Studio Operations & Development Manager is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations, strategic growth, marketing, human resources, event programming, and overall member experience of the studio. This position works closely with ownership to drive business growth, improve operational efficiency, oversee staff, and ensure the successful execution of all studio initiatives.
This position serves as the operational leader of the organization, overseeing business systems, team performance, community partnerships, marketing initiatives, workshops, rentals, payroll administration, and member engagement while creating processes that support long-term organizational success.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Business Development:
- Lead strategic planning initiatives that support organizational growth and long-term sustainability.
- Identify new business opportunities, partnerships, revenue streams, and membership growth strategies.
- Analyze business performance and provide recommendations to improve operations, profitability, and member retention.
- Support ownership with strategic planning, project management, and operational decision-making.
- Research industry trends and identify opportunities for innovation.
Operations Management:
- Oversee the daily operations of the studio and ensure all business functions run efficiently.
- Develop, implement, and improve operational systems, policies, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Manage front desk operations, studio organization, inventory, vendor relationships, and facility standards.
- Ensure teachers and staff consistently follow operational expectations and company policies.
- Lead operational improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency and the overall member experience.
Team Leadership & Human Resources:
- Recruit, interview, onboard, and develop team members.
- Manage employee records, certifications, onboarding, and HR documentation.
- Coach, mentor, and support staff through regular performance feedback and accountability.
- Conduct employee meetings, performance discussions, and disciplinary conversations when necessary.
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and accountable workplace culture.
Payroll & Financial Administration:
- Oversee payroll processing through ADP and audit employee hours, instructor pay, and charge forms.
- Calculate facilitator payouts, commissions, and revenue-sharing agreements.
- Monitor labor costs, membership revenue, and payroll accuracy.
- Prepare operational and financial reports to support business decisions.
Marketing & Brand Management:
- Develop and execute marketing strategies that increase brand awareness, memberships, and community engagement.
- Oversee social media strategy, digital marketing initiatives, promotional campaigns, and email marketing efforts.
- Manage website updates, branded merchandise, vendor relationships, and community partnerships.
- Monitor marketing performance and identify opportunities to improve visibility and business growth.
- Support content development and ensure consistent brand messaging across all marketing platforms.
Workshop & Event Management:
- Oversee the planning, scheduling, promotion, execution, and financial performance of all workshops and community events.
- Coordinate facilitators, manage event logistics, monitor registrations, and ensure successful event execution.
- Evaluate workshop performance and recommend improvements to maximize attendance, revenue, and community engagement.
Rental Program Management:
- Manage the complete rental process from inquiry through event completion.
- Coordinate rental agreements, scheduling, insurance verification, payments, walkthroughs, and studio support.
- Build long-term relationships with renters while ensuring compliance with studio policies and operational standards.
- Manage sites and ways to promote rentals online and other outlets
Membership & Client Experience:
- Develop strategies to increase memberships, improve retention, and enhance the overall client experience.
- Build member onboarding systems and communication campaigns.
- Respond to member concerns and identify opportunities to improve satisfaction and engagement.
- Develop promotional campaigns and referral initiatives that support business growth.
Teacher Management:
- Oversee instructor scheduling, substitute coordination, performance management, and ongoing communication.
- Monitor class performance and attendance trends.
- Support instructor development while maintaining accountability and operational consistency.
Reporting & Business Analytics:
- Prepare weekly and monthly reports analyzing attendance, memberships, revenue, class utilization, and operational performance.
- Track key performance indicators and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Provide data-driven recommendations to leadership that support strategic decision-making.
Systems & Technology:
- Serve as the primary administrator for Mindbody, ADP, Eventbrite, Google Workspace, and other operational systems.
- Maintain organized digital documentation and ensure technology systems support efficient business operations.
- Train staff on studio systems and continuously improve workflows.
Community Engagement:
- Represent the studio within the local community through partnerships, networking, community events, and outreach initiatives.
- Develop relationships with local businesses and organizations that strengthen the studio's presence and support business growth.
Qualifications:
- 5+ years of leadership, operations, business development, or management experience.
- Strong experience in project management, team leadership, marketing, customer service, and operational management.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Experience with Mindbody, ADP, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Canva, Eventbrite, and CRM/email marketing platforms is preferred.
- Previous experience in the health and wellness space preferred.
Position Objective:
This position is responsible for ensuring the organization operates efficiently while creating sustainable growth through strong leadership, operational excellence, strategic planning, exceptional member experiences, and a thriving team culture. The Business Development Manager serves as the central operational leader, ensuring all staff work together to support the mission and long-term success of the organization.