Experiential Director (Ticket Management) (Adult Beverage Client) (Contract) (Chicago)

Experiential Director (Ticket Management) (Adult Beverage Client) (Contract)

Contract Dates: ASAP to August 31st, 2026

Contract Type: W-2 Employment

Overview

Octagon is seeking a highly experienced Ticket Management Director to join a dynamic team, working with a global client with sponsorships for the FIFA World Cup 2026. This role involves planning and executing end-to-end ticketing operations within a hospitality program for major sporting events.

Responsibilities

• Lead all ticketing operations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, overseeing allocation, tracking, and delivery across a diverse global client base.
• Provide strategic oversight and advisory support to align ticketing operations with stakeholder goals and contractual obligations.
• Establish and manage an integrated ticket and guest access system, ensuring alignment with program requirements.
• Coordinate with departments such as Hospitality, Compliance, Accreditation, and Guest Services.
• Maintain accurate records in Excel (pivot tables, XLOOKUP, data validation).
• Direct end-to-end planning and execution of ticket fulfilment, venue support, and guest service delivery for priority client groups.
• Manage ticket-related communications and resolve queries in collaboration with internal and external teams.
• Act as the primary point of contact between teams, key stakeholders, and internal operational units.
• Lead contingency planning and issue resolution to ensure operational readiness across all venues.
• Deliver accurate reporting, reconciliation, and audits of ticket inventory with regular insights to leadership and partners.
• Configure and maintain a secure, scalable ticketing management system and tracker.
• Ensure all systems and practices comply with FIFA regulations, data protection laws, and contractual obligations.
• Serve as the central contact for assigned client groups, ensuring their ticketing needs are met with precision and professionalism.
• Track ticket allocations, transfers, and usage with clear reporting structures and accountability.
• Develop and manage strategies for ticket distribution, policy compliance, and operational readiness across all delivery channels.
• Analyze data to create performance dashboards, contribute to insights, and support post-tournament reporting.
• Anticipate and resolve potential delivery challenges, escalating when necessary and implementing mitigation plans.
• Recruit and lead on-the-ground ticketing support teams for event delivery.

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of extensive Ticket Management experience in major events (FIFA World Cup or Olympics), with a strong eye for detail and precision in high-pressure environments.
• Technically proficient with major events ticketing platforms (FIFA or Olympics), guest registration tools, and data privacy requirements.
• Proven ability to communicate clearly, in writing and in person, with stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong Excel skills, able to build automated files (pivot tables, formulas, advanced data analysis).
• Experience navigating cross-functional teams, clients, and agency partners with diplomacy.
• Highly organized, dependable, and focused; able to manage multiple priorities without errors.
• Collaborative by nature with a team-focused mindset.
• Open to global travel and flexible work hours, including weekends and later nights as part of the experience.
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally; anticipated travel level: High (45%-75%).

Team & Culture

We are Playmakers—creating bold, insightful work and unlocking potential for clients and talent. Octagon is the global sports, entertainment, and experiential marketing arm of the Interpublic Group.

Equity & Inclusion

Octagon is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Additional Information

Location and work model: Flexible with priority for hybrid work (3 days/week in office) in Stamford, CT or other listed East Coast locations; remote options considered for candidates with East Coast hours.

Seniority level: Director

Employment type: Contract

Job function: Marketing

Industries: Marketing Services and Events Services

EEO statements and related notices retained as provided by the posting.