Sr. Manager, Venue Operations - Doping Control

LA28 is the independent, non-profit, privately funded organizing committee for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. We are on a singular mission to create an Olympic and Paralympic Games that celebrate all that this city and country have to offer, delivering an unparalleled experience for athletes, fans, partners and our community.

The 2028 Games mark the return of the Summer Games to the U.S. for the first time in 32 years and Los Angeles’ third time hosting an Olympic Games and first time welcoming the Paralympic Games. This presents the unique and exciting opportunity to celebrate our legacy with the Games and push the Olympic and Paralympic Movements forward, writing a new chapter of Games history in Los Angeles.

Putting on an Olympic and Paralympic Games is a team sport. To build a Games unlike any the world has seen before, we need the best team in place–a team full of diverse perspectives, experiences and expertise. We are guided by the following set of values and behaviors–optimism, integrity, excellence, inclusion, co-creation and boldness–and look forward to hearing about how your past experiences align with them.

Senior Manager, Venue Operations - Doping Control

The Senior Manager, Venue Operations - Doping Control will support the planning and Games-time execution of anti-doping operations for the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Reporting to the Head of Doping Control, this role will be primarily responsible for leading a team of Venue Operations Associates who operate clusters of venues, overseeing the smooth execution of all Doping Control Stations and activities. The Senior Manager will also directly manage the crucial relationships with the Olympic and Paralympic Villages.

A key component of this role involves spearheading resource development, designing/refining comprehensive training modules, operational playbooks, scenario-based drills, and standardized protocols. This ensures that the Doping Control Staff are fully equipped and empowered to navigate fast-paced environments and seamlessly execute all Doping Control activities.

The role will collaborate cross-functionally with Games Delivery and Services/Logistics functions (e.g., Accreditation, Transportation, Medical, Workforce, Logistics, etc.), as well as external partners including Testing Agencies, National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOs), and IFs.

Venue Operations Leadership & Team Management

• Serve as the primary operational lead for all Doping Control activities within the Olympic and Paralympic Villages, managing the unique logistical requirements.
• Lead, manage, and mentor a team of Venue Operations Associates responsible for Doping Control activities across multiple venue clusters.
• Develop and implement comprehensive training programs for the Venue Operations team to ensure consistent, high-quality execution of all procedures.
• Oversee the development of policies, procedures, and operational documentation for Doping Control Station delivery.
• Participate in readiness exercises and test event delivery to validate operational plans and identify areas for improvement.
• Lead the planning and execution of the operational transition between the Olympic and Paralympic Games, ensuring continuity of service, efficient handover of resources, and appropriate staff adjustments.

 Doping Control Operations

• Lead the development/refinement of Doping Control specific content to cover technical procedures for Doping Control Stations, such as venue setup, athlete notification and processing, sample collection protocols, chain of custody rules, documentation, and more.
• Support the planning and delivery of doping control operations across all competition and training venues.
• Spearhead the strategic design, development, or edits of operational resources for venue teams, including comprehensive training modules, operational playbooks, and standardized protocols to ensure consistent and excellent service delivery.
• Manage communication processes for resolving operational issues and serve as a primary point of escalation for the venue teams.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Collaborate with other functional areas to integrate doping control requirements into competition schedules and venue operations.
• Assist in working across functions to ensure alignment of doping control services with accreditation, transport, workforce, and accommodation planning.
• Assist in developing presentations, reports, and tracking documents related to anti-doping readiness and delivery.
• Represent the Doping Control venue team in cross-functional planning meetings, ensuring the unique needs of the operations are addressed in all deliverables.

Background and Requirements

• A minimum of 6 years of experience working in relevant roles in the sports and/or event management industry, preferably in anti-doping operations.
• Experience working on major Games delivery within a sport organization, local organizing committee, or at a multi-sport event.
• Knowledge of the World Anti-Doping Code, International Standards (ISTI), and anti-doping operations for major international events is desired.
• Strong understanding of the structure, governance, and culture of Olympic and Paralympic sport, including familiarity with National Anti-Doping Organizations and International Federations.
• Ability to lead diverse teams with empathy, professionalism, and a commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Excellent analytical, planning, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines.
• Highly detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and follow-through.
• Comfortable working cross-functionally and communicating with a wide range of internal and external partners.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to respond quickly to operational needs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and collaboration tools (e.g., SharePoint).
• Self-starter with the ability to anticipate needs and proactively support team operations.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and judgment; able to handle confidential information and pressure with professionalism.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Based in Los Angeles with required in-person attendance.
• Availability to work extended hours, including evenings and weekends, particularly during Games-time.
• Some travel may be required for venue operations and coordination.
• Open-plan office environment requiring focus, adaptability, and collaboration.
• Perform other duties as required; the role will evolve over time and will include operational responsibilities during the Olympic and Paralympic Games. 

Education

• Bachelor’s degree required or equivalent work experience.
• Certification or formal training in anti-doping operations from a recognized institution (e.g. WADA, IOC, IPC, ITA, or NADO programs) preferred but not required.

Expectations

• Ideal candidate will have knowledge and experience of working on major international sports events (ideally Olympic and/or Paralympic Games) as well as a background in sport and/or anti-doping operations.   
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to operational excellence.
• Ability to remain organized and composed under pressure during Games-time execution.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative and team-first mindset.
• Strong project management skills, including deadline tracking and strategic planning.
• Culturally aware and globally minded; values diverse perspectives and inclusive approaches.
• Willingness to take on a wide range of tasks and support the Doping Control team as needed.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver high-quality work within tight deadlines.
• We welcome applications from qualified candidates worldwide and encourage individuals from diverse geographic, cultural, and professional backgrounds to apply.

The annual base salary range for this position is $115,000.00 - $140,000.00. The pay scale provided is the range that LA28 reasonably expects to pay as starting base compensation for this role. All LA28 compensation remains subject to final determination based on individual candidate qualifications, experience, or other reasonable criteria consistent with LA28’s operational business needs and applicable law.

LA28 does not provide relocation assistance.

 LA28 is committed to fair and unbiased recruitment procedures allowing all applicants an equal opportunity for employment, free from discrimination on the basis of religion, race, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, color, ethnic or national origin, or any other classification as may be protected by applicable law. LA28 will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance and all applicable laws. We strive to build a team that is inclusive and encourage qualified candidates of all backgrounds, perspectives, and identities to apply. We assess applications based on relevant skills, education, and experience a candidate can add to our team.