Katie Bornstein

Director, Facility Operations and Events at MetLife Stadium

“Thank you, Katie Bornstein, Director of Facility Operations & Events at MetLife Stadium, for sharing your journey! Katie oversees logistics for major events like NFL games, concerts, and international soccer.

Her career path shows the power of internships and hands-on experience—discovering her passion for operations through college athletics and solidifying it while working the Army-Navy Game at MetLife.

She credits supportive leadership and teamwork for her growth, values balance by never missing life’s important moments, and encourages young women in sports to say yes to opportunities and gain experience wherever possible.”

– Zara

Please describe your role & responsibilities at that position?

I handle the logistics, planning and advancing for all stadium wide events (NFL, Soccer, Concerts, Monster Jam, Supercross, etc.)

What did you study in college and how did your educational background shape your career in the sports industry?

I actually went to school to be a teacher and after working in college athletics as a student, I realized I had a passion for being in the event/operations world on sports. I always tell young professionals that having experience/internships is so important because I progressed in my career only on the experience and internships I completed.

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to your current position in the sports industry?

I actually went to school to be a teacher and after working in college athletics as a student, I realized I had a passion for being in the event/operations world on sports. I always tell young professionals that having experience/internships is so important because I progressed in my career only on the experience and internships I completed.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in the sports business, & how have you overcome them?

I think the most important thing to be successful as a woman in sports is to have a supportive environment. I have a boss who is always pushing for my success and involvement in the events. He builds a foundation for me to grow and learn on my own and in return that allows me to gain respect within the industry.

Another thing to remember is to treat every day as a new day. There might be times the industry is difficult but know that tomorrow is a new day to start fresh.

​Balancing a career is demanding. How do you manage a work-life balance? What strategies have worked well for you?

Again, I think this goes back to having successful leadership/environment in your work. If you have a boss/leader that is not willing to recognize things that are important to you then you will never be happy in that role. No matter how busy our event schedule is, I have never missed a wedding or a special moment in my life. Our operations team is always willing to cover for each other when there are life events we do not want to miss.

I also make sure to take advantage of our “quiet” times in the industry.

How important is mentorship for women in the sports industry? Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career and can give some details?

I think it is essential to have someone who serve a mentor role. We always take on interns at the stadium and try to educate them/provide experience about what it takes to be in the industry.

I also try to serve on many committees and teach at local state Universities to allow myself to serve as a mentor to young professionals growing in the industry.

In a male-dominated industry, do you feel women are given equal opportunities? What steps do you think can be taken to promote gender equality in the sports industry?

I think more than ever, females have stepped up when it comes to the sports industry. We constantly see more opportunities being provided to females (celebrating women in sports day, women panels, conferences, etc.). I think this still goes back to have a work environment and leaders who support women.

What aspects of your work in the sports industry do you enjoy the most? What parts do you find the most challenging ?

I love being able to take a minute and see the events that we have created. We create an environment where people come together no matter what their differences are to support a common interest (sports team, singer, etc.).

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to build a successful career in the sports industry?

I would say to take on any internship possible to gain experience and connections in the industry (even if it is paid).

Also, say yes to everything even if it is not your “dream job.” You never know where your connections will lead you.

What is your long-term personal goal that you still want to achieve both business wise and personal?

I would like to run my own operations department long term. I would also love to teach full time to educate the sports industry to young professionals.

Any fun facts or interesting things you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, pet peeves, etc.?

My full name is actually Katie (not Katherine, Caitlin, Kathleen, etc.). People always think it’s interesting my name is actually a nickname!