Senior Manager of Matchday Experiences

JOB TITLE: Senior Manager of Matchday Experiences 

CLUB: Seattle Sounders FC & Seattle Reign FC 

DEPARTMENT:  Fan Engagement 

REPORTS TO:   Director of Fan Engagement 

TYPE: Full-Time 

FLSA:  Exempt 

ROLE: 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 Senior Manager of Matchday Experiences oversees the planning and execution of matchday experiences and events for Sounders FC and Reign FC, as well as private and special club events. This role requires a creative, detail-oriented, and organized leader capable of innovative thinking to bring event plans for both small-scale and large-scale events to fruition that drive organizational outcomes. 

The role includes managing a team of two full-time Coordinators, part-time seasonal resources, and external vendors. The ideal candidate will excel in leading diverse teams, ensuring alignment with the club’s brand, mission, and goals. They will work collaboratively across departments, including Marketing, Ticket Sales and Service, Corporate Partnerships, RAVE Foundation, Fan Development and Impact, and People and Culture, to produce impactful events that drive business outcomes. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Event management and execution 

• In conjunction with Director of Fan Engagement, oversee matchday experience strategy and vision for Sounders FC and Reign FC; incorporate fan feedback and insights to drive fan experience and organizational outcomes.  

• Oversee the execution of the matchday experience and identify fan experience efficiencies for Sounders FC and Reign FC matchdays which could include pre-match experiences, meet and greets, concerts, fan zones, etc 

• Continuously evaluate and improve the matchday experience to align with brand mission and drive tangible club outcomes 

• Work cross-functionally with internal departments and external stakeholders to align and enhance fan experiences and activations with matchday fan engagement strategies 

• Conduct pre and post matchday meetings to evaluate outcomes; implementing opportunities to improve fan engagement outcomes on matchday​ 

• In collaboration with Director of Fan Engagement, collaborate on matchday experience budgets 

• Development of event run of shows, floor plans and layouts to ensure operational excellence, driving business outcomes and compelling event experiences 

• Stay informed about industry trends and best practices in event management, fan engagement, and live entertainment. 

Team Leadership and Management 

• Supervise, mentor, and develop any full and part time matchday event staff. fostering a high-performing, collaborative team culture. 

• Manage season-long matchday assistant program to support matchday operations, ensuring proper training and resource allocation. 

• Provide clear direction and guidance to all team members, holding them accountable for performance and project outcomes. 

• Create and manage staffing plans for matchdays and events, optimizing resources and ensuring seamless execution. 

Vendor and Performer management: 

• Manage relationships with vendors and contractors, ensuring alignment with club expectations, operational standards, and organizational goals. 

• Collaborate with Legal and People and Culture teams to hire matchday performers such as DJs, emcees, and bands. 

• Maintain and develop a roster of approved vendors and agencies, with input from the Director of Matchday Experiences and Events. 

• Act as the main liaison for matchday vendors, event staff, and performers, ensuring seamless communication and coordination.  

• Manage vendor relationships by overseeing load-in/out schedules, rental orders, and event floorplans for all activities. 

Other duties as assigned in support of our organization and affiliated clubs. 

QUALIFICATIONS  

• Proven success in organizing and leading events in live entertainment or sports, managing both large- and small-scale productions. 

• Strong leadership experience managing full-time and part-time staff and coordinating with external vendors. 

• Meticulous attention to detail with excellent time management skills to prioritize and meet deadlines in fast-paced environments. 

• Creative problem-solver with a history of developing and executing innovative event concepts. 

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, engaging effectively with internal teams, stakeholders, and fans. 

• Skilled at developing and implementing high-level event strategies with innovative thinking. 

• Proficient in multitasking and staying composed under pressure while maintaining focus on objectives. 

• Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fully embodying organizational values and the Mission to Create Moments, Enrich Lives, and Unify and Uplift Through Soccer, with a demonstrated record of advocating these principles in every interaction. 

• Expertise in resource organization, inventory management, and delivering exceptional customer experiences. 

• Familiar with budgeting and financial oversight for event planning and execution. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT   

• This role requires regular on-site presence at our Headquarters & Training Facility in Renton, WA and at Reign FC and Sounders FC matches at Lumen Field, as part of a hybrid work arrangement. 

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. 

• Must be able to facilitate own local travel to events in the greater Seattle region. 

• Must reside within Washington state upon date of hire. 

• 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 - $100,000. 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. 

Salary : $80,000 - $100,000