Director of Turf and Grounds

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U.S. Soccer Overview

The U.S. Soccer Federation exists in service to soccer. Our aim is to ignite a national passion for the game. Because we believe that soccer is more than a sport; it is a force for good.

We understand the importance and the power of teamwork, on and off the pitch. That's why we work closely with our Federation partners and members, to inspire, support and guide every level of the game: from the grassroots, to the National Teams. We want to bring soccer into every home and every community, right across America. Because we believe that soccer can transform lives like no other sport. Soccer can represent the best of US.

U.S. Soccer is in a period of significant growth, with ambitions plans for US soccer in the near and far future. We are therefore, looking for dynamic servant-leaders to join us on this journey: in service to soccer. Applicants must be able to demonstrate visionary leadership, analytical decision-making, professional flexibility and an empathic management style that builds bold teams and delivers globally significant results.

Position Description

The Director of Turf and Grounds will pay a critical role during the design and construction phases of U.S. Soccer's National Training Center (NTC) in Atlanta, Georgia. Once the NTC is fully open and functioning, the Director of Turf and Grounds will have oversight and management over the Groundskeeping functions for the NTC which includes the management of the functional areas that support the NTC including the physical grounds, equipment, and related systems on the property.

Primary Responsibilities

1. National Training Center (NTC) Construction Period

• Work alongside the Project Manager, General Contractor and Field Construction Team to deliver the NTC on time and on budget
• Coordinate with contractors and landscape architect to ensure alignment with project goals and specifications
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks or delays, and implement mitigation strategies as needed
• Conduct regular inspections and site visits to monitor field construction activities
• Raise and elevate any non-compliance or on-going project issues promptly and implement corrective actions as necessary
• Provide regular updates on project status, milestones achieved, and any significant developments
• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between the construction team and internal project leadership team (Strategy and Finance) to promote transparency and alignment
• Work independently to make real-time decisions during the construction process to keep the project on track

National Training Center Operating Period and Ongoing Duties

2. Develop strategy for creation of and build-out of Groundskeeping Team.

• Develop job descriptions, policies, procedures and schedules
• Recruit, hire and onboard Groundskeeping Team
• Provide direct oversight, direction, management and coordination of all functional areas within the Department and promote excellent working relationship with all departments, with the primary purpose to maintain the NTC at the highest level
• Ability to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment, promoting a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement and professional development

Grounds Operations

3. Develop agronomic policies, procedures, and maintenance schedules to ensure the long-term functionality and sustainability of the grounds

• Oversee, manage and coordinate the overall maintenance, management and condition of the property and upkeep to support training needs and all other activities that occur at the NTC
• Implement sustainable programs designed to establish and maintain the USSF NTC as a best-in-class professional soccer training facility
• Review, inspect and observe all areas of grounds operations at the NTC for compliance with applicable policies, laws, codes, regulations, ordinances and directives

Financial

• Development and implementation of approved grounds budget and mechanisms for cost control
• Development, submission and implementation of recommended grounds operation and capital outlay budgets and adjustments
• Research and analyze opportunities for improved efficiencies through outsourcing, consolidation or other operational techniques
• Oversee turf and grounds projects working with Director of Facility Operations while maintaining clear and constant communication

Strategic

• Establish, review and maintain contractual relationships with external partners, vendors, and service providers for the USSF NTC to deliver a best-in-class training environment
• Contribute to the development of long-term strategic plan for the USSF NTC. Implement facility grounds plan to support the organization's strategic plan and measure success
• Represent and promote the facility in industry associations and organizations and maintain liaison with competitive training facilities
• Act as liaison representative for the NTC, for Fayette County officials, Atlanta Convention, Visitors Bureau and other agencies/organizations in the sports, entertainment and convention industry
• Other duties, functions, special projects and responsibilities as assigned by the Director of Facility Operations

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience: Eight to Ten years of experience in turf and grounds management, preferably in a sports facility or similar environment. Experience in soccer facility management or operations is preferred.
• Knowledge: A strong understanding of grounds operations, including maintenance, scheduling, and budgeting. Knowledge of sports facility requirements, especially for soccer, is important.
• Leadership Skills: The ability to lead a team effectively, manage staff, and oversee operations smoothly. Experience in managing a diverse team is valuable.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential for interacting with staff, teams, vendors, and other stakeholders.
• Organizational Skills: The ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and ensure that operations run smoothly.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in using management software, scheduling tools, and other relevant technology.
• General knowledge of soccer
• Capable of working in fast-paced and demanding environments
• Must be able to connect "micro" details to the "macro" vision and mission
• Proficient experience with Microsoft Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)

Desired Qualifications

• Prior experience working at a sporting organization
• Proficient understanding in construction management and overseeing large construction projects
• Able and willing to work non-traditional hours including evenings and weekends on an ad-hoc basis
• Passion for soccer is a plus

U.S Soccer is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, citizenship, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, military status, political belief, or any other characteristic protected under the law. This policy applies to all our employment practices within our organization.

We strongly encourage women, people of color, LGBTQIA, veterans, parents, and persons with disabilities to apply.