Launched in 2022 by Major League Soccer, MLS NEXT Pro is a professional men’s soccer league in the United States and Canada that completes the pro player pathway. MLS NEXT Pro continues to grow the game through innovation and diversity, bringing professional soccer to new communities and creating global opportunities both on and off the field.  MLS NEXT Pro recently concluded its second season in 2023 with 27 teams, all affiliated with MLS clubs.  Seven were new to MLS NEXT Pro in 2023: Atlanta United 2, Austin FC II, Crown Legacy FC (Charlotte FC), Huntsville City FC (Nashville SC), LA Galaxy II, Los Angeles Football Club 2 and New York Red Bulls II. Additional MLS-affiliated and independent clubs will join in the years ahead, including Carolina Core FC in 2024 and Cleveland in 2025.  The majority of MLS NEXT Pro matches are available to watch live and on-demand on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app as part of the groundbreaking partnership between Apple and MLS. For more information about MLS NEXT Pro, visit mlsnextpro.com

Reports To

VP, Competition MLS NEXT Pro

Position Summary

The Director will be responsible for leading all aspects of match day operations League-wide, including but not limited to match operations and stadium operations. In addition, they will manage the planning, coordination, and logistics of league special competitions, such as international matches and/or tournaments. This role also directs the security operations of the league ensuring all matches are properly staffed and that all fans have a safe match experience.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist clubs in their operational launch, ensuring adherence to the league standards set forth in the league documents (e.g. Venue Design Standards, Competition & Operations Manual, etc.)
• Staff and coordinate the schedule for the new League Command Center in New York City during the League Season, working alongside other stakeholders (e.g. Competition, Communications and Broadcasting).
• Review in-stadium and game related incidents throughout the season and playoffs.
• Assume primary match and stadium operations lead towards execution of new league Special Events (All-Star, Conference Championships, Cup).
• Liaise with selected host venues to ensure all stadium and match operations required meet the necessary and requested staffing levels.
• Oversee Event Guide preparation and communication with key internal and external stakeholders.
• Oversee the development and upkeep of all Operations policies and manuals.
• Handle the hiring and onboarding process by interviewing, selecting, orienting, and training part-time employees (Event Observers, Consultants).
• Management of weather service and proactive communication regarding any potential weather delays with league partner DTN
• Oversight of team travel and accommodations with league partner STM
• Develop personal growth opportunities for directly supervised employees.

Manager Responsibilities

• Manage hiring and onboarding process by interviewing, selecting, orienting, and training employees
• Accomplish team results by communicating job expectations and managing the Performance Management process:
  • Plan, monitor, and review performance;
  • Coach and counsel employees;
  • Develop and implement department procedures and productivity standards and reinforce Company policies
• Develop personal growth opportunities for employees

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management or a related field
• 10+ years of experience in event management for sporting events

Required Skills

• Superior organization, project management skills and attention to detail.
• High level of commitment to quality of work and organizational ethics, integrity, and compliance.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast paced, team environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate, both written and verbally.
• Proficiency in Office.
• Demonstrate decision making and problem-solving skills.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Ability to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work remotely.
• Communication skills and a confidence to present verbal and written presentations and briefings to both internal and external key stakeholders.
• Experience in managing staff and budgets.

Desired Skills

• 2 years’ experience at major sporting facility or club
• Knowledge of the sport of soccer
• Knowledge of the Spanish Language (business proficiency)

Starting Base Salary: $115,000 - $150,000. MLS/SUM base salaries are contingent upon several factors including individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs.

We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent through the following:

• Benefits – comprehensive and competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits, as well as a suite of programs to promote well-being including a $500 Wellness Reimbursement! A generous PTO offering, and hybrid Office/Remote Work Schedule are also offered to promote Work-Life balance.
• Career & Professional Development – on the job training, feedback, and on-going educational opportunities to continue your personal and professional development.
• Employee Engagement – office perks, discounts and employee events that go “beyond the traditional paycheck” to make you feel a part of our team and inspire you to elevate the Game!

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.