ABOUT THE PHILADELPHIA UNION FOUNDATION
The Philadelphia Union Foundation (PUF) has been and, will always be, an agent of change for the underserved and underprivileged. The Foundation builds safe spaces to play soccer for families throughout Philadelphia, provides innovative educational initiatives and a professional soccer infrastructure for high school students in Chester; and is developing a pioneering mental fitness program to support young players, parents, and coaches across the Delaware Valley.
In 2019, the Foundation brought soccer back to the high school students of Chester for the first time in thirty years. In 2020, during the worst of the pandemic, it created its Fight For Philly initiative providing support for frontline workers and the most vulnerable in society. In 2021, the Foundation opened the first of fifteen mini-pitches and two full-sized signature fields to be built in inner-city Philadelphia. Later that same year, it launched its iAM Project – an academic enrichment, mentorship and career-readiness program for the young men and women of Chester. These projects mark a realization of the Foundation’s commitment to leveraging the power of soccer to create opportunities and to transform lives.
ABOUT THIS ROLE
The Manager, Programs and Operations is responsible for the execution and oversight of PUF’s charitable initiatives (including the iAM Project, Safe Spaces, Headfirst, and Chester Union) as well as fundraising activities and operational support. This role works closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and key stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery and impact of all Foundation programs.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Program Management
- Plan, organize, and execute all aspects of Foundation programs, including logistics, marketing, and volunteer coordination.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with community partners and stakeholders to maximize program impact and engagement.
- Support the creation and implementation of a comprehensive annual plan for match-day fundraising and other initiatives.
Fundraising & Events
- Co-manage and support all PUF fundraising events (e.g., Gala, Doop Cup) in collaboration with the Executive Director.
- Set fundraising targets for match-day activities such as the 50/50 raffle, Locker Room Sale, Membership drives, and Foundation Night.
- Cultivate and develop corporate partnerships to support fundraising efforts and program initiatives.
Operations & Governance
- Organize and manage calendars, set agendas, and coordinate meetings with the Executive Director and Board Committee Chairs.
- Collaborate with the Executive Director and Board Finance Committee on budget planning and the development of the Annual Report.
- Participate in Board and Committee meetings, contributing to strategic discussions and decision-making.
- Learn and support all aspects of PUF’s governance and financial operations under the guidance of the Executive Director and Board.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree required; preferred fields include Non-Profit Management, Business Administration, Sports Management, or related disciplines.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in program planning, fundraising, and organizational management—ideally within a non-profit, civic, or educational organization.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple initiatives simultaneously.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
- Highly organized and detail-oriented.
- Collaborative team player with a passion for community outreach and engagement.
This is not an exhaustive list and may change depending on the Foundation’s needs and requirements.
This position will require background clearances in compliance with state law.
OUR PERKS
- Comprehensive benefits package including three medical options, vision and dental coverage, including flexible spending & health savings accounts.
- Pre-tax and Roth 401k (up to 4% is matched, after elimination period).
- Company-paid life insurance and disability.
- Paid holidays and PTO days annually.
- Access to licensed therapists via the virtual mental health platform, Tava Health, available to all employees and their dependents.
- Wellness reimbursements through Independence Blue Cross.
- Summer Friday hours.
- 50% merchandise discount.
- Other league and partner discounts.
- Complimentary or discounted tickets.
- 24/7 state-of-the-art Fitness Center, locker rooms, and Sportsplex.
- On-site Café with grab-and-go options, salad bar, and grill!
We are 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. Not sure you meet every requirement? Championship teams are built on diverse strengths. If you’re passionate about sports and excited about this role, we want to hear from you!
