- Company Name
- Major League Soccer
- Job Title
- Director, Events
- Job Description
-
Job Title: Director, Events
Role Summary: Lead strategic planning, execution, and optimization of MLS and SUM public-facing and internal events, ensuring brand consistency, fan engagement, and partner activation across high‑profile sporting events. Manage a team of event producers, cross‑departmental stakeholders, and external agencies/vendors while controlling budgets and delivering meticulous event operations.
Expactations: Deliver flawless execution of flagship MLS events (All‑Star, Cup, Rivalry Week, etc.) and global SUM initiatives; maintain cost efficiency and competitive pricing; grow fan and sponsor satisfaction metrics; mentor team members to high performance; adapt quickly to evolving event requirements and market trends.
Key Responsibilities:
• Supervise and develop a team of three event producers, setting clear goals, coaching, and professional growth.
• Own end‑to‑end planning of MLS All‑Star and MLS Cup, coordinating internal stakeholders through goal‑setting, development, and delivery phases.
• Oversee planning and operational excellence for all public‑facing MLS/SUM events, ensuring brand alignment and fan experience quality.
• Design and implement event programming with a focus on commercial activations, fan engagement, and social responsibility.
• Manage full event portfolio budgets: forecasting, reconciliation, cost‑efficiency strategies, and financial control.
• Establish and maintain event processes, tools, templates, and documentation (timelines, overviews, executive recaps).
• Build and manage agency/vendor relationships, leading RFPs, contract negotiations, and deliverable oversight.
• Serve as primary liaison across departments, ensuring clear communication, alignment, and seamless execution.
• Conduct site visits, planning meetings, and on‑site leadership for flawless event delivery.
• Support senior leadership with strategic input for large‑scale MLS events.
• Travel 6‑10 days for marquee events; work long hours including weekends during peak periods.
Required Skills:
• Proven leadership in managing and developing high‑performing teams.
• Deep experience in large‑scale event operations, budgeting, vendor/agency management, and contract negotiation.
• Ability to integrate brand and partner activations within complex event environments.
• Strong cross‑functional collaboration, communication, and “manage up” capabilities.
• Expertise in project management, organizational discipline, and detail orientation.
• Demonstrated success in scaling recurring events to drive revenue, attendance, and experiential satisfaction.
• Decision‑making, problem‑solving, and agility in fast‑paced, high‑pressure settings.
• Mentoring skills fostering growth and accountability.
• Willingness to travel extensively and work extended hours during events.
Required Education & Certifications:
• Bachelor’s degree (preferred).