Behind the Scenes: The Venue Technology Manager (VTM) – The Unsung Hero of Major Sport Events
Have you ever wondered how all the technology at a major sports event—from Wi-Fi and broadcast systems to scoreboards and timing sensors—gets set up and runs flawlessly?
The answer lies with the Venue Technology Manager (VTM), the central figure orchestrating this complex symphony of technology. While the athletes and ceremonies take centre stage, VTMs work behind the scenes to ensure every piece of technology functions seamlessly, collaborating with other functional areas to make a memorable event.
What Does a Venue Technology Manager (VTM) Do?
A VTM is essentially the conductor of the technology orchestra at a sports venue. They don’t need to be an expert in every single technology (TEC) domain, but they do need to be an exceptional project manager, coordinator, and problem-solver. Their responsibilities include overseeing:
Telecommunications (Wi-Fi, radios, fiber optics)
IT Systems (networks, cybersecurity, hardware)
Audio-Visual (AV) (screens, speakers, live feeds)
Timing & Scoring Systems (critical for fair and accurate competition!)
Broadcast Operations (TV, streaming, media distribution)
From planning and installation to competition operations, the VTM ensures every technology team has the necessary infrastructure, power, and connectivity. Without them, the entire event could grind to a halt. The best preparation comes from creating strong relationships with all stakeholders and other functional areas on venue.
As a VTM, you interact with all functional areas (FAs) – referring to the various teams that work on a sports venue such as Events Management, Hospitality, Food & Beverage, Technology and many more… As a VTM it is your responsibility to gather the technology requirements for all FAs. Key areas to get familiar with are Venues & Infrastructure (VNI) and Energy (NRG) as they supply all the cable pathways and supply power for the end-user devices.
Is This Role as Intimidating as It Sounds?
For someone who has never been a VTM before, the role might seem overwhelming. After all, the VTM is at the core of all venue operations—everyone relies on them because everyone needs technology to do their job.
But here’s the rewarding part:
They enable athletes, officials, and broadcasters to perform at their best.
Creating seamless experiences for fans, both on-site and watching remotely.
If all goes to plan, there might be time to enjoy the event (and maybe even catch some world-record performances!).
Key Qualities of a Great VTM
What does it take to excel in this high-stakes role? Some essential traits include:
Leadership & Communication – Coordinating multiple teams with different priorities.
Problem-Solving Under Pressure – Technology issues will arise; how they are handled matters.
Big-Picture Thinking – Balancing immediate needs with long-term event goals.
Adaptability – No two days (or venues) are the same.
Could you see yourself in this role?
How Can You Become a VTM?
There are many pathways to becoming a VTM. The TEC FA is quite a large team with many options of roles to get started in. An option could be to build your way up through technical roles and transition to management roles as you progress through different events. A VTM usually has a deputy by their side (DVTM), which is also a great way to learn about the responsibilities and deliverables before taking on the manager role. There are also degrees / training programs which can help you prepare for this role. Legacy Groupe has it’s own training program (TEC GEN), from which graduates have gone on to manage technology at major events—including the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games! TEC GEN equips you with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence to step into this career.
👉 Interested in taking our Career Development Assessment? We started this initiative to help TEC professional and aspiring professionals to reflect on their current career, skillset and mindset, aiming to give you direction and develop your career. Find out here how we can support you.
