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Protocol Manager
BrazilPosted Yesterday
Full-timehybrid
Job Description
Protocol Manager
Department: Tournament and Venue Operations
Employment Type: Fixed Term - Full Time
Location: Brazil
Description
FIFA has established a Local FIFA Subsidiary in Brazil to work together with FIFA Zurich to deliver the biggest women’s sporting event in the world, the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ (“FWWC2027”) that for the first time ever, is hosted in South America in Brazil. Now is your time to be part of the workforce that is creating this unique and unforgettable experience.
Please submit your CV in English, as it will be reviewed by an international team.
Please submit your CV in English, as it will be reviewed by an international team.
THE POSITION
The Protocol Manager is responsible for the definition, development, and implementation of the Protocol strategy for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™.
The role focuses on the planning, coordination, and delivery of high-level Protocol services for VVIP/VIP guests and dignitaries, including liaison with government authorities, embassies, and official delegations.
The Protocol Manager ensures the establishment of Protocol guidelines, processes, and service standards, and oversees their consistent application across all official FIFA event sites, in alignment with FIFA expectations.
Reporting to the Senior Guest Operations Manager, the role acts as the key point of reference for all Protocol-related matters and represents the function to both internal and external stakeholders.
The role focuses on the planning, coordination, and delivery of high-level Protocol services for VVIP/VIP guests and dignitaries, including liaison with government authorities, embassies, and official delegations.
The Protocol Manager ensures the establishment of Protocol guidelines, processes, and service standards, and oversees their consistent application across all official FIFA event sites, in alignment with FIFA expectations.
Reporting to the Senior Guest Operations Manager, the role acts as the key point of reference for all Protocol-related matters and represents the function to both internal and external stakeholders.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Define the overall Protocol strategy, including guest group segmentation and corresponding levels of Protocol services.
- Develop and implement Protocol guidelines, policies, and decision-making frameworks (e.g. VVIP seating principles, order of precedence).
- Lead the planning and delivery of Protocol services for VVIP/VIP guests and dignitaries across all official FIFA event sites.
- Act as the key liaison with government authorities, embassies, and official delegations before and during the tournament.
- Oversee interactions with high-ranking guests, ensuring compliance with Protocol standards and expectations.
- Define and coordinate Protocol requirements across venues, including VVIP/VIP seating, lounges, drop-off zones, and guest flows.
- Provide guidance and supervision to the Protocol team and coordinate with external partners and guest Protocol representatives.
- Oversee Protocol-related services, including seating planning, forms of address, ceremonial arrangements, and official welcoming procedures.
- Collaborate with FIFA Zurich and relevant functional areas to ensure alignment of Protocol services with overall Guest Operations delivery.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Attend site visits and inspections.
YOUR PROFILE
Education:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in International Relations, Political Science, Business Management, Hospitality Management, or a related field.
- Specialization in protocol, diplomacy, or international organizations is an advantage.
Experience:
- Extensive experience in protocol management, government relations, or diplomatic environments, including interaction with high-level stakeholders.
- 5+ years of relevant professional experience in protocol, guest management, or international relations, preferably within large-scale events or complex organizational environments.
- Proven experience working with government authorities, embassies, and official delegations.
- Experience in defining and implementing protocol frameworks, guidelines, and service delivery standards.
- Experience in planning and delivering protocol services in event environments, including on-site operations is an advantage.
- Ideally experience within a sport/event organisation or large-scale international project, preferably in a world-class event environment.
Skills & Competencies:
- Fluent Portuguese and English (spoken and written) with excellent communication skills.
- Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage effectively with high-level dignitaries and officials.
- High level of diplomacy and cultural awareness in handling sensitive Protocol interactions.
- Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to manage complex requirements across multiple venues.
- Proven problem-solving skills and ability to operate in dynamic, high-pressure environments.
- Strong project management skills and ability to oversee multiple workstreams.
- Ability to develop and implement structured guidelines and processes.
- Collaborative mindset with the ability to work across cross-functional teams.
- Advanced MS Office skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Certifications & Requirements:
- Project Management certification or equivalent experience is an advantage.
- Relevant certifications in protocol, diplomacy, or event management are a plus.
- Right to work in Brazil.
- Ability to re-locate to Rio de Janeiro.