Chess Projects and Operations Associate

2 weeks ago


Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey Oplu (formerly Chace People) Full time

Chess Projects and Operations Associate

  • Supporting a Global Chess Initiative within a UHNW Environment**
  • FIDE ELO 1500+ required
  • Hybrid or Remote with International Travel

Overview

A rare opportunity to join a global chess initiative backed by a highly successful entrepreneur with several unicorn and decacorn ventures. The Principal is investing in the future of chess and developing projects that combine competitive play, digital innovation, community engagement and emerging technologies.

You will support the Principal and a prominent chess figure across research, content development, analysis and operational coordination. You will also manage logistics for tournaments, sponsored players and chess-related partnerships. The role suits someone who loves chess, is analytically strong and enjoys blending intellectual work with structured execution in a fast-paced UHNW environment.

The role is evenly divided between chess projects and innovation, content and research support for a leading chess expert, and operations and logistics.

It can be based remotely, ideally within European time zones, with regular travel to Turkey and international tournaments.

Core Responsibilities

The role is structured across three core areas: chess projects and innovation, content and research support, and operations and logistics.

Chess Projects and Innovation

  • Contribute to early-stage chess ventures and research led by the Principal.
  • Analyse games, openings and positions to inform internal projects.
  • Evaluate chess technology platforms and emerging business models in the sector.
  • Prepare clear briefs on developments across engines, AI tools, gamification and tournaments.
  • Support engagement with clubs, federations, coaches and international chess organisations.
  • Liaise regularly with Grandmasters, International Masters and other elite players as part of project coordination.

Operations, Logistics and Administration

  • Plan and manage travel for tournaments, training and global engagements.
  • Oversee stipends, bursaries and sponsorship payments across several countries.
  • Maintain calendars, communication channels and structured documentation.
  • Act as a point of contact for clubs, organisers and event partners.
  • Provide wider team support and ad hoc assistance when required.

Support to a Leading Chess Figure and Content Development

  • Work closely with a prominent chess figure on content, training material, research and digital assets.Assist with video workflows, basic editing and publishing schedules.
  • Support simulations and data-driven tasks using chess engines and digital tools. You do not need to be a software engineer, although comfort with data and technical tools is important.
  • Maintain digital archives and reference libraries used for ongoing projects.
  • Coordinate community engagement and online activity.
  • Communicate with Grandmasters and high-ranking players to organise collaborations, content and event involvement.

Requirements

  • A genuine passion for chess with a minimum FIDE ELO of 1500.
  • Strong analytical ability and understanding of chess structures.
  • Interest or competence in coding, simulations or digital tools used in chess.
  • Experience in operations, coordination or administration.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • High discretion and confidence in UHNW environments.
  • Readiness for international travel at short notice.
  • Digital fluency and comfort with content workflows.
  • Calm decision-making, quiet resilience and a solutions-focused approach.

Ideal Profile

  • A chess enthusiast who prefers intellectual challenge and contribution to a classic playing career.
  • Someone structured, curious and comfortable switching between analysis and execution.
  • A candidate who values international exposure and close access to influential figures in chess.
  • Someone who wants to help shape a new global chess programme, with room to grow into a senior projects or operations role as the initiative expands.

Why This Role Stands Out

This position offers direct involvement in a developing chess ecosystem with genuine long-term ambition and significant resources. You will engage daily with Grandmasters and leading players, attend world-class events and contribute to meaningful projects aimed at advancing the global chess community.

For the right person, this is a distinctive career path that combines chess expertise, operational responsibility and digital capability, with the potential for increased ownership as the programme grows.

Application Information

Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

If you do not hear from us within 14 days, please consider the application unsuccessful.



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