Motorsport Team Manager (Midwest) - Smedley Group

Global Karting League has taken the UK by storm with our exciting electric karting series, and we are now setting our sights on global expansion. Our ambitious goal is to establish 50 international championships within the next five years, and to achieve this, we are seeking a talented and driven individual to open and manage our first US location. If you are passionate about motorsport and eager to make a significant impact in this fast-evolving industry, this role could be perfect for you.

Position Overview:

As the Motorsport Team Manager, you will operate at the dynamic intersection of motorsport events, technology, and logistics. This is an opportunity to lead a disruptive karting series that is levelling the playing field by reducing the costs and complexities traditionally associated with the sport. By doing so, we aim to bring a new generation of aspiring racers into the world of motorsport.

Key Responsibilities:

• Recruit, hire, and manage a team of full-time and part-time staff to support business objectives.
• Assist the HQ team with the initial business setup, including securing workshop facilities, vehicles, trailers, IT equipment, and other essentials.
• Collaborate closely with the HQ sales and marketing teams to meet occupancy and customer experience targets throughout the season.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the US hub, ensuring seamless communication and reporting to HQ.
• Manage all aspects of event execution, including but not limited to:
  • Coordinating with karting tracks for booking, access, and cost management.
  • Overseeing logistical planning such as hotels, travel arrangements, and vehicles.
  • Ensuring adherence to budgetary constraints.
  • Delivering exceptional customer experiences at events, while leading your team in resolving any customer requests or issues with professionalism and efficiency.

What We’re Looking For:

• Leadership Experience: Proven track record of leading high-performance teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Process-Oriented: Skilled in implementing and training others on efficient, effective processes.
• Problem-Solving Ability: Calm and logical approach to resolving issues, with a proactive attitude toward identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Passion for Motorsport: A deep interest in motorsport, with an enthusiasm for the electric karting space.

Your Skills and Experience:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage with both customers and internal teams.
• Willingness to work up to 27 weekends per year, with corresponding time off during the week.
• Experience within the karting or motorsport industry, ideally in an event organization capacity—whether for a venue, championship, or series (preferred but not essential).
• Ambitions to grow within a company poised for significant expansion across the US and internationally.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 business applications, including Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• A valid driver’s license and willingness to travel extensively across the US and potentially abroad.
• Fluency in written and spoken English.
• Legal right to work in the US - based in Indianapolis or happy to relocate.

About the Company:

We believe the world’s fastest driver hasn’t raced…yet.

F1 is the world’s fastest-growing sport, but ordinary people remain spectators due to the huge costs of participation. GKL’s mission is to achieve mass participation in motorsport by radically reducing the barriers to entry.

What’s in it for You?

• A key role in a fast-growing global company.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work alongside a small, talented team of individuals passionate about revolutionizing grassroots motorsport.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Smedley Group is committed to attracting, recruiting, and retaining top talent, regardless of age, disability, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where every team member is respected, empowered, and valued.