Studio Operations Manager

Obata Noblin Office EmployerSan Francisco, CA, USLocation:Full-timeTypeSat, Jul 4 '26Posted on:The Studio Operations Manager is the operational backbone of ONO. This proactive leadership role combines strategic staffing planning with hands-on problem solving across office management, staffing, facilities, marketing, and operations. We are looking for someone who wants to stay long term, deeply understands ONO's principles and goals, and takes ownership of the studio's wellbeing and culture. They should anticipate problems, generate their own initiatives to improve operations and engagement, and help the principals navigate blind spots.Key ResponsibilitiesStaffing & Team CoordinationDevelop and execute hiring plans aligned with studio growth and project pipelineManage candidate pipelines, onboarding, and team transitionsCoordinate with principals on staffing needs and skill gapsTrack team capacity and allocation across projectsManage performance review cycles and HR documentationAddress personnel issues proactivelyDirectly manage and support the Studio AssistantOffice Operations & FacilitiesManage day-to-day office logistics: supplies, equipment, vendors, maintenanceCoordinate with facilities vendors (IT, security, acoustic treatment, utilities)Oversee office setup, layout, and workspace optimizationManage office technology stack and troubleshoot tech issuesTrack and optimize office budget and vendor contractsEnsure compliance with insurance, safety, and regulatory requirementsMarketing & CommunicationsWith Principals, set direction for ONO's communications presence (Instagram, website, press, awards)Coordinate with PR consultant on strategy and outreachOversee award submissions and project profile developmentApprove content and ensure brand consistency across channelsMaintain the project archive and ensure marketing materials reflect current workDirect the Studio Assistant on execution of marketing tasksProactive Problem SolvingAnticipate operational bottlenecks and propose solutions before escalationIdentify process inefficiencies and recommend systems improvementsStay ahead of licensing, insurance, and compliance deadlinesFlag risks early (labor law changes, cost overruns, staffing gaps)Administrative & FinancialOversee accounts payable and expense processing in collaboration with our bookkeeperManage office expenses, budgets, and monthly reconciliationCoordinate with bookkeeper on payroll, tax, and regulatory filingsMaintain records for workers comp, liability insurance, and labor complianceCross-Functional LeadershipServe as primary point of contact for office-wide coordinationManage calendars, travel, event logistics, and internal meetings for leadershipCoordinate with project managers on resource planning and schedulingInterface with outside consultants, auditors, and service providersRequired Skills & Experience5+ years in operations, office management, or administrative leadershipProven ability to manage multiple vendors and complex logisticsExperience with staffing coordination and HR processesExperience or strong interest in marketing and communicationsStrong interest in AI models and workflow automation (Claude, AI agents, Cowork, etc.)Proficiency with Excel, Google Workspace, and project management toolsExcellent written and verbal communicationHigh tolerance for ambiguity; can prioritize independentlyAbility to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive informationTrack record of building systems and improving processesQUALITIESProactive: identifies problems and proposes solutions without being askedDetail oriented: manages multiple projects without dropping threadsSelf directed: works independently with minimal supervisionCalm under pressure: stays organized during growth and changeEmpathetic: understands studio culture and supports team wellbeingWORK ENVIRONMENTLocation: 19 Butte Place, San Francisco (full time on site)Hours: Standard business hours with flexibility as neededTravel: Minimal, occasional visits to project sites or partner locationsEmail your resume and cover letter to hiring@ono.co with the subject line ONO Studio Operations Manager