Senior Director, Match Business at Major League Soccer in New York, NY

Overview

The Properties and Match Business Department oversees the development and delivery of all Soccer United Marketing (“SUM”) events in North America, as well as the management of SUM business relationships with some of the most meaningful soccer properties in the region. The portfolio of events includes the CONCACAF Gold Cup, the Mexican National Team U.S. Tour and other Major League Soccer and enterprise events. The organization has long-term business partnerships with Concacaf, Liga MX, and the Federacion Mexicana de Futbol (FMF).

The Senior Director, Match Business is responsible for managing the creation, planning, promotion, delivery, and overall match business operations including tournament planning/development, regional relationships, and venue contacts for all SUM events. This position is also a primary connection point between all other internal departments associated with SUM events.

Responsibilities

• Lead event business operations to maximize revenue and business opportunities across all SUM events
• Develop long-term match business plans, considerate of 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
• 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
• Build culture of long-term planning and data-based decision-making, liaising with internal finance and research stakeholders to employ core insights
• 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
• Additional responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• 10+ years of experience organizing and promoting international sports and entertainment events

Required Skills

• 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

• Must be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Power Point

• Ability to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

• Superior organization, project management skills and attention to detail

• Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines with minimal supervision

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of the Spanish Language (business proficiency)

Total Rewards

Major League Soccer offers a competitive starting base salary of $155,000 - $185,000, based on individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs. We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent. Our benefits package includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a $500 wellness reimbursement, and generous Holiday and PTO schedule to promote work-life balance. We also prioritize career and professional development, offering on-the-job training, feedback, and ongoing educational opportunities.

Major League Soccer believes in the value of in-person collaboration to support teamwork, creativity, and connection. Employees in this role are expected to work a four (4) day in-office schedule, with the flexibility to work remotely one (1) day each week, based on business and department needs.

Major League Soccer is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Major League Soccer is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the application and hiring process, as well as during employment. Applicants who require an accommodation may contact Human Resources to request assistance.

Join our team and help support the growth and success of Major League Soccer.