What are the responsibilities and job description for the Business Operations Coordinator position at WNBA Portland?
ABOUT PORTLAND WNBA:
Professional women’s basketball is returning to Rip City. On September 18, 2024, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) awarded Portland its 15th franchise, bringing the league back to the city for the first time in over two decades. Owned and operated by the Bhathal family through RAJ Sports, the team will make its official debut in 2026 at the Moda Center.
Portland is cementing itself as the epicenter of women’s sports, powered by a passionate fan base and a rich basketball culture. At Portland WNBA, we’re building more than a team, we’re creating a modern, inclusive, and community-driven organization from the ground up. With innovation, integrity, and excellence at our core, our mission is to set a new standard in women’s professional basketball - delivering excellence on the court, inspiring fans, and serving the city we call home.
As we prepare for our inaugural season, we’re looking for passionate, driven professionals to help shape the future of this franchise and the future of the game.
THE ROLE:
The Business Operations Coordinator plays a vital role in the day-to-day execution of team business functions and cross-departmental coordination. This role blends operational execution, executive support, and cross-functional coordination across all departments including marketing, partnerships, ticketing, community engagement, and game-day execution.
The Business Operations Coordinator plays a vital role in the day-to-day execution of team business functions and cross-departmental coordination. This role blends operational execution, executive support, and cross-functional coordination across all departments including marketing, partnerships, ticketing, community engagement, and game-day execution.
This is an opportunity to be part of building a world-class women’s professional basketball organization from the ground up.
WHAT YOU’LL BE UP TO:
- Provide operational support to the front office staff and act as a central point of contact for internal communication and coordination.
- Provide administrative support to the executive team, including calendar management, meeting coordination, preparation of agendas, notes, or follow-ups, and expense reports.
- Support planning and execution of team events, including game day logistics, press conferences, and community initiatives.
- Coordinate and track departmental projects and timelines to ensure alignment and accountability.
- Assist with managing internal systems, documentation, and processes to streamline business operations.
- Liaise with ticketing, partnerships, marketing, and community departments to help execute activations and support initiatives.
- Support the development and maintenance of internal reporting tools and dashboards to track key metrics.
- Collaborate with facilities and game-day operations to support smooth team execution during home games and special events.
- Maintain a positive, proactive, and solutions-oriented attitude in a fast-paced, start-up environment.
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE ON OUR TEAM:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Sports Management, Communications, or related field or equivalent experience.
- 1-3 years of experience in business operations, event coordination, or administrative support – sports or entertainment experience preferred.
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Comfortable working cross-functionality and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- Comfortable with a flexible schedule that may include evenings, weekends, and home game days.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and collaborative tools like Asana, Trello, or Slack.
- Passionate about women’s sports and committed to helping build an inclusive, values-driven organization.
BENEFITS:
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives, $59K - $65K
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- Dynamic, collaborative and fun work environment
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the growth of women's basketball
Ready to Be a Game Changer in Portland? Apply Now!
If you’re ready to shape the future of Portland’s newest WNBA team, we want to hear from you. Join us as we make history—on and off the court.
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter outlining how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate for this role.
Portland WNBA is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
About Portland WNBA Ownership, RAJ Sports:
RAJ Sports, led by Alex Bhathal and Lisa Bhathal Merage, focuses on investment opportunities in sports and sports-related properties, drawing on the Bhathal family’s multi-generational experience and relationships in the industry. The firm seeks to leverage the power of sports to affect broader social and economic change through a variety of business and philanthropic strategies. Its deep experience in professional sports operations and large-scale real estate developments that create thriving community centers, positions the firm to deliver valuable assets that will support further growth for the players, staff, and fans. In 2013, the Bhathal family became investors in the Sacramento Kings (NBA); subsequently building the platform to include the Sacramento RiverCats (MiLB), Stockton Kings (NBA G-League) and several sports anchored real estate developments. The 2024 acquisitions of Portland Thorns (NWSL) and the WNBA Portland expansion team represents a milestone for the city of Portland and places it at the epicenter of growth for women’s sports
