Job Description

About Arena

Arena is an international integrated event services company. The company provides event solutions, designing and delivering temporary environments to a variety of sporting, commercial and cultural events across the globe.

With a global reach that extends from the US, UK and Middle East & Asia, Arena prides themselves on their ability to provide the 'Arena Standard' around the world. Offering a truly tailored and bespoke experience with an extensive product offering around the world, Arena "turn space into place."

Flagship recurring events include the Olympics, Rugby World Cup, Miami F1, Ryder Cup, European Tour, US Open, PGA Tour, European Tour.

For more info: https://arenaamericas.com

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Equity-Deserving Communities, including individuals from racialized backgrounds, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, low-income individuals, youth, women, recent newcomers, 2SLGBTQ2+ people, and others who have historically faced barriers to equal opportunities.

In collaboration with City-endorsed Employment Service Providers, we prioritize recruiting applicants from communities that face barriers to employment while ensuring that all qualified candidates receive fair consideration.

Position Description

Job Title: Overlay Project Manager - Hospitality

Reporting Into: Overlay Operations Director, North America

Direct Reports: Project Coordinator(s), Site Managers

Job Objective:

The Project Manager will oversee the planning, execution, and successful delivery of overlay projects and hospitality solutions at BMO Field, Toronto for the FIFA World Cup 2026. This role requires a deep understanding of project management within major event contexts--including overlay installation and the conceptual design, fit-out, and delivery of hospitality spaces. The successful candidate will ensure alignment with client expectations, budgets, and timelines, while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and compliance. Extensive experience in major events and knowledge of Toronto's union landscape is highly beneficial.

Key Responsibilities: Operational Leadership & Project Execution

Develop and execute comprehensive operational strategies for both overlay and hospitality solutions. Oversee end-to-end operations, including planning, procurement, staffing, logistics, and on-site execution, ensuring seamless integration of hospitality elements. Align operational goals with regional and global company objectives to drive profitability and efficiency. Implement continuous process improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, quality, and client satisfaction.

Overlay & Hospitality Planning

Coordinate the planning and management of overlay projects from inception to completion Coordinate the delivery of temporary hospitality structures, furniture, and amenities, ensuring that operational schedules align with hospitality requirements and client timelines. Oversee the conceptual design, fit-out, and execution of hospitality spaces as part of the BMO Field expansion.

Team Leadership & Performance Management

Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team of Project Coordinators and Site Managers, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration. Set performance targets and use KPIs to measure and improve team effectiveness. Facilitate regular team meetings and project briefings to ensure clear communication and alignment.

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

Act as the primary point of contact for key clients, ensuring that both overlay and hospitality elements meet premium standards and reflect tailored solutions. Liaise with clients, internal teams, and external partners to align operational priorities with event requirements. Address client inquiries, concerns, and feedback proactively to foster long-term relationships.

Vendor and Contractor Coordination

Oversee relationships with suppliers, contractors, and vendors to ensure the timely delivery of goods and services for both overlay and hospitality aspects. Negotiate and manage vendor agreements to ensure compliance with budgets, quality expectations, and project timelines. Coordinate with logistics teams to track material deliveries, optimize storage, and manage on-site operations.

Budgeting & Financial Management

Prepare and manage project budgets, forecasts, and expenditure reports, ensuring financial discipline. Monitor project profitability, including tracking hospitality-related costs, and implement corrective actions as needed. Propose cost-effective solutions without compromising quality across all project elements

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Compliance, Safety & Risk Management

Ensure that all overlay and hospitality operations comply with local health, safety, and environmental regulations, including OSHA and relevant Canadian standards. Utilize AutoCAD and related software to review designs and ensure adherence to local building codes. Conduct regular site inspections and enforce safety protocols to maintain a secure working environment. Identify potential risks and develop proactive mitigation strategies to prevent delays or cost overruns.

Required Skills/Abilities:

Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to coordinate cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment. Exceptional project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Extensive experience in managing major events, with a focus on both overlay and hospitality project delivery. Knowledge of Toronto's union operations and event-specific challenges is highly beneficial. Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, with the ability to manage multiple stakeholders simultaneously. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Suite, and project management software (e.g., Smartsheet, Asana, WeTrack). Proven ability to manage budgets, financial reporting, and vendor negotiations effectively.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Event Management, Hospitality, Construction Management, or a related field. Minimum of 5 years of experience in project management within the events, sports, or live entertainment industry. Previous experience managing large-scale international sporting events or overlay/hospitality projects is highly preferred. Experience working with overlay or temporary structures is highly beneficial.

Working Arrangements:

AES Canada is based in downtown Toronto and will actively encourage employees to be office based, but flexible working arrangements can be made. However, candidates must be available to work on-site from

November 2025 to July 2026

with limited alternative arrangements. The role may require extended hours and weekend work during critical project phases.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commitment:

We actively track our recruitment efforts to meet our diversity and inclusion goals--for this project, we aim to fill at least 25% of our Project Management team from Equity-Deserving Communities--and regularly assess the progress of these initiatives to maintain equitable hiring practices.

Furthermore, we offer professional development and training programs to support the career growth of all employees, with a particular focus on individuals from underrepresented groups.

We are also committed to providing accommodations for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process to foster a welcoming and accessible environment for everyone.

Job Type: Fixed term contract
Contract length: 18-20 months

Pay: $80,000.00-$130,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental care
Schedule:

8 hour shift Evening shift Monday to Friday Night shift Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person