Director of Matchday Operations

JOB TITLE: Director of Matchday Operations

CLUBS: Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Reign FC

DEPARTMENT: Matchday Operations

REPORTS TO: Chief Impact & Fan Engagement Officer

TYPE: Full-Time Regular

FLSA: Exempt

TYPE: People Manager

                                                                                                                                                                     

OUR CLUBS

Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Reign FC are two clubs with a shared legacy of excellence on and off the pitch. Our clubs are committed to high performance by fostering a dynamic and inclusive culture focused on transformational impact in our business and the community. We strive to challenge standard paradigms and practices to create better outcomes that fuel growth individually and collectively. We produce live experiences that bring together our community, celebrating our resilience, inclusivity, and a commitment to excellence. United in professional dedication- we are two clubs with one shared vision of progress and opportunity.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Matchday Operations is responsible for leading and optimizing all aspects of matchday execution, ensuring seamless operations, fan engagement, and a world-class stadium experience. This role plays a critical part in driving attendance growth and long-term fan loyalty through meticulously planned and flawlessly executed matchday logistics.

We seek an experienced operational leader with expertise in stadium logistics, live event execution, and cross-functional team collaboration. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and proactive problem solver who excels in fast-paced environments. They will have a deep understanding of matchday operations as a key driver of organizational success.

This role requires an exceptional project manager with strong communication skills, capable of coordinating across internal and external stakeholders to create an unmatched matchday atmosphere. The Director will also implement data-driven decision-making to optimize processes, enhance operational efficiencies, and maintain compliance with safety regulations and league policies.

This role oversees all aspects of matchday operations for MLS, NWSL, MLS Next Pro, friendlies, CONCACAF matches, and other tournaments, ensuring a seamless, exciting, and safe environment for fans, players, partners, and stakeholders.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Matchday Operations Leadership:

• Lead the planning, execution and continuous improvement of matchday operations across NWSL, MLS, MLSNP and all other leagues and tournaments.
• Develop and implement fan-first strategies to enhance the overall in-stadium experience, ensuring seamless, engaging, and high-energy matchdays that drive repeat attendance.
• Partner with Chief Integration Officer on scheduling for Sounders FC, Reign FC and Defiance, ensuring alignment with league and club priorities.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all matchday-related logistics, ensuring alignment with club objectives, league requirements, and stakeholder expectations.
• Manage matchday needs (home and away) for Reign and Sounders supporter groups.

Cross Departmental & Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Work closely with stadium operators, security teams, league officials, supporter groups, vendors, and city officials to deliver seamless event execution.
• Represent the club in key external stakeholder meetings related to stadium operations.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to create an engaging and inclusive matchday atmosphere.
• Support new hire orientation and staff training to ensure all staff are aligned on standards and priorities.

Safety Compliance:

• Develop and enforce matchday safety protocols, risk management procedures, and emergency response strategies in compliance with league regulations and local laws.
• Oversee the credential system to ensure proper access control, security compliance, and efficient operations for matchday staff, media, and vendors in alignment with safety protocols and league regulations.
• Utilize technology and data analytics, including AI, to improve stadium operations, crowd flow, and overall fan experience.
• Conduct post-match debriefs and implement continuous improvement strategies to enhance efficiency, guest services, and fan engagement.
• Develop contingency plans and emergency response strategies to uphold safety and risk management standards.

Team Leadership & Budget Management:

• Lead, mentor and manage the matchday operations team, ensuring high performance, and high employee engagement and satisfaction.
• Oversee and manage the matchday operations budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness while maintaining high execution standards.

 

QUALIFICATIONS   

• Proven experience in event operations, stadium management, or matchday operations within professional sports, entertainment, or large-scale event settings.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage teams, vendors, and cross-functional stakeholders effectively.
• Deep understanding of matchday logistics, security, stadium operations, and fan engagement strategies.
• Strong financial acumen, with a track record of managing large-scale operational budgets.
• Ability to lead inclusively, fostering a workplace where all team members feel valued and empowered.
• High emotional intelligence with the ability to build strong relationships and effectively manage conflict.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a gritty, solutions-oriented approach to operational challenges.
• Outstanding communication skills, including the ability to work with senior executives, league officials, and supporter groups.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment with the ability to adapt and pivot as needed.
• Strong proficiency in event technology, data analytics, and event management software is preferred.
• Passion for soccer, fan culture, and delivering a best in class matchday experience.

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT   

• This is a hybrid position, working from the Clubhouse in Renton, WA and attending matches at the club’s various facilities in market, and traveling to other club facilities as needed.
• Must be able to work non-traditional hours including holidays, nights and weekends depending on match and event schedule.
• Must reside within Washington state upon date of hire.
• Must be able to facilitate own local travel.
• Must be eligible to work in the US without sponsorship.
• Responsibilities include regular work outdoors and may require standing on feet for long periods of time, as well as some lifting of up to 20 pounds.

 

COMPENSATION, BENEFITS & PERKS

We offer competitive compensation and an engaging, supportive environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of our people by providing the following top-notch benefits.

The annual salary range for this position is $80,000 - $125,000 and eligible for bonus opportunity. Base pay at time of offer will take into account job-related knowledge, skills and experience required for the role, internal equity and market.

Our Total Rewards package for full-time team members includes:

• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage: We offer 100% employer-sponsored premiums for you and your dependents.
• Generous and Flexible PTO: Our Paid Time Off plan is designed with your well-being in mind, offering unlimited paid vacation.
• Retirement Planning Support: 401(k) retirement plan matching, helping you secure your financial future with ease.
• Inclusive Parental Leave: Our gender-neutral parental leave program provides 12-16 weeks of paid leave, giving new parents the time and support they need during this important life stage.
• Exclusive Perks: Enjoy complimentary tickets to matches, making it easier for you to experience the excitement firsthand.
• Continuous Growth Opportunities: We invest in your learning and development through various programs and resources.
• Community Engagement: We provide a variety of volunteer opportunities that align with our social impact goals and RAVE Foundation initiatives, empowering you to make a meaningful difference in the Seattle community.

 

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every employee is respected, valued and supported. We celebrate our diverse work environment and welcome team members of all backgrounds and perspectives. To that end, if you do not meet every job requirement listed, we still encourage you to apply. We believe your relevant experience and expertise will help us become a high-performing best-in-class workplace for all. Women, gender-nonbinary, people of color, LGBTQIA+ people and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The physical demands reflected in the duties and work environment herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. If you’d like to request an accommodation in the application or interview process, please do so by emailing the People & Culture Team.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.

 

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