Protocol and Guest Management

Overview

Join to apply for the Protocol and Guest Management role at Local Organising Committee AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 Pty Ltd

Please note that this role is fixed term until March 2026.

The Kick-off Story: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has awarded Football Australia hosting rights for the 2026 edition of the AFC Women's Asian Cup. This marks Australia's second time hosting the event, after previously staging it in 2006, and follows the success of co-hosting the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. You will be part of a Local Organising Committee (LOC) established for the sole purpose of delivering the 2026 edition of the AFC Women's Asian Cup in Australia. This prestigious event will bring together 12 nations in a tournament structured into three groups of four, with legacy outcomes for football and Australian society. If you need assistance in applying for this role, please reach out to our People team.

Click APPLY NOW to submit your application, including a cover letter and current resume. Application Closing Date: 21 September 2025.

We encourage applications from people who identify as female or non-binary, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

In submitting an application, you agree to our collection statement. To review, head to the following link: www.footballaustralia.com.au/jobs/collection-statement

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Protocol and Guest Management team, including staff, volunteers, and contractors.
• Develop and implement training to ensure high-quality service across all venues and events.
• Foster a collaborative, efficient team environment, ensuring roles are clear and performance is optimal under event pressure.
• Oversee protocol and guest management for VVIP/VIP guests at the tournament and peripheral events.
• Coordinate with Travel, Security, AFC, and government bodies to ensure smooth airport and venue operations.
• Manage venue-specific protocol requirements, including signage, client facilities, and service delivery.

Strategic Planning

• Develop strategic objectives and operational plans for Protocol and Guest Management at AFC WAC 2026.
• Set policies and guidelines for VVIP/VIP guest protocol and establish service standards for various client groups.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to map client journeys and ensure seamless integration with other event areas.

Budget and Financial Management

• Oversee the operational budget for Protocol and Guest Management, ensuring financial goals are met.
• Collaborate with event-time leads to manage costs and vendor contracts.
• Work with the finance team to ensure accurate financial documentation and adherence to processes.

Post-Event Wrap-up and Evaluation

• Lead post-event evaluations with stakeholders to assess performance and gather feedback.
• Prepare detailed reports, outlining successes, challenges, and recommendations for future events.
• Ensure documentation is accurate for analysis and continuous improvement in future tournaments.

A full copy of the position description can be found by copy and pasting the following link into a web browser: https://www.footballaustralia.com.au/sites/ffa/files/2025-09/Position%20description%20-%20Protocol%20and%20Guest%20Management%20-%20AFC%20Women%27s%20Asian%20Cup%202026%20LOC.pdf

What Gets You in the Game?

• Extensive experience in protocol, guest management, or international diplomacy within major sports events.
• Strong understanding of managing protocol and guest services for international teams and high-profile events.
• Proficient in using CRM/cloud-based systems to manage guest information and deliver exceptional service.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public speaking skills, with a persuasive and engaging presence.
• Proven track record in negotiation, stakeholder consultation, and maintaining strong professional relationships.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing cross-functional teams and complex projects, driving operational success.
• Must demonstrate the ability to work with agility, foster trust, embrace inclusivity, collaborate as one united team, and consistently strive for excellence.

Offsite/Working Conditions

• Full working rights in Australia (please note that due to the fixed-term nature of the tournament, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this position)
• Working with children check (paid/employee) or state-based equivalent
• International Criminal History Record for each country (other than Australia) in which you have resided for 12 months or more in the last 10 years (if applicable)
• Out of hours and weekend work as required
• Our roles are based at Moore Park in Sydney

The Winning Team Benefits

• Flexible Work Arrangements
• Access to National Team Match Tickets
• Partner Discounts and Offers
• Birthday and Thank You Leave

Employment type: Full-time
• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level

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