Job Title: Operations Lead – Stadium and Venue Management
Reports To: Chief Executive Officer
Location: Fort Lauderdale United
Job Type: Full-Time
About Us:
Fort Lauderdale United FC is a proud part of South Florida’s growing soccer landscape, fielding professional teams in the USL Super League and USL League One (launching in 2026), as well as pre-professional teams in USL W League, USL League Two and USL Academy. With complete men’s and women’s pathways to pro, the club provides a clear progression from youth development to the professional levels. Based in Fort Lauderdale and playing at the state-of-the-art, 7,000-seat Beyond Bancard Field at NSU, Fort Lauderdale United is focused on developing players, connecting communities, and helping shape the future of soccer in South Florida. More than just a soccer organization, Fort Lauderdale United offers programs that reach beyond the pitch – including the thriving volleyball program that has over 400 players from ages 8 to 18.
Job Description:
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Operations Lead to join our dynamic team, responsible for the seamless setup and management of our stadium and associated venues. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth execution of events, practices, and daily operations across various sports – including men’s and women’s soccer, volleyball, and youth academy programs. The Operations Lead will oversee the operational logistics, venue readiness, and ensure high standards of quality and safety are maintained across all areas.
The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, ever-evolving environment, brings exceptional problem-solving skills, and can adapt quickly to the shifting demands of sports programming. This role requires a proactive, hands-on leader with a meticulous eye for detail and a passion for delivering operational excellence in event and venue management.
Main Responsibilities:
- Oversee the preparation and setup of the stadium and associated venues for events, team practices, and daily operations.
- Coordinate with internal teams (e.g., facilities, technical, security) and external vendors to ensure all areas are fully operational and meet the required standards.
- Ensure that all equipment, seating, signage, and other event-specific setups are properly arranged before practices or events.
- Maintain an organized and efficient venue operation, ensuring that all spaces (e.g., field, court, locker rooms, media zones) are ready for use.
- Ensure proper scheduling and coordination of all venue activities, including sports practices for soccer, volleyball, and academy programs.
- Oversee the day-to-day logistics, including staff assignments, transportation, equipment setup, and communication with coaches and stakeholders.
- Ensure every aspect of the venue setup meets the highest standards of safety, quality, and professionalism.
- Conduct thorough inspections to confirm all facilities are in working order, including field/court conditions, lighting, and sound systems.
- Proactively identify potential issues and troubleshoot potential issues quickly to avoid disruptions during events or practices.
- Respond quickly to last-minute scheduling changes, event requirements, or logistical challenges to maintain seamless operations.
- Stay ahead of potential challenges by anticipating changes in venue needs based on weather, schedule alterations, or unexpected incidents.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for operational coordination during events, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned and informed.
- Ensure all operational activities comply with health, safety, and regulatory standards.
- Supervise venue cleanliness, organization, and security during events and practices.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of stadium policies and procedures to ensure full compliance across all activities.
Qualifications:
- Experience in venue or operations management, preferably within a sports, stadium, or arena environment.
- Experience working across multiple sports and events – including soccer, volleyball, and youth programs – is highly desirable.
- Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple moving parts in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to think critically and solve problems in real time.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.
- Proactive, adaptable, and able to perform under pressure or in rapidly changing situations.
- Strong leadership skills, with the ability to direct and motivate a diverse team of staff and vendors.
- Familiarity with venue management software, scheduling tools, and operational technology systems.
- Willingness and ability to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on event schedules.
- Comfortable performing physical tasks, including equipment setup and troubleshooting, as needed.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Fort Lauderdale United FC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.
