Vice President, Stadium Operations

Columbus Crew • Full-time • Columbus, OH, US • 2w ago

Haslam Sports Group & HSG Soccer

Haslam Sports Group (HSG) is a diversified sports and entertainment ownership and investment organization committed to building championship teams and delivering world-class fan experiences. With a portfolio that spans professional football, basketball, soccer, and emerging ventures, HSG emphasizes innovation, community engagement, and the broader impact of its teams within their respective markets.

Within its soccer operations, Haslam Sports Group Soccer oversees both the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer and the organization's new National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) team.

The Columbus Crew is the first club in Major League Soccer. The club has won three MLS Cup championships in 2008, 2020 and 2023, one Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in 2002, MLS Supporters' Shield titles in 2004, 2008, and 2009, the Campeones Cup in 2021, and the League's Cup in 2024.

The Columbus NWSL team will be the 18th team in the NWSL when it joins for the 2028 NWSL season.

Background

Haslam Sports Group Soccer is seeking a highly skilled and experienced venue executive to join our team as the Vice President of Operations. In this role, you will be a strategic partner with the executive team, responsible for the planning and execution of all HSG Soccer venues, including ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, the OhioHealth Performance Center, Historic Crew Stadium, the HSG Soccer Business Offices at Municipal Light Plant, and the to-be-constructed NWSL training facility for Columbus' NWSL team, which will start play in 2028.

Additionally, this role will play a critical part in the successful launch and establishment of the NWSL's 18th franchise, contributing to foundational strategy, organizational buildout, and market positioning. As a key member of the executive leadership team, this individual will help shape the club's vision, culture, and long-term success both on and off the pitch.

Responsibilities

The VP of Stadium Operations will lead a team that oversees all HSG Soccer facilities and will produce a best-in-class guest experience, with the goal of creating memorable moments for attendees and delivering on investments from corporate partners through a strong foundation of operations, safety, and training. This will require strong relationships across the company, in addition to exceptional relationships with food and beverage partner Levy, team shop partner Rank & Rally, and our staffing vendors. The VP of Stadium Operations will have the freedom to create the culture necessary to achieve the highest levels of fan satisfaction.

Overall Facility Management: Oversee all aspects of operations and in-venue experience at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field, OhioHealth Performance Center, Historic Crew Stadium, HSG Soccer Business Offices at Municipal Light Plant, and the to-be-constructed NWSL training facility for Columbus' NWSL team.
Operations: Ensure the successful management and execution of operations across all HSG Soccer venues, including facility maintenance, food and beverage, security, event planning and operations, match day operations, merchandise, guest services and parking.
Facility Maintenance: Develop and implement comprehensive maintenance programs to ensure all facilities are in optimal condition, adhering to industry standards and regulations.
Facility Projects: Work in conjunction with Haslam Sport Group's SVP of Operations to oversee and deliver all HSG Soccer facility projects, including the construction of the NWSL training facility and locker room at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field.
Safety and Security: Collaborate with security teams to establish and enforce security protocols, emergency response plans, and crowd management strategies to ensure a safe and secure environment for all attendees at each facility. Develop and maintain key relationships to include local and federal law enforcement, local fire departments, and government agencies.
Event Planning and Operations: Coordinate and execute various small and large-scale events, including soccer matches and tournaments, concerts and festivals, training events, community events, and business functions. This includes managing logistics, coordinating with vendors and partners, and overseeing event staff, with a focus on enhancing the fan experience.
Fan Experience Enhancement: Develop strategies and initiatives to continually improve the 360-degree fan experience program at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field and other facilities, ensuring that fans have an exceptional and memorable time during matches and events.
Budget and Resource Management: Develop and manage the operations and capital budgets for all facilities, ensuring efficient utilization of resources and cost-effective practices.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Foster strong relationships and effective communication with internal stakeholders, including team management, soccer operations, and various departments within the HSG Soccer organization.
External Partnerships: Cultivate relationships with external partners, vendors, and local authorities to introduce innovative solutions and technologies that enhance the fan experience at each facility.
Compliance and Regulations: Stay abreast of relevant regulations, licensing requirements, and safety standards, ensuring compliance with league guidelines and all applicable laws and regulations.
Team Leadership: Provide strategic leadership and guidance to the facility operations teams, fostering a positive work environment, promoting professional development, and optimizing team performance.
Executive Leadership: Be a strategic partner with the executive team, maximizing returns for the venue's business lines, including facility leasing, ticket sales, premium seating, sponsorship, food and beverage, parking, and merchandise.

Qualifications

Experience: Bachelor's degree in business, facility management, or a relevant field and 10+ years of experience in facility management and supervising individuals, with a proven track record of success in managing large-scale events and multi facility operations.
Strong Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a diverse team, effectively delegate responsibilities, and foster a collaborative and results-oriented work culture.
Excellent Organizational Skills: Exceptional organizational and time management abilities to handle multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
Problem-Solving and Decision Making: Proven analytical and critical thinking skills to identify challenges, develop innovative solutions, and make sound decisions in high-pressure situations.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels.
Industry Knowledge: In-depth understanding of facility and stadium operations, facility management best practices, and industry trends.
Flexibility and Availability: Willingness to work irregular hours, including events, weekends, and holidays, to accommodate the demands of event planning and operations at multiple facilities.