MANAGER, VOLUNTEER ENGAGEMENT & COMMUNICATIONS

Volunteers are at the heart of all FIFA events, impacting all that experience the Tournaments, and represents a critical component to the successful delivery of FCWC2025 and FWC2026. As football unites the world, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Volunteer Program provides a unique opportunity to unite and connect with individuals and communities across North America. Like in all FIFA Tournaments, Volunteers will become the ‘face’ of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ enhancing the profile, reputation and appeal of football, FIFA, and Host Cities on a global stage. The Volunteer Program will be a driver to help achieve strategic tournament objectives alongside acting as a vehicle for positive social change, by helping strengthen social connections, increase in civic pride, employment & skills, and creating a movement to sustain and grow volunteering across Host Cities.

Reporting organizationally to the Head of Volunteer Management in Miami, Florida, the Volunteer Engagement Communications Manager will be a key member of the FIFA26 Volunteer Program team, and work in close collaboration with the Host Country and FIFA Zurich Volunteer teams, Marketing and Communications teams, Tournament Workforce Readiness, and other key individuals and agencies responsible for delivering the Volunteer programs across US, MEX and CAN.

The position will take an active role in the strategic planning and tactical execution of the Volunteer Communications Strategy. This strategy will include all internal direct communication and engagement with volunteers and external promotion of the Volunteer Program on FIFA World Cup 2026™ channels, such as the volunteer platform, website and social media. This individual will be the lead contact with any required external communications agency for the Volunteer program, driving the wider North American plan, and supporting key engagement opportunities such a launch, recruitment, and activation of the Volunteer Program.

THE POSITION

The candidate should have strong strategic and operational experience across a range of communication and media channels, including content creation, social media, and public relations. Experience of stakeholder management would also be an advantage. In addition, they should have coordination, project management and negotiation skills.

• Lead development of Volunteer Communications Strategy internally and externally.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive communication strategy to engage volunteers before, during and after the tournament.
• Work closely with FIFA Zurich Volunteer Team to incorporate larger FIFA communications & engagement strategy into overarching FIFA World Cup 2026 plan.
• Primary contact for any collaborative efforts with an external communications agency (AOR), supporting in the RFP process and ensuring positive coverage of volunteer efforts and contributions.
• Develop operational and FAQ materials for volunteers working closely with Functional Area key contacts.
• Create written content that is inspiring and engaging for various channels, internal website, social media and contact centers.
• Manage relevant social media channels, working in collaboration with media AOR to address any concerns through crisis communication planning.
• Coordinate development and provide ongoing input, information and materials (as requested) that support internal and external communication efforts about the program and its initiatives.
• Provide ancillary support for other team members and support colleagues as needed or requested.
• Be end-to-end manager for various project deliveries; ensure smooth communication, coordination and cooperation with internal and external parties.
• Be the Volunteer Program’s focal point and coordinate with the Marketing & Communications Department across host country teams.
• Support various Communications divisions where required, including Digital, Media Relations and others.

YOUR PROFILE

Education & Qualifications
• University degree in business, communications and marketing (or adequate training/vocational education)
• Master’s Degree an additional asset

Work Experience
• 7+ years of experience in communications role
• Experience of working within a major sports event organisation an advantage
• Demonstrable experience of social media and media relations
• Strong project management and campaigns experience
• Knowledge of Photoshop, Final Cut Pro, Audacity, web design and any other applications is beneficial; Additional qualification in web design or animation is a plus
• Proven ability to manage clients and relations with multiple departments.
• Excellent communications skills; people management skills; ability to motivate others towards a common goal; proven record of efficient project management, clear orientation on result.
• Excellent analytical skills and critical thinking
• Ability to understand the big picture and adapt accordingly; be agile and stress resistant
• Flexibility and ability to work autonomously.
• Team player, willing to work on tight timelines and pitch in when needed.
• Positive attitude, patience and persistence

Languages
• Fluent in English. Spanish and/or French proficiency is a plus

Technology
• Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio & Project) and planning software and online collaboration tools