Manager of Events and Experiences

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the successful delivery of events, including hospitality at approximately 10 IndyCar races each season, premium events, team celebrations, and facility-based experiences, leading guest services, communications, partner activations, catering, logistics, and on-site experience.
• Research and leverage new technology to enhance brand experience for guests and partners during events.
• Create and execute strategic plans for event and hospitality delivery, measuring and adjusting strategies to meet goals within budget.
• Support the vision of McLaren Racing's brand experience delivery for IndyCar and growth opportunities for North American racing.
• Manage team assets such as event credentials, ticketing, passes, and related assets.
• Manage budgets, timelines, vendor contracts, and post-event reporting focusing on efficiency, revenue opportunities, and cost optimization.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify and build incremental revenue opportunities with hospitality assets.
• Foster industry relationships and support negotiations with circuits, venues, agencies, and third-party vendors.
• Travel to race events and major activities as needed, approximately 30%-40% during race season.
• Create, review, and manage agreements related to event execution and hospitality services.
• Drive post-event reporting and continuous improvement efforts with recaps and actionable feedback.
• Lead the gifting strategy for Arrow McLaren, including partner and guest gifting initiatives, managing budget and inventory.
• Create and implement hosting and guest experience programs for the new facility.
• Maintain relationships within the wider McLaren Racing Brand Experience department to share best practices and ensure cohesive brand identity.
• Ensure adherence to McLaren Health & Safety standards at all events, including vendor compliance and promoting sustainability.
• Stay current with industry trends, competitor activities, and innovation to evolve the guest experience.
• Work closely with partnerships, marketing, communications, and AMEC teams to ensure brand alignment and maximize event impact.
• Support DEI initiatives in event strategy, vendor selection, and brand portrayal.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Event Management, Sports Management, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in event planning, corporate hospitality, or partner activation, preferably in sports, luxury, or automotive industries.
• Experience managing VIP events and high-end guest experiences.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think creatively and problem-solve in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
• Proficiency with event management software, project management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Willingness to travel extensively during race season and work weekends/events as needed.

Nice to Have

• Passion for motorsport or experience in the sports/events industry.

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) Retirement match
• Voluntary life, short-term, and long-term disability benefits
• Annual bonus plan
• Competitive time off plan
• Team discounts, including kit apparel