Manager, Government Relations, World Cup 2026

Reporting Structure

Reporting organisationally to the Director, Government Relations & Public Engagement, the Government Relations Manager will be a key member of the FIFA26 Strategy & Planning team. The role involves close collaboration with key individuals responsible for strategic engagement with government entities at the international, US federal, and state and local levels. The goal is to ensure effective communication, collaboration, and compliance for a smooth and successful FIFA World Cup 2026. The position is based in Washington, DC.

The Position

The main responsibilities of the Government Relations Manager for the FIFA World Cup 26™ include:

• Supporting the Director of Government Relations in implementing a comprehensive public engagement strategy for the FIFA World Cup 2026, ensuring close communication and coordination with relevant stakeholders and functional areas.
• Managing coordination and communication with key stakeholders, including elected officials, government relations officials at FWC26 partner organizations, university officials, non-profits, and other entities interested in partnerships that support the goals of the World Cup.
• Supporting the Government Relations team in tracking and maintaining strong relationships with key entities across the United States to facilitate productive partnerships.
• Supporting integration within FWC26 of key federal and local government-related initiatives, including public relations campaigns, community outreach programs, and sustainability initiatives, in alignment with the goals of the World Cup and Club World Cups.
• Supporting coordination with FWC26 Canada and FWC26 Mexico government relations personnel on all cross-border public-engagement, legacy, and cultural initiatives.
• Preparing and delivering presentations, briefings, planning documents, and reports to key stakeholders on critical issues for the planning and implementation of both tournaments.

Your Profile

• University degree in an appropriate subject (or adequate training/vocational education).
• Innovative and creative.
• Solution-oriented with strong attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and organizational skills.
• Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
• Positive attitude, patience, and persistence.
• Sound judgment and ability to prioritize tasks.
• International, cross-cultural work experiences preferred.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in government relations or stakeholder management.
• Experience in implementing public engagement plans or campaigns.
• Awareness of current Federal initiatives and government policy planning.
• Knowledge of event planning and project management processes.
• Experience in developing and integrating outreach and amplification plans.
• Fluent in English; Spanish and/or French proficiency is a plus.
• Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, Visio & Project), planning software, and online collaboration tools.

About FWC2026

The FIFA World Cup 26™ will mark the first time that the tournament features 48 teams and will be hosted by three countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

This new format redefines excellence, generating unique opportunities for greater participation and engagement from fans and players in North America and around the world. Now is your time to be a game-changer and join the workforce that is planning and delivering this unique and unforgettable experience.

Learn more here