At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage relationships with government partners for the UEFA EURO 2028 event.
- Company: Join the local organising committee for a landmark international sporting event.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, pension, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a historic event and make a real impact in sports management.
- Qualifications: Experience in government roles and project management in dynamic environments.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Wembley Stadium, London (with travel across the UK & Ireland)
Contract: Fixed-term | October 2026 – Summer 2028
About UK & Ireland 2028 Limited
UK & Ireland 2028 Limited is the local organising committee responsible for delivering UEFA EURO 2028 across the UK & Ireland. We work on behalf of the five Football Associations and in partnership with governments, host cities, stadiums and delivery partners to plan and deliver the tournament safely, inclusively and to world-class standards.
About UEFA EURO 2028
UEFA EURO is one of the world’s largest sporting events. In 2028, it will be hosted across multiple cities in the UK & Ireland, requiring large-scale coordination across transport, infrastructure, stadiums and public services. UEFA owns the tournament and sets requirements; UK & Ireland 2028 Limited is responsible for delivering it locally.
The Role
The post holder will play a central role in managing the relationship between UK&I 2028 and Government Partners (UK Government, Government of Ireland, Scottish Government, Welsh Government and Northern Ireland Executive). The successful post holder will support Government Partners to deliver their tournament responsibilities & objectives and guide UK&I 2028 teams and Government Partners to work together.
What you’ll be doing
- Manage effective working relationships between UK&I 2028 and Government Partners at working level, supporting Government Partners to deliver on their tournament responsibilities and objectives.
- Work with Government Partners to ensure successful and timely implementation of Government Guarantees and associated legislation.
- Manage UK&I 2028 input to Government Partner governance and assurance, including preparation of papers and slides for Government Partner Group.
- Retain oversight of Government Partner input into UK&I 2028 operational governance.
- Manage UK&I 2028 input to government communications (FOIs, Parliamentary Questions, ministerial briefings etc.), liaising with internal teams as required.
- Provide advice and guidance to UK&I 2028 teams on working with Government Partners, optimising relations and effective delivery, in areas such as finance, mobility and safety & security.
- Support Government Partner interactions with the Integrated Programme Management Office.
- Manage Government Partner invites to UK&I 2028 and UEFA events.
- Line management of the Government Relations Coordinator, supporting their performance and creating an inclusive and high-performing team culture.
What we’re looking for
Essential experience and skills
- An in-depth understanding of the workings of Government (central and devolved).
- Experience working in a government department or agency in a managerial role, ideally in an events environment.
- Understanding of Government’s role in the delivery of major sporting events and how the tournament could support the delivery of government objectives.
- Proven track record of managing projects in dynamic environments, including effective management of risks and issues.
How you’ll succeed
- Adaptable – leads in complex environments.
- Catalyst – enables and motivates others.
- Critical Thinker – makes sound decisions.
- Inclusion – creates inclusive team environments.
- Performance Focus – drives results and standards.
- Positive Impact – shows resilience and solutions focus.
- Pride – sets and upholds standards.
- Relationship Manager – builds trusted partnerships.
Why apply?
We offer a competitive salary and benefits (including 25 days holiday, pension and private medical insurance), alongside the opportunity to be part of a landmark international sporting event.
Location & Working Pattern
Based at Wembley Stadium, with travel across the UK & Ireland as required.
- 2026: 3 days/week onsite
- 2027: 3–4 days/week onsite
- 2028: Full-time onsite during tournament delivery
Application Process
Our process is designed to be clear and fair:
- Application review.
- Online assessment (role dependent).
- Interview(s) – typically first stage via MS Teams and final stage in Wembley Stadium.
- Offer.
We aim to keep candidates informed throughout.
Everyone is welcome – We’re hiring for excellence through inclusion. We’re building a skilled, values-led workforce that reflects the diversity of the UK and Ireland. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and don’t expect a traditional career path. We’re happy to make reasonable adjustments—please contact careers@uki2028.com. All roles are subject to appropriate DBS checks.
Government Relations Manager employer: UK & Ireland 2028
UK & Ireland 2028 Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to be part of the historic UEFA EURO 2028 tournament. With a commitment to inclusivity and employee development, we provide competitive salaries, generous benefits, and a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. Located at the iconic Wembley Stadium, our team enjoys a vibrant environment with opportunities for travel across the UK and Ireland, making this role not just a job, but a chance to contribute to a landmark international sporting event.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Government Relations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to folks who work in government relations. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Research is key! Familiarise yourself with the current landscape of government relations, especially in the context of major sporting events. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Think about how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Government Relations Manager role. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've managed relationships and projects in dynamic environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and being part of something as exciting as UEFA EURO 2028!
We think you need these skills to ace Government Relations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:When crafting your application, keep in mind who will be reading it. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with the values and objectives of UK & Ireland 2028 Limited. Show us that you understand the importance of government relations in delivering a major sporting event.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase your experience in government roles or events management. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Government Relations Manager. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in managing relationships and projects.
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant, and make sure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see why you're a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on being part of our team and the exciting journey ahead!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK & Ireland 2028
✨Know Your Government Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of how the UK and Irish governments operate, especially in relation to major events. Brush up on recent legislation and government initiatives that could impact UEFA EURO 2028, as this will show your commitment and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of past projects you've managed, particularly in dynamic environments. Be ready to discuss how you handled risks and issues, as well as how you ensured successful outcomes. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive under pressure, which is crucial for this role.
✨Build Relationships Like a Pro
Think about how you can effectively manage relationships with various stakeholders. Prepare to discuss strategies you've used in the past to build trust and collaboration, especially in a government context. Highlighting your relationship management skills will be key to impressing the interviewers.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to government relations and event management. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making skills in these scenarios, as it will showcase your critical thinking and adaptability—qualities they are looking for.
