Manager, Events

The Manager, Events will support the Events team with the planning, project management and production of all MLS events, including MLS All-Star, MLS Cup, Heineken Rivalry Week.

The role will also support the team by leading various media events (e.g., expansion market announcements, press conferences) and community / pro-social events hosted by MLS WORKS and MLS’ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion group.

Primary Responsibilities

• Plan and produce MLS public facing events (concerts, interactive fan areas, festivals, media events, community events, panels etc.); coordinating all event details, being responsible for internal alignment and approval processes.
• Manage programming development across existing and new MLS events.
• Oversee creative concept integration into all event plans.
• Handle event contacts, timelines and key documents for public facing events.
• Develop event overview documents and recap documents for all MLS events.
• Build and maintain relationships with production agencies and creative/design agencies (RFP/bid process and general communication).
• Vet qualified agencies and contractors using a detailed RFP process and award projects accordingly.
• Oversee all site visits and coordinate event planning meetings.
• Negotiate vendor contracts.
• Coordinate with other departments to confirm deliverables.
• Oversee any agency deliverables.
• Lead event budget forecasts and reconciliation process and work with internal contacts to compile all cost elements. Coordinate all invoices, billing and reconciliation associated with the event.
• Provide additional department support during the planning and execution of big events.
• Administrative duties such as general correspondence, files, and archive maintenance.

Additional Responsibilities

• Additional responsibilities as assigned

Education And Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree
• 5+ years of experience in event, agency and/or sponsorship activation

Required Skills And Expectations

• Understanding of best-in-class industry and event trends.
• Analytical thinker, self-motivated, organized, flexible and a proven problem solver and decision-maker.

• Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines with minimal supervision Superior written and oral communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate, both written and verbally.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast paced, team environment with strict deadlines.
• High level of commitment to quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity and compliance.
• Strong contract negotiation and event management skills.
• Experience working with and handling production and creative agencies.
• Some physical labor related to the set-up and breakdown of events.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Ability to travel (up to 10 days at a time) and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of the sport of soccer
• Experience working on a premier big event planning team (e.g. Super Bowl, Final Four, Grammy’s, etc.)
• Ability to create & handle budgets without supervision
• Cross-functional project management experience

Total Rewards

Starting Base Salary $75,000 - $85,000. MLS/SUM base salaries are contingent upon several factors including individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs.

We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent through the following:

Benefits – comprehensive and competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits, as well as a suite of programs to promote well-being including a $500 Wellness Reimbursement. A generous PTO offering, and hybrid Office/Remote Work Schedule are also offered to promote Work-Life balance!

Career & Professional Development – on the job training, feedback, and on-going educational opportunities to continue your personal and professional development.

Employee Engagement – office perks, discounts and employee events that go “beyond the traditional paycheck” to make you feel a part of our team and inspire you to elevate the Game!

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.