Manager, Operational and Client Planning, FIFA World Cup 2026

Sitting within the Strategy and Planning Department, Planning and Integration (along with Government Relations, Host City Management, Human Rights, Sustainability and Venue Business Strategy) aims to deliver the most engaging, innovative, and accessible World Cup experience for all players, fans, partners, and the community.

Reporting organizationally to the Head of Operational and Client Planning, the Operational & Client Planning Manager is responsible for managing the delivery of integrated planning activities for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and supports the development of the operational capability in USA, CAN and MEX, by ensuring that planning activities take place in the right order, at the right time, with the right pace and the right people.

THE POSITION

The main responsibilities of the Operational and Client Planning Manager include:
• Develop and maintain a consistent approach to Tournament Operational planning including operating concepts and Tournament Function plans
• Develop methods to integrate client experience requirements with function & venue planning, and operational readiness so that each work stream can be adequately prepared and tested
• Develop end-to-end client journeys working with internal and external stakeholders
• Capture client group service levels and priorities between client owners and relevant stakeholders
• Work in with Venue leads to ensure alignment of function plans with venue plans
• Co-ordinate the development of Tournament-wide policies and procedures
• Work with Functional Areas in USA, CAN and MEX to ensure a consistent approach in relation to the client experience and service levels at stadiums and non-competition venues
• Provide reporting and updates to Function leads and senior leadership on progress and issues as required
• During the Tournament, the role will transition into day-to-day management of the Tournament Headquarters/Main Operations Centre and all aspects related to the resolution of issues

YOUR PROFILE

• Bachelor’s Degree or similar level of higher education in business, project management or a related field
• A minimum experience of 3 years in managing complex projects/operations at the national and/or international level
• A comprehensive knowledge of major event management and event operational functions
• Experience in stakeholder management and integration
• Experience developing, communicating and implementing actionable, succinct operational plans
• Experienced in the development and implementation of contingency plans
• Ability to identify key operational decisions that need to be made, design improved policies and plans and identify dependencies and constraints that impact on-going decision making
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and under pressure
• High level of presentation and communication skills
• Fluent in English. Spanish and/or French proficiency is a plus
• Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio & Project) and planning software and online collaboration tools

About FWC2026

The FIFA World Cup 26™ will mark the first time that the tournament features 48 teams and will be hosted by three countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

This new format redefines excellence, generating unique opportunities for greater participation and engagement from fans and players in North America and all over the world. Now is your time to be a game changer and join the workforce that is planning and delivering this unique and unforgettable experience.