Senior Director, Match Business

Job Summary

The Senior Director, Match Business oversees the creation, planning, promotion, delivery, and overall match business operations for SUM events, including tournament planning/development, regional relationships, and venue contacts. This role also serves as a primary connection point between internal departments and manages the sales & promotion plan for all events.

Responsibilities

• Lead event business operations to maximize revenue and business opportunities across all SUM events
• Develop long-term match business plans considering marketplace opportunities for both SUM/MLS and MLS clubs with a focus on business and fan growth
• Assume Match Business P&L responsibility for all SUM/MLS events including Mexican National Team U.S. Tour, Concacaf events, and other assigned tournaments or events
• Build and maintain positive and productive relationships with MLS clubs, stadiums, municipal stakeholders and local host committees to optimize event placement and revenue opportunities
• Work closely with internal departments (Properties, Marketing, Content/Digital, Media, Partners, PR/Communications, Ticketing etc.) to manage the overall sales & promotion plan for all events, and ensure goals and revenue targets are met/exceeded
• Manage and develop one direct report, annual contract employees, and multiple full-time agencies
• Manage and develop one direct report, annual contract employees, and multiple full-time agencies
• Work closely with Property Managers (internal Concacaf, FMF, and Liga MX leads) to ensure delivery for property clients from a business, brand and opportunity perspective
• Maintain relationships with key industry contacts including agencies, clubs, Federations and ticketing companies to ensure continued innovation and evolution of the business
• Lead the development of a process and workflow to organize friendly matches for MLS clubs throughout the year, serving as the League stakeholder on identifying and connecting opportunities
• Drive team performance by setting clear expectations, coaching and counseling employees, establishing procedures and productivity standards, and fostering employee growth and development

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• 10+ years of experience organizing and promoting international sports and entertainment events
• Strong knowledge of the international and domestic soccer landscape
• Possess strategic and innovative mindset, excellent communication skills, and the ability to direct multiple team members
• Experience developing cross-functional marketing & ticket sales plans for sporting events
• Familiarity with the parameters of booking events, venue operations, and an understanding of the facility management industry
• Experience in contract development, negotiation, and execution
• Experience managing production and creative agencies
• Strong executive presence with experience working directly with C-Level Executives
• Excellent people skills, with an ability to interact effectively in a professional and diplomatic manner with internal and external clients at all levels
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and use upmost discretion when privy to sensitive information
• Resourceful, quick learner with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, team environment
• High level of commitment to quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity, compliance, promptness and timeliness
• Demonstrated decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Flexible with the ability to adapt to change when necessary
• Knowledge of US Sports landscape and connections with North American sporting venues
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point
• Able to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Benefits

Total Rewards package includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a $500 wellness reimbursement, and generous Holiday and PTO schedule to promote work-life balance. On-the-job training, feedback, and ongoing educational opportunities are also available. Employees are required to work from an MLS office at least four days a week, but can work remotely on Fridays, along with the option to take up to two additional remote flex days each month. Major League Soccer is an equal opportunity employer and committed to providing a safe and inclusive workplace for all employees.