Manager, San Diego Event Operations

NASCAR•San Diego, CA

6d•Remote

About The Position

NASCAR is seeking an experienced Manager, San Diego Event Operations to lead the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of special event operations. The role oversees complex event initiatives, venue operations, and cross-functional projects that deliver exceptional experiences for fans, partners, and stakeholders. It combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution, including leading cross-functional projects, developing scalable operational strategies, and identifying ways to improve efficiency, innovation, and consistency across NASCAR special events. The position is remote and requires extensive travel. Initially, the manager will support a 1–3 month assignment in the San Diego area leading up to the Anduril 250 NASCAR Cup Series race at Naval Base Coronado in August 2027. After the event, the role will continue supporting NASCAR special events and strategic initiatives nationwide. The manager will work closely with executive leadership and key stakeholders to advance organizational priorities and deliver best-in-class event experiences.

Requirements

Ten or more years of experience in event operations, venue management, hospitality operations, or a related field.
Demonstrated experience leading large-scale live events, complex operational initiatives, and cross-functional projects.
Strong strategic planning, project management, budgeting, and resource allocation skills.
Proven ability to develop and implement operational processes, identify efficiencies, and drive continuous improvement.
Strong leadership and decision-making skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with executive leadership, internal teams, and external partners.
Ability to balance long-term strategic objectives with hands-on operational execution.
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with a high level of accountability, attention to detail, and follow-through.
Valid driver's license in good standing and ability to meet company driving record requirements.
Ability to travel up to 75% of the time, including extended periods supporting on-site event operations.
Ability to comply with NASCAR's substance abuse policy.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university preferred.
Experience in professional sports, motorsports, or live entertainment preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of NASCAR special events and select organizational initiatives.
Serve as a key operational leader supporting the planning and execution of the Anduril 250 NASCAR Cup Series event at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego.
Support temporary on-site event operations assignments, including an initial 1–3 month deployment in the San Diego market leading up to major event execution.
Oversee venue readiness, event logistics, production schedules, and on-site operations to ensure safe, efficient, and successful event execution.
Provide operational leadership throughout all phases of events, including planning, setup, execution, and breakdown.
Ensure event operations align with NASCAR's safety, operational, and risk management standards.
Develop and manage event budgets, project timelines, resource allocation, and operational priorities.
Identify opportunities to streamline processes, optimize spending, and improve operational efficiency and overall business performance.
Establish and implement operational standards, playbooks, and scalable processes to drive consistency across events.
Champion innovation through technology, reporting, and workflow improvements that enhance event operations and organizational effectiveness.
Partner with cross-functional teams, including Competition, Design & Development, Experience, Marketing, Security, Sustainability, and Guest Services, to align event operations with business objectives.
Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, executive leadership, vendors, agencies, contractors, and external partners.
Oversee vendor and partner relationships to ensure operational requirements, performance expectations, and organizational objectives are met.
Lead complex, cross-functional projects and strategic initiatives from initial planning through successful execution.
Serve as a trusted partner to leadership by providing operational insights, identifying opportunities for improvement, and supporting strategic business priorities.
Perform other duties as assigned.