Special Events Manager
Special Events Manager
ABOUT FIFA WORLD CUP™ BOSTON 2026
FIFA World Cup™ Boston 26 (Boston 26) is the host city organizing committee leading the strategic planning and execution of the seven matches of the FIFA World Cup 26™ awarded to Boston, including the official celebratory events taking place over a 39-day period surrounding the tournament in June/July 2026. We aim to create and deliver memorable and safe experiences that promote the region. As a non-profit organization, we are committed to creating sustainable and positive economic and social impact for all communities.
For more information, visit us at www.BostonFWC26.com and on Instagram @FWC26Boston.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
The Special Events Manager will be responsible for the management, planning, and delivery of all events by Boston 26; outside of the seven matches and FIFA Fan Festival / Fan activities.
Location: | Onsite in Foxborough, MA with frequent local travel and occasional regional travel. |
Type/Term: | Exempt, full-time, 40hrs/wk. through late Summer - early Fall 2026 when position would end. Hours will increase around tournament time. Must be comfortable with the potential of working occasional nights and/or weekends if required (but not a standard). |
Applicant Eligibility: | Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without visa or sponsorship, and must be within reasonable commuting distance of Foxborough, MA. |
Reports to: | Chief Marketing & Communications Officer |
Salary Range: | $105-115k annually; depending on experience |
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Under the direction of the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, the Special Events Manager will also work closely with the Executive Office, Commercial team, Government Relations and Protocol team, and the Operations team to plan and deliver all elements of a series of special events due to be hosted by Boston 26.
- Lead the planning, logistics, financial management and operational delivery of the events. These events will vary in size and scale, but many will be high-profile and involve senior executives, elected government officials, celebrities and distinguished guests from Boston, across the wider New England region, as well as internationally.
Support the design and lead the execution of an events portfolio which supports Boston 26’s objectives in terms of engagement with multiple stakeholder groups and promotion of Boston 26 and the seven matches being hosted in Boston.
Negotiate contracts with venues, suppliers and service providers to secure the best rates and contract terms and conditions.
Oversee all aspects of event logistics, including venue selection, food and beverage, invitation and client management, access, security and any gifting.
Coordinate guest and VIP arrivals, security protocols, and departures to ensure a fully integrated, end-to-end client experience, which meets service standards to which high-profile individuals are accustomed.
Collaborate with and integrate all suppliers involved in event delivery, ensuring there are clearly defined roles and responsibilities, from a contractual and operational delivery standpoint to achieve seamless execution.
Manage the events portfolio within the allocated budget ensuring efficient allocation of resources while maintaining appropriate quality standards.
Act as the liaison and point of contact between VIP clients and their teams to ensure clear communication at all stages of planning and delivery, integrating with service providers as appropriate.
Maintain the highest standards of professionalism and integrity when dealing with sensitive information and high-profile clients.
At event-time, oversee load-in and load-out, including scoping, ordering and logistics relating to branded assets, such as pop-ups, equipment, and merchandise, and gifting.
Coordinate any media, photographers, and / or PR agencies as directed by the communications team both before and during the events, as required.
Other job-related duties as assigned.
WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
7+ years of relevant work experience in corporate or VIP event planning and management, or high-end hospitality.
Demonstrated experience managing events for high-profile individuals, C-suite executives and/or celebrities with the ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and discretion. Managing a VIP client group within a large-scale event (i.e., CEOs attending the Olympics) highly preferred.
Experience working with multiple stakeholders, agencies and event delivery partners.
Exceptional organizational skills with keen attention to detail and high-quality standards.
Strong experience in operational event delivery, including an understanding of all components of the end-to-end client experience.
Excellent negotiation and contract / vendor management skills.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to remain calm when dealing with challenging client-facing situations.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Strong work ethic and ability to be self-motivated and independently produce work to completion.
An excellent team player with proven ability to effectively collaborate with others and maintain strong relationships is a must.
A strong sense of creativity and a comfort level with sharing ideas.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel & PowerPoint.
Sports industry experience preferred.
Please Note: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without visa or sponsorship, and must be within reasonable commuting distance of Foxborough, MA.
WORK EXPECTATIONS:
Full-time, onsite, 40hr per week role that may require occasional evening and weekend work. Local and regional travel is expected on occasion.
This role is estimated to conclude in late Summer / early Fall of 2026.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
The compensation range is competitive and commensurate with lived and professional experience, and includes access to:
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
3 weeks paid vacation, plus 12 paid company holidays annually. Hybrid work opportunities.
401(k) retirement savings plan with 3% dollar for dollar company match, plus 50% of elective deferrals that exceed 3%, but do not exceed 5%. Elective deferrals & matches may begin upon hire.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Company-paid life insurance.
Flexible work environment.
Opportunities for professional development and growth in the major events security and international sports industry.
Boston 26 is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of our personnel processes are based solely on a person’s merit and qualifications, professional competence, performance & business needs. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and local laws. It is the shared responsibility of every employee to adhere to these principles.