ABOUT PORTLAND FIRE:
Professional women’s basketball is returning to Portland. On September 18, 2024, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) awarded Portland its 15th franchise, bringing the league back to the city for the first time in over two decades. Owned and operated by the Bhathal family through RAJ Sports, the team will make its official debut in 2026 at the Moda Center. Portland is cementing itself as the epicenter of women’s sports, powered by a passionate fan base and a rich basketball culture. At Portland Fire, we’re building more than a team, we’re creating a modern, inclusive, and community-driven organization from the ground up. With innovation, integrity, and excellence at our core, our mission is to set a new standard in women’s professional basketball - delivering excellence on the court, inspiring fans, and serving the city we call home. As we prepare for our inaugural season, we’re looking for passionate, driven professionals to help shape the future of this franchise and the future of the game.
THE ROLE:
The Portland Fire is seeking a high-energy, detail-oriented professional to serve as Manager, Game Experience and Events. Reporting to the Director of Game Experience and Events, you will be a foundational member of the team, helping build the game-day strategy from the ground up. In this role, you will bridge the gap between creative vision and live execution, serving as the lead stage manager for all game presentation elements including coordinating performers, fan contests, and on-court presentations to ensure every moment is electric.
The ideal candidate has a background in live event management, sports entertainment, and game presentation. The person in this role should be a master collaborator, with the ability to work across departments including Partnerships, Creative Design, Community Impact, and Ticketing, as well as manage external relationships with vendors and partners. This role requires a proactive individual with a passion for sports, particularly women's basketball, and the ability to work non-traditional hours in a fast-paced environment.
WHAT YOU’LL BE UP TO:
- Serve as the primary stage manager to facilitate the seamless execution of all gameday elements
- Assist in developing innovative programming ideas and entertainment concepts to enhance the overall gameday experience
- Support the creation of detailed game rundowns, scripts, and all essential gameday documents
- Research, book, and manage all in-game performers (anthem, halftime, in-game entertainment)
- Schedule and oversee rehearsal and soundcheck times for all gameday talent, including national anthem performers, halftime acts, hype teams, and emcee
- Hire, train, and supervise game night staff
- Collaborate across departments, including brand marketing and corporate partnerships to ensure execution of activations, partner fulfillments and brand marketing integrations
- Perform administrative duties as needed
What it Takes:
- 3-5 years of game presentation/sports entertainment experience, with a proven track record of leading game day operations and events
- Knowledge of WNBA game day operations preferred
- Experience using Shoflo software
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management skills, able to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously
- Experience and interest in live event production.
- Ability to work flexible hours as needed, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Passion for the growth and development of women's basketball, with a vested interest in advancing the sport and engaging fans
BENEFITS
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives, Salary Range $70,000 - $80,000
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement
- Dynamic, collaborative and fun work environment
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the growth of women's basketball
Ready to Be a Game Changer in Portland? Apply Now!
If you’re ready to shape the future of Portland Fire, we want to hear from you. Join us as we make history—on and off the court.
To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter outlining how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate for this role.
Portland Fire is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
About Portland Fire Ownership, RAJ Sports:
RAJ Sports, led by Alex Bhathal and Lisa Bhathal Merage, focuses on investment opportunities in sports and sports-related properties, drawing on the Bhathal family’s multi-generational experience and relationships in the industry. The firm seeks to leverage the power of sports to affect broader social and economic change through a variety of business and philanthropic strategies. Its deep experience in professional sports operations and large-scale real estate developments that create thriving community centers, positions the firm to deliver valuable assets that will support further growth for the players, staff, and fans. In 2013, the Bhathal family became investors in the Sacramento Kings (NBA); subsequently building the platform to include the Sacramento RiverCats (MiLB), Stockton Kings (NBA G-League) and several sports anchored real estate developments. The 2024 acquisitions of Portland Thorns (NWSL) and the Portland Fire expansion team represents a milestone for the city of Portland and places it at the epicenter of growth for women’s sports.
