Host City Operations Manager (Men's RWC 2027)

Closing date for applications is 18th August 2026

Full-time Fixed Term Contract start October 2026 until November 2027

Location: Brisbane or Perth

The Rugby World Cup Australia (RWCA) is proud to deliver one of the world’s most iconic sporting events — the Rugby World Cup 2027 (Men’s). More than a tournament, it’s a celebration of Rugby’s spirit, Australia’s culture, and the power of sport to unite and inspire communities around the world.

Rugby World Cup Australia is excited to announce we are seeking aHost City Operations Managerto join our Tournament Operations team! Reporting to the Head of Government Engagement and City Operations, either based inBrisbane or Perth, this role is responsible for managing the operational relationship between government stakeholders and Rugby World Cup Australia (RWCA) to ensure all government obligations are delivered smoothly and on time. Acting as the primary liaison with host city officials and agencies, the position coordinates planning and delivery across transport, security, policing, medical, city activations, team services, and venue integration. It leads host territory working groups, manages information flow between the Rugby World Cup Australia (RWCA), World Rugby and government partners, monitors contractual milestones and deliverables, and represents the RWCA in host city planning forums and tournament-time operations.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

- Act as the primary liaison between RWCA and designated host city officials, agencies, and departments.
- Coordinate with RWCA Functional Areas, WorldRugbyand Host Cities to deliver on the full range of obligations set out in Host Territory Agreements.
- Facilitate operational planning across Host Cities, with regards to traffic and transport planning, host city activations, security and policing, medical coordination,team servicesrequirementsand venue integration.
- Act as the key liaison between RWCA marketing and communications team and relevant government agencies.
- Manage regular Host Territory working groups, ensuringtimelyinformation sharing, reporting and issue resolution.
- Provide detailed information to the Head of GovernmentEngagement and City Operations, Functional Areasand World Rugby and elevate risks or unresolved issuesin a timely manner.




- Monitor and manage the progress of Host Territory and RWCA deliverables,milestonesand payment schedulesin accordance withcontractual obligations and stakeholder requirements.
- Represent the RWCA at host city planning meetings and during the tournament period.
- Supportgovernment reporting obligations through preparation of updates, presentations, and briefings.
- Assistin the planning, development, and successful delivery ofRWC2027 Fan Festivals andFan Activation Zones within the Host City,ensuring alignment withthe tournament’sbrand, fan engagementobjectives, and operational requirements.

Qualifications & Experience

- 7–10 years’ project management experience, ideally across complex, multi-stakeholder or government-led environments.
- 5+ years’ experience in major event delivery, government liaison, or city operations, with direct exposure to host city agencies, inter-agency coordination, or public-sector partnerships.
- Robust understanding of city planning processes, transport planning, community activation, and operational integration across government and event functions.
- Demonstrated ability to influence, negotiate, and engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior officials within government, public sector agencies, and international partners.
- Experience contributing to strategic brand, marketing or public-facing activation plans, with the ability to connect operational delivery to broader event objectives.
- Excellent communication skills, highly personable, and able to build solid, trusted relationships quickly across diverse stakeholder groups.
- Proven ability to collaborate across functional areas, ensuring alignment, information flow and delivery of shared objectives.
- Strong leadership capability, with experience guiding cross-functional groups and supporting a high-performance culture during planning and tournament periods.
- Exceptional attention to detail, highly organised, with the ability to prioritise,



work across multiple projects, and maintain composure under pressure.
- Ability to work effectively in rapid-paced, deadline-driven environments, with a commitment to high-quality delivery and follow-through.
- Flexibility to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and event-time schedules as required.
- Experience working in international or multicultural contexts, with an understanding of cross-cultural communication and diverse stakeholder needs.

Why You’ll Love It Here

- Competitive salary: We know world-class talent deserves to be rewarded.
- Brisbane or Perth location: Remote working opportunity with travel to our modern Sydney office,just a 5-minute walk from Town Hall, surrounded by public transport, great cafes, restaurants, and shops.
- Wellbeing first: Virtual lunch & learns and a focus on keeping our team feeling their best on and off the field.
- Team spirit: Weekly in-person drinks and social catchups that celebrate wins big and small.
- Make your mark:Play a key role in bringing thethird largest sporting event in the world to life right here in Australia!

Australia’s hosting of the Rugby World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to grow the game, celebrate our people and culture, and deliver lasting social and economic impact. At the heart of our mission is diversity, inclusion, and legacy ensuring Rugby’s growth benefits all and inspires a new generation of players, fans, and communities. Join us in shaping an unforgettable celebration of Rugby, culture, and community.

In setting expectations, there will be a virtual 2-round interview process.

All applicants need to be able to obtain their own unlimited working rights in Australia.

We do not accept unsolicited CVs from recruitment agencies and no fees will be payable.

Rugby World Cup Australia is committed to building a diverse workforce and therefore strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups. We are committed to equality and inclusion and welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of their backgroundand are happy to provide reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process.We strive to be a diverse and inclusive workplace, which reflects the global sport we want to be and where everyone can be themselves and feel they belong.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Host City Operations Manager (Men's RWC 2027) (Pooncarie)
🏢 Rugby Australia
📍 Pooncarie