Manager of Events and Experiences

Arrow McLaren is the McLaren Racing IndyCar team located on the West side of Indianapolis. By joining our team, you’ll be part of an exhilarating racing program that’s aiming to change the sport for the better by setting the standard for performance.

McLaren values:

Innovative – Respectful – Inclusive – Energetic – Brave

We want members of this team to approach each day with a simple goal in mind: To build better race cars and build a better race team. Focus on the process, enjoy the process of continual improvement, and let the results take care of themselves.

Purpose of the Role: The Manager of Events and Experiences will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of all partner and team-related events and hospitality programs. This individual will be responsible for ensuring each event reflects the excellence of our brand, creates value for our partners, and strengthens the community around our team.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Oversee the successful delivery of events, including best-in-class hospitality at approximately 10 IndyCar races each season, premium events, team celebrations, and facility-based experiences, leading guest services and communications, partner activations, catering, logistics, and on-site experience.

• Research and leverage new technology to enhance brand experience in how our guests and partners interact with our brand and experience our events.

• Create and execute strategic plans for event and hospitality delivery, continuously measuring and adjusting strategies to meet goals within budget.

• Contribute to and support the vision of McLaren Racing’s brand experience delivery for IndyCar and growth opportunities for North American racing with a continued vision of amplifying and enhancing our brand internally and externally.

• Oversight of the process and management of team assets, including event credentials, ticketing, and other event passes and assets.

• Manage budgets, timelines, vendor contracts, and post-event reporting with a focus on efficiency, incremental revenue opportunities, and cost optimization.

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify and build incremental opportunities with hospitality assets to maximize revenue.

• Foster industry relationships and support negotiations with circuits, venues, agencies, and third-party vendors to maximize asset value for the team and partners.

• Travel to race events and other major activities as needed (approximately 30%-40% travel during race season with additional “off-season” travel as needed).

• Create, review, and manage effective agreements related to event execution and hospitality services.

• Drive post-event reporting and continuous improvement efforts by providing recaps and actionable feedback for future enhancements.

• Lead the gifting strategy for Arrow McLaren, including partner and guest gifting initiatives, managing budget and inventory.

• Create and implement hosting and guest experience program for our new facility.

• Maintain relationships within the wider McLaren Racing Brand Experience department to share best practices and execute a cohesive brand identity across all series.

• Ensure adherence to McLaren Health & Safety standards at all events, including compliance by all third-party vendors and suppliers while promoting sustainability where possible.

• Stay current with industry trends, competitor activities, and innovation to evolve the guest experience.

• Work closely with the partnerships, marketing, communications and AMEC teams to ensure brand alignment and maximize event impact.

• Commit to supporting DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives in event strategy, vendor selection, and brand portrayal.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Event Management, Sports Management, or a related field.

• 5+ years of experience in event planning, corporate hospitality, or partner activation, preferably in sports, luxury, or automotive industries.

• Experience managing VIP events and high-end guest experiences.

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.

• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to think creatively and problem-solve in dynamic, fast-paced environments.

• Proficiency with event management software, project management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Passion for motorsport or experience in the sports/events industry is a strong plus.

• Highly detail-oriented with a commitment to excellence.

• Calm under pressure and adaptable to changing needs and environments.

• Solutions oriented and very resourceful.

• Team player with a positive attitude and strong sense of ownership.

• Willingness to travel extensively during race season and work weekends/events as needed.

Total Rewards:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and vision benefits

• 401(k) Retirement match

• Voluntary life, short-term, and long-term disability benefits

• Annual bonus plan

• Competitive time off plan

• Team discounts, including kit apparel.

Arrow McLaren makes equal employment opportunities available to all without regard to race, color, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), age, religion, national origin, disability, citizenship status, military status, genetic information, or any other legally-protected category.