Director Accreditation - FIFA World Cup 26™

THE ROLE  

The Accreditation Director will lead the On Location Accreditation process in collaboration with FIFA for all On Location Workforce and Vendors for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. This leadership role demands close coordination with Workforce Operations, key Functional Areas (FAs) such as Event Delivery, Affiliates, Executives, local vendors supporting On Location’s Hospitality Operations, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless access to venues and hospitality spaces across the three Host Countries and 16 Host Cities. 

The Accreditation Director will be responsible for developing and implementing systems to gather access requirements and ensure accurate data collection. Working closely with FIFA, the Director will oversee the submission of all information into the FIFA accreditation tool, adhering to strict timelines and deadlines. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, collaboration, and operational skills, driving an efficient and streamlined accreditation process for the On Location Workforce and Vendors. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Collaborate with FIFA to thoroughly understand the Tournament Accreditation matrix, required information, data submission platforms, and all relevant deadlines, ensuring alignment with event specifications. 

• Lead and manage a team of accreditation staff, fostering strong working relationships with FIFA and key On Location contacts in each Host City to ensure smooth operations across all locations. 

• Coordinate with the Workforce Operations (WFO) Team to implement and oversee systems for accurate data collection and ensure seamless integration with the broader accreditation framework. 

• Partner with key Event Delivery Functional Areas to gather and define access requirements for all Workforce members and local Vendors, ensuring compliance with event protocols. 

• Oversee Workforce and Vendor communications, providing clear guidelines for data submission, offering ongoing support for applications, and delivering detailed instructions for Accreditation collection processes. 

• Develop and enforce accreditation policies and procedures, ensuring that all On Location accredited workforce adhere to event regulations, security protocols, and best practices. 

• Provide comprehensive support for any accreditation-related issues, both leading up to the event and during operations, ensuring timely resolutions and minimal disruption. 

• (OVH???Design and implement an access control system in collaboration with relevant Delivery Functional Areas and On Location Security Teams. Ensure the integration of effective tools, technology, and resources to manage onsite operations, and develop necessary policies and communications for access control, including security access devices) 

QUALIFICATIONS  

Education & Experience: 

• Bachelor's Degree in Project Management, Hospitality, Sports Management, Business, or a related field preferred, or equivalent professional experience. 

• Proven experience in leading and managing teams, with a distinct advantage if you've overseen teams across multiple locations. 

• Strong background in large-scale event operations, demonstrating an ability to navigate complex logistics and high pressure environments. 

• Hands-on experience in Accreditation operations, specifically processing high-volume access requirements for major events. 

• Prior involvement in major sporting events is highly beneficial, with a preference for experience working with large, international teams. 

• Familiarity with FIFA's operations and working within one of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Host Countries or Cities is highly advantageous. 

Skills & Abilities: 

• Exceptional project management skills, with a strong focus on organization, problem-solving, and meticulous attention to detail. 

• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, able to effectively collaborate and engage with stakeholders at all levels. 

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting quickly to changing circumstances. 

• Extensive experience working with Event Management, Candidate Management Systems, and Accreditation tools, ensuring seamless processes and data integrity. 

• Proficient in analyzing data related to access requirements, with a focus on accuracy and trends. 

• Demonstrated ability to manage and inspire a team, delivering results across multiple locations or event sites. 

• Self-motivated with the ability to work autonomously in remote settings, maintaining high standards of performance and accountability. 

• A collaborative team player with a flexible, positive attitude, eager to contribute to a successful event execution. 

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS  

• Must be flexible with work hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.  

• Domestic travel will be required, with an estimated travel range of 10-15% annually.