Manager, Vehicle Access & Parking Permits (VAPPs)

Company Name: Transportation Management Services Inc. (TMS)
Position Type: Fixed Term Contract
Reports to: Associate Director Operations
Location: Kansas City, Missouri, United States

ABOUT TMS:

Transportation Management Services Inc. (TMS) is the global leader in ground transportation management, logistics, mobility, and venue solutions, renowned for delivering top-tier services for the world’s most complex events with unwavering confidence and integrity. With over 30 years of industry experience, we proudly reflect on managing transportation for more than 1,450 events and contracts, safely transporting over 120 million passengers. 

Our prestigious portfolio includes supporting events such as the FIFA World Cup, Olympic Games, Formula One, NBA, Kentucky Derby, Coachella, and major corporations like Microsoft and Google. We also support citywide events and trade shows such as NAHB, NAB, SEMA, NACS, and ICSC. As Kansas City prepares to host the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the world is watching.

TMS is honored to be delivering the KC2026 Transport Mobility Plan for the Tournament this summer in partnership with HNTB and Burns & McDonnell. Guided by our vision “United by One Goal,” our mission is to ensure the transportation experience for the World Cup is seamless, memorable, and distinctly Kansas City.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

As Vehicle Access Parking Permit System (VAPPs) Manager, you will play a pivotal role in the design, management, and delivery of the vehicle access and permitting program supporting the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

This role is responsible for developing and maintaining the VAPPs framework that governs vehicle access to venues, transport hubs, secure perimeters, and controlled zones. Working closely with FIFA, KC2026, Host City partners, security, and venue teams, you will ensure that all accredited vehicles are correctly permitted, communicated, and managed in line with evolving operational requirements.

This is a fast-paced and detail-driven leadership role, ideal for professionals experienced in access control systems, stakeholder coordination, and large-scale event transport operations. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

LEADERSHIP & PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

• Lead the development and delivery of the KC2026 Vehicle Access Parking Permit System (VAPPs) in collaboration with FIFA and KC2026 stakeholders.
• Establish VAPPs principles, coding structures, and allocation methodologies aligned with event access protocols.
• Provide subject matter expertise on vehicle access planning across the wider Transport Mobility Program.
• Maintain governance and version control of all VAPP-related policies, plans, and documentation.

OPERATIONAL READINESS

• Develop and maintain VAPP coding, access rules, and operational plans as tournament requirements evolve.
• Assist with the design and development of VAPP permits and Access Boards in accordance with KC2026 specifications.
• Develop access control procedures for venues, secure perimeters, and controlled areas.
• Support readiness testing, simulations, and validation exercises to ensure VAPPs functionality during live operations.

WORKFORCE & STAKEHOLDER COORDINATION

• Liaise with KC2026 workstream leads, clients, and functional teams regarding VAPP allocation, distribution, and usage.
• Coordinate with security, venue operations, traffic management, and access control teams to align procedures.
• Provide clear guidance and communications to stakeholders on VAPP rules, changes, and implementation timelines.
• Support training and briefings related to VAPP usage and compliance.

SAFETY, COMPLIANCE & QUALITY

• Ensure VAPPs processes comply with FIFA access standards, KC2026 protocols, and local regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of VAPP allocations, changes, and approvals.
• Monitor operational risks related to vehicle access and implement mitigation strategies.
• Produce operational reports, readiness updates, and post-event documentation.

PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

• Represent TMS with the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in all meetings and communications.
• Ensure timely responses to communications and maintain organized documentation within company systems.
• Be flexible with working hours — this role will require extended hours, weekends, and event-period commitments.

SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE:

• Strong knowledge of Vehicle Access Parking Permit Systems (VAPPs) and their practical application in major events.
• Proven experience designing and managing access control or permit-based transport programs.
• High attention to detail with strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships across multiple agencies and workstreams.
• Experience managing VAPP rate-card style programs and allocation frameworks.
• Strong understanding of venue access control, secure perimeters, and traffic management interfaces.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in high-pressure environments without compromising quality.
• Advanced reporting, documentation, and operational record-keeping capabilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and document control systems.
• Familiarity with graphics or layout software for permit and access board design is an advantage.

QUALIFICATION & EXPERIENCE:

• 4+ years of progressive experience in transport operations, access control, event planning, or VAPPs management.
• Previous experience working on major events, preferably within a transport, venue, or access permitting capacity.
• Demonstrated understanding of VAPPs principles, coding systems, and access governance.
• Experience supporting or leading vehicle access programs for secure or high-profile events.
• Strong written communication skills, including operational plans, guidance documents, and event reporting.
• Experience working in fast-moving, evolving operational environments.
• Advanced working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365. Experience with graphics software is desirable.
• Proficient in English (written and oral).
• Legal right to work in the United States.

The employee’s responsibilities reflect the current needs and requirements of the Company as at the date of issuing this position description. However, the services that the employee is required to provide may change over time as circumstances dictate.

TMS is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
 We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Be part of the team delivering world-class mobility for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.