At FIFA World Cup 2026, our vision is to unite the world through the greatest, most innovative, and inclusive sporting event of all time. The 2026 World Cup will mark the first time that the tournament will be hosted by three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This new format redefines excellence, generating unique opportunities for greater participation and engagement from fans and players. Now is your time to be part of the workforce that is creating this unique and unforgettable experience.
THE POSITION
Sitting within the Operational Services Department, Guest Operations (along with Accommodation, Transport, Language Services, Logistics, Travel, and Arrivals & Departures) aims to deliver the most engaging, innovative, and accessible World Cup experience for all athletes, fans, partners, and the community.
Reporting organisationally to the Senior Manager Guest Operations & Stadiums - Mexico, you will help serve guest operations efforts for the FIFA World Cup 2026 that for the first time ever, is hosting 48 teams and 1,200+ players across 3 countries and 16 venues. This role will be responsible for coordinating and maintaining a strategic overview of guest operations across the 13 FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026™ matches played in Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey. Further, this role will oversee the implementation strategy, tools, and operational plans for seamless provision of integrated event services (e.g., travel, transport, accommodation, hospitality) to FIFA guest groups within Mexico.
The main responsibilities of the Protocol Manager - Mexico for the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026™ include:
Implementation of the overall FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026™ Protocol strategy for the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026™ matches in Mexico.
With approval from the Head of Guest Operations:
Implement the high-level Protocol services including liaising with local Government Agencies and Mexican Embassies on invitation in addition to any other requirements for Guests attending the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026™ in Mexico.
- Defining the relevant guest groups and the related levels of Protocol services for the FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026™ in Mexico
- Conducting Mexico-specific training on Protocol matters including special customs, behaviors and cultural considerations that are appropriate when hosting dignitaries and people in positions of influence and importance for event workforce, contractual partners, and service providers
- Act as the key contact for high-ranking Mexican dignitaries and government representatives in the lead up to and throughout FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026™ matches in Mexico
- Implement Protocol Guidelines including decision making process and principles of VVIP Seating in Mexico
- Implement protocol requirements at all FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026™ stadiums in Mexico and have excellent knowledge of VVIP/VIP spaces including lounges, seating, drop-off zones and constituent flows
- Managing all protocol services, including preparing seating charts, advising on forms of address and ceremonial matters, welcoming guests, and arranging premium experiences
- Work closely with FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026™ Protocol Manager - US to ensure all protocol services and processes are approved and align with FWC26 Protocol guidelines and
- Oversee the day-to-day Mexico operations of the Protocol sub-functions and report to management on activities and project outcomes as and when required
- Attending site visits and inspections in Mexico
YOUR PROFILE We work hard at FIFA.
We are dedicated, ambitious and innovative.
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (business administration, management, leadership, entrepreneurship, public relations, political science.
- Extensive relevant work experience and strong knowledge of Protocol and/or experience engaging with people in particular positions of influence and importance such as politicians, academic representatives and C-Level business leaders.
- 5+ years’ in Protocol management.
- Experience within a sport/event organization or in a mega project, preferably a world class sport event.
- Experience in working with Government departments/representatives.
- Exceptional attention to detail and high level of diplomacy.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong Project Management skills.
- Advanced skills in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Time management and the ability to prioritize a varied workload.
- Willingness to work outside core working hours (online workshops accommodating different time zones).
- Extensive relevant work experience and strong knowledge of Protocol and/or experience engaging with people in particular positions of influence and importance such as politicians, academic representatives and C-Level business leaders.
- Experience within a sport/event organization or in a mega project, preferably a world class sport event.
- Experience in working with Government departments/representatives.
- Excellent organizational and planning skills.
- Good networking skills.
We will only consider CVs submitted in English.
