Manager/Sr. Manager, Game Entertainment and Special Events

Arizona Cardinals•Tempe, AZ

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Manager/Sr. Manager, Game Entertainment & Special Events supports the execution of the Arizona Cardinals' gameday entertainment strategy and fan-facing events. Reporting to the Director, Game Entertainment & Special Events, this role manages the day-to-day planning, coordination, and execution of home game presentation elements and live events. The Manager/Sr. Manager serves as the operational lead for gameday entertainment and special events, ensuring all production elements, talent, vendors, timelines, and logistics are executed at a best-in-class level. This position works cross-functionally with Marketing, Creative, Partnerships, Community Relations, Stadium Operations, and external partners to deliver memorable fan experiences that align with organizational objectives and the club's brand.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, Marketing, Communications, Event Management, or related field
At least 5 - 8 or more years of experience in live event production, sports entertainment, game presentation, or event management, preferably within professional sports or large-scale entertainment properties
Strong understanding of NFL or other sport gameday operations and live production environments
Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines
Exceptional organizational, communication, and leadership skills
Experience managing agencies, vendors, and entertainment talent preferred
Knowledge of standard major broadcast control room equipment and operations preferred
Knowledge of sports production software, scripting, and live show execution is a plus
Creative thinker with a passion for live entertainment and fan engagement
Collaborative and solutions-oriented leader
Strong attention to detail with the ability to thrive in high-pressure environments
Deep understanding of sports culture, fan behavior, and entertainment trends
Innovative mindset focused on creating memorable experiences that drive emotional connection with fans
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays; hours may vary depending on business needs
Must complete all pre-employment forms and successfully pass a background check
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of a student or employment Visas (including, but not limited to F-1, M-1, J-1, H-1B, OPT and/or CPT programs, etc.).

Responsibilities

Manage the day-to-day planning and execution of Cardinals home game entertainment and presentation elements, including; run of show, in-game features, talent and host management, music and DJ coordination, halftime and pregame entertainment, fan prompts and crowd engagement moments, special ceremonies and themed game experiences, and sponsor integrations
Develop creative concepts that elevate the live fan experience and align with the club's brand identity and seasonal campaigns
Develop and maintain production timelines, scripts, cue sheets, rehearsal schedules, and operational documents
Partner closely with the production team and partners to ensure seamless execution of all entertainment elements
Coordinate gameday staff scheduling, training, communication, and payroll processes
Identify new trends, technologies, and fan engagement opportunities to continuously evolve the in-stadium experience
Collaborate closely with the Creative department on graphic look and feel, video content, theme games, and NFL initiatives
Lead operational planning and execution for fan-facing events, including; draft and local watch party events, training camp, annual Red & White Practice, fan festivals, high school honors award show, season ticket member events, special announcements, and other club celebrations
Develop event plans, timelines, staffing schedules, vendor requirements, and event-day logistics
Coordinate with internal departments and external partners to ensure successful event execution
Manage event setup, breakdown, credentialing, transportation, and other operational requirements
Manage relationships with entertainment vendors, agencies, performers, emcees, anthem singers, and specialty acts
Work closely with Corporate Partnerships to integrate and execute sponsor-related entertainment elements and contractual obligations
Track deliverables and ensure partner integrations are executed accurately and on schedule
Provide day-to-day leadership for coordinators, interns, part-time staff, and gameday personnel
Develop and maintain project timelines, operational documentation, event recaps, and post-event evaluations
Assist with departmental budgeting, expense tracking, vendor negotiations and management, and forecasting
Collect and analyze fan feedback, attendance data, and event performance metrics to identify opportunities for improvement
Support the Director, Game Entertainment & Special Events with department initiatives and strategic projects as assigned
Other duties as assigned