Senior Government Activation Manager

Help Us Shape the Future of the Commonwealth Games – Glasgow 2026! The journey to Glasgow 2026 starts now – and we want YOU to be part of it! Get ready for a brilliant new era for the Commonwealth Games, blending world-class sport with a sustainable, future-focused vision. In 6 months, Glasgow will transform into a global hub for sport and culture, welcoming 3,000 athletes from 74 nations, across 11 days of unforgettable action, fuelled by the city’s unstoppable energy and passion. Glasgow 2026 is set to revolutionise the Games, with a bold experience that reflects the city’s resilience and innovation. This is more than just an event; it’s a movement – a celebration of unity, equality, and sporting excellence. A movement that will not only deliver a world-class sporting experience but will also create a lasting legacy, maximising social and economic benefits for the city and the Commonwealth. Don’t miss your chance to be part of something historic!

The Role

The Senior Government Activation Manager is a brand-new role within the CEO office, designed to galvanise relationships and drive the positive sentiment surrounding the Games into tangible action and activity both nationally and internationally. You will be a strong advocate for the Games with our strategic partners across Scotland and the UK. Glasgow 2026 is a £150m investment and receives no public funding. The event does, however, represent a unique opportunity for local and national public bodies or agencies to deliver aligned strategic programmes or initiatives to realise positive outcomes for communities.

As the Senior Government Activation Manager, you will build confidence in our delivery plans and be unafraid of challenging stakeholders to do more to maximise the opportunity of Glasgow stepping up to host the Games for the whole of Scotland and the UK. This role will work closely with our Public Affairs Manager who leads our political engagement and external relations with Governments. The successful candidate will bring a strong understanding of the workings of central and local governments and know how to drive action by fostering strong relationships that unlock resources to move at pace.

Our Strategic Partnerships department is based within the CEO office and is at the heart of building the culture, values and ethos required for this world-class event to enhance the city and nation’s reputation. You will be working with a passionate team of professionals and leaders who are committed to showcasing Glasgow and Scotland on the international stage as well as delivering excellence for athletes, national partners and our communities. This role focuses on making ideas a reality. You will work closely with teams across the Organising Company, including Stakeholders Relations and Protocol, Public Engagement, Media & Communications, City Operations and City Activations to build and execute integrated delivery plans with shared purpose for high profile global events.

Key Skills and Experience:

• To be successful in this role you will have a strong understanding of a devolved Administration Government and UK Government structures and their respective decision-making processes.
• Practical working knowledge of engaging with arms-length bodies and national agencies of Government is desired.
• This role requires strong communication, collaboration and the ability to influence and provide constructive challenge to external partners.
• Excellent written communication skills, including experience delivering briefings for senior audiences will be essential for the role.
• A strong political acumen and understanding of the functioning of the government is desired.
• A knowledge of sport, culture, major events or international events is desired to ensure that you can be a success in the role.

Why Glasgow 2026?

Joining the Glasgow 2026 team means being part of something extraordinary. As we embark on this exciting journey, we’re not just planning an event – we’re creating a new legacy for Glasgow and the Commonwealth. This is an opportunity to shape the future of major sporting events, bringing the world together for 11 days of unforgettable competition and culture. We’re looking for well-organised, passionate, and driven people who are excited to roll up their sleeves and be part of an inclusive, forward-thinking, and sustainable Games. This is your chance to help set the new standard for global events while contributing to the city’s rich sporting legacy.

Salary: Starting salary is from £62,500. Salary offered will be based on demonstrated skills and experience related to this role.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to be part of something historic, we want to hear from you! For more information about the role and a detailed job description, please visit our website linked. At Glasgow 2026, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are proud to be a Disability Confident Committed employer. If you need assistance with your application, our Recruitment Team is here to support you with any reasonable adjustments. Please note that candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK, which we request is confirmed as part of the application process. This is a mandatory requirement for consideration of the role. The closing date is the 8th February 2026.