Academy Operations Manager

About the role

Vancouver Whitecaps FC is seeking an organized, proactive, and solutions‑oriented Manager, Academy Operations to provide operational and administrative leadership across the MLS Academy. This role ensures smooth delivery of team travel, match‑day operations, scheduling, registration, player services, financial administration, billet programming, and player relocation support.

Key responsibilities

• Lead day‑to‑day operational and administrative coordination for Academy teams and programs.
• Manage team calendars, schedules, field bookings, communications, tickets, accreditation, and program events.
• Plan and execute all Academy team travel logistics, including flights, accommodations, transportation, meals, insurance, itineraries, and on‑site support.
• Serve as primary contact for players and parents on non‑technical matters, providing timely support.
• Coordinate Billet Program logistics, including player arrivals and departures, host‑family administration, and related communications.
• Oversee player and staff registration with leagues and governing bodies such as Canada Soccer Connect and FIFA TMS.
• Support development and management of annual operational and team travel budgets, handling purchase orders, vendor payments, and expense reconciliation.
• Coordinate logistics for Academy trialists, including invitations, travel, meals, per diems, itineraries, and documentation.

Required profile

• 3‑5+ years of experience in sports operations, team administration, event operations, travel coordination, or a similar operational role.
• Strong organizational and project‑management skills with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proven experience coordinating travel, budgets, vendors, registrations, and logistics.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building abilities with players, families, staff, vendors, and external organisations.
• High attention to detail and accountability when handling sensitive information, documentation, and compliance requirements.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and travel with teams as required.
• Experience in professional or youth sport is an asset.
• Knowledge of soccer operations, Canada Soccer, FIFA, MLS, or related governing bodies is an asset.