The Director of Gameday Operations is responsible for overseeing and delivering a best-in-class gameday experience for the Flint Firebirds at Dort Financial Center. This role manages all aspects of game presentation, fan engagement, staffing, sponsorship activation, and venue readiness, ensuring that each home game runs smoothly, professionally, and in line with OHL and organizational standards.

Primary Responsibilities

Leadership & Staffing
- Hire, train, oversee, and mentor game day associates, interns, and operations personnel.
- Supervise all game day staff, including promo teams, DJ, PA announcer, camera crew, mascot, and volunteers.
Gameday Operations & Presentation
- Develop and direct game presentation, including pregame ceremonies, intermissions, contests, special events, and postgame activities.
- Create and manage game scripts, timelines, and production rundowns.
- Coordinate with arena staff, security, concessions, and vendors to ensure venue readiness and smooth execution.
- Organize and control facility storage areas and equipment used on gamedays.
Sponsorship & Marketing Activation
- Coordinate with Marketing and Corporate Partnerships departments to fulfill all promotional and sponsor activation requirements (e.g., giveaways, PA reads, contests, in-game presentations, concourse activities).
- Ensure accurate sponsor fulfillment tracking and reporting to maintain partner satisfaction.
- Support the development and maintenance of sales/trade accounts tied to promotions.
Fan Experience
- Create engaging fan experiences that enhance attendance, loyalty, and entertainment value.
- Work with creative/media teams to ensure high-quality music, motion graphics, video board content, lighting, and in-arena presentation.
- Develop and implement fan policy guidelines to ensure a safe, welcoming, and fun environment.
Budgeting & Administration
- Create and manage the Operations budget, maximizing cost efficiencies.
- Provide post-game reports and recommendations to senior leadership.
- Assist with scheduling and attending community events and off-site activations representing the Firebirds.
Compliance & Safety
- Ensure all operations comply with OHL regulations, organizational standards, and safety requirements.

Skills, Qualifications, and Abilities

Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, Business, Communications, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
Minimum of two (2) years related experience in sports venue or live event operations; OHL/pro hockey experience a plus.
Previous game day operations experience preferred
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to multi-task in high-pressure environments.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills, with the ability to manage large teams and interact with diverse audiences.
Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time; must be able to work extended hours (up to 14-hour days, 70–80 hours per week in-season).
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays in line with the Firebirds’ schedule.
Motion graphic and graphic design experience preferred, but not required.
Knowledge of live event production, audio/visual systems, and sponsorship activation is an asset.