Senior Protocol Manager

Organisation: Glasgow 2026
Salary: Starting salary is from £60,000. Salary offered will be based on demonstrated skills and experience related to this role.
Location: Glasgow
Contract type: Fixed Term (Full time)
Closing date: 8 February 2026
Interview date: 15 February 2026
Job Description: 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! 

If you have a passion for sport and a drive for excellence and want to be part of creating something truly special, then Glasgow 2026 wants you. 

The Role

The Senior Protocol Manager role will lead a high performing team responsible for the planning and delivery of Protocol activity related to the Games. You will be responsible for working with our Organising Company team and Protocol Integration Managers employed by our embedded event delivery partner.

You will have experience of leading Protocol at a major event / high-profile project and/or a complex political environment. You will have strong communication and influencing skills, the ability to build confidence with senior leaders, and the stakeholder management skills to maintain a high reputation for the Games.

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.

Key Skills and Experience: 

To be successful in this role you will have senior level experience in protocol, ceremonial or dignitary management within a major event, high profile project and complex stakeholder environment.

You will bring inspiring communications skills and have the ability to impart complex information with ease. Managing stakeholders is a key part of the role and you should have experience at engaging and influencing others at all levels. Having strong team management skills is key and if you have the ability to lead and develop at pace, even better!

The ideal candidate will have proven experience managing multiple projects with conflicting deadlines, multiple partners and tight timelines. In addition, a strong political acumen and understanding of the functioning of the government is desired.

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. 
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, visit our website. To apply, send your CV along with a 250-word summary (or video/voice note) of why you want to be part of our team to recruitment@glasgow2026.com.  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.