Office & Operations Manager - Designbar

Role Type: Part-Time (starting as Part-Time or Contract-to-Hire with option to go full time) Location: Charlotte, NC Reports To: Principal & Chief Creative OfficerAbout DESIGNBARDESIGNBAR is a hospitality-forward commercial interior design studio known for strategic creativity, strong client relationships, and a modern, tech-enabled approach to operations. We believe great design firms are built on equally great systems — and we're actively shaping the future of how design businesses operate.The RoleWe're seeking a highly capable Office & Operations Manager who thrives at the intersection of systems, people, and execution. This role is the backbone of the firm; ensuring that financial operations, internal processes, and day-to-day logistics run smoothly, intelligently, and with foresight.This is not a traditional admin role. We're looking for someone who:thinks proactivelyembraces automation and AI toolshelps modernize how a design studio operatesKey ResponsibilitiesOperations & Business InfrastructureOwn day-to-day business operations, including billing, expenses, vendor payments, and internal workflowsManage AR/AP processes and coordinate closely with accounting and payroll partnersMaintain operational calendars, deadlines, and compliance itemsOversee onboarding/offboarding processes and internal documentationSupport leadership with operational insights and process improvementsFinancial & Administrative OversightCoordinate payroll inputs, timesheets, reimbursements, and reportingMaintain clear records for financial tracking and auditsLiaise with CPA/bookkeeping partners regarding categorization, sales tax, and reportingMonitor cash-flow-related admin tasks and flag and act on risks earlySystems, Tools & AI EnablementMaintain and optimize internal tools (project management, payroll, document systems)Introduce and manage AI-assisted workflows for admin, reporting, scheduling, and documentationIdentify inefficiencies and propose smarter, automated solutionsEnsure team adoption of systems through training and clear SOPsOffice & Team SupportManage office logistics, vendors, supplies, and hybrid work coordinationSupport internal communications and team rhythmsOrganize team meetings, retreats, and special initiativesServe as a calm, organized point of contact internally and externallyMarketing & Business Support (Light)Support website updates, LinkedIn activity, and internal marketing coordinationRepresent the firm at select industry events when appropriateWho You AreHighly organized, systems-minded, and calm under pressureComfortable handling financial and operational information with discretionForward-thinking and curious about how AI and automation can improve workflowsA strong communicator who brings clarity, not noiseExperienced in operations, office management, or business administration (design, architecture, or professional services a plus)Qualifications3–5+ years in operations, office management, or business administrationStrong working knowledge of financial processes (billing, payroll coordination, expense tracking)Proficiency with modern tools (MS Office 365, project management platforms, accounting/payroll interfaces)Comfort learning and implementing AI-enabled toolsBachelor's degree preferred, not requiredWhy This Role Mattershow smoothly the firm operateshow supported the team feelshow scalable DESIGNBAR becomesYou won't just "keep things running"; you'll help build the next chapter of the firm.J-18808-Ljbffr