Vice President, Venue Operations

The Vice President, Venue Operations will lead the Event & Facility Operations Department with oversight of matches, events, organization owned and external facilities and associated logistics to ensure adherence with league requirements. Responsible for relationship management with NWSL Operations, Facilities and Broadcast departments and all event and facility stakeholders and vendors.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Lead the Facility & Event Operations Department, overseeing all Chicago Stars FC matches, events, external facilities, and associated logistics.
• Drive operational efficiency and profitability across the full event lifecycle by developing standardized tools, processes, and budgets at both the individual event and organizational level.
• Manage capital planning, P&L performance, staffing levels, and labor utilization across all event types.
• Oversee planning and execution of matches and special events in partnership with internal teams and external stakeholders, including managing relationships with external facility owners and operators.
• Oversee inventory, storage, and transportation logistics for all team equipment across facilities.
• Ensure adherence to CBA regulations across all facilities used by Chicago Stars FC.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with venues, vendors, and suppliers, and collaborate with the Corporate Partnerships team on facility-related agreements.
• Identify opportunities to enhance the guest experience; lead initiatives and policy improvements that advance guest safety, security, and overall satisfaction.
• Oversee event command post and incident tracking systems, using data to drive continuous improvement.
• Lead the development and implementation of emergency response plans and crisis management protocols.
• Oversee development and operational readiness of the organization's new training facility
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of managers and coordinators, with accountability for staffing, training, and performance management across the department.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 8 years’ experience in large venue event management, including direct supervision of personnel, conflict management, rewards and recognition, guest services, mentor and motivate a diverse and dynamic workforce.
• Demonstrated event safety and security best practices, and performance management.
• Demonstrated leadership and personnel management experience with the ability to coach, experience with Federal, State and Local OSHA regulations compliance, including fire, life-safety.
• Ability to coordinate multiple tasks, prioritize quickly, problem solve, and work collaboratively and professionally with colleagues, fans, athletes, and other stakeholders.
• Knowledge in determining and coordinating logistical needs for large events, preferably in a large sports stadium or event venue.
• Outstanding proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite with priority in Word, Excel, & PowerPoint.
• Proven job reliability, diligence, dedication, and attention to detail through the full life-cycle of events (planning, matchday, post-evaluation).
• Demonstrate a service-oriented approach, outstanding guest service, and a results-oriented mindset in all aspects of job and team performance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Sports Administration or Management is preferred.
• Self-starter – intrinsically motivated and able to motivate others.
• Passion for delivering service both externally and internally.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Must be able to lift, carry, and move items weighing up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Must have willingness to work in an outdoor stadium environment.

LOCATION/SCHEDULE

• Must be able to attend all Chicago Stars FC home matches.
• Must have ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Must have reliable Transportation to Seat Geek Stadium in Bridgeview, IL, Central office located in Downtown Chicago, and Northwestern University in Evanston, IL and other Chicagoland facilities as needed.

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT CHICAGO STARS

We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization.

• Medical Insurance, including FSA and HSA plan options
• Vision and Dental Insurance
• Accrued Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Life Insurance
• Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
• 401(k) and employer match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Discounts
• Employee Tickets
• Fun and Engaging Volunteer Opportunities

ABOUT US

Established in 2007, the Chicago Stars were a founding member of the former Women’s Professional Soccer and later became one of the original eight teams to form the National Women’s Soccer League in 2013. They are the longest continuously operating professional women’s soccer team in the United States. The Chicago Stars have made the playoffs in seven consecutive years, from 2015-2021, while also competing in three championship matches in as many years, including the 2019 and 2021 NWSL Championships and the 2020 Challenge Cup Championship.

At Chicago Stars FC, we believe in the power of community. Our mission extends beyond the pitch as we strive to make a positive impact in the lives of our fans, players, and local organizations. With our partners, including Wintrust, we are committed to fostering connections, promoting inclusivity, and empowering individuals through the beautiful game of soccer.
We strive to support a diverse community where everyone feels valued, inspired, and empowered.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. We also make reasonable accommodations for applicants’ and employees’ religious practices and beliefs, as well as mental health or physical disability needs. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at [email protected].

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veterans