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.

How to Apply

Email your resume and cover letter to hiring@ono.co with the subject line 'Studio Operations Manager'
Only applicants who apply via email will be considered.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Staffing & Team Coordination

Develop and execute hiring plans aligned with studio growth and project pipeline
Manage candidate pipelines, onboarding, and team transitions
Coordinate with principals on staffing needs and skill gaps
Track team capacity and allocation across projects
Manage performance review cycles and HR documentation
Address personnel issues proactively
Directly manage and support the Studio Assistant

Office Operations & Facilities

Manage day-to-day office logistics: supplies, equipment, vendors, maintenance
Coordinate with facilities vendors (IT, security, acoustic treatment, utilities)
Oversee office setup, layout, and workspace optimization
Manage office technology stack and troubleshoot tech issues
Track and optimize office budget and vendor contracts
Ensure compliance with insurance, safety, and regulatory requirements

Marketing & Communications

With Principals, set direction for ONO's communications presence (Instagram, website, press, awards)
Coordinate with PR consultant on strategy and outreach
Oversee award submissions and project profile development
Approve content and ensure brand consistency across channels
Maintain the project archive and ensure marketing materials reflect current work
Direct the Studio Assistant on execution of marketing tasks

Proactive Problem Solving

Anticipate operational bottlenecks and propose solutions before escalation
Identify process inefficiencies and recommend systems improvements
Stay ahead of licensing, insurance, and compliance deadlines
Flag risks early (labor law changes, cost overruns, staffing gaps)

Administrative & Financial

Oversee accounts payable and expense processing in collaboration with our bookkeeper
Manage office expenses, budgets, and monthly reconciliation
Coordinate with bookkeeper on payroll, tax, and regulatory filings
Maintain records for workers comp, liability insurance, and labor compliance

Cross-Functional Leadership

Serve as primary point of contact for office-wide coordination
Manage calendars, travel, event logistics, and internal meetings for leadership
Coordinate with project managers on resource planning and scheduling
Interface with outside consultants, auditors, and service providers

REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

5+ years in operations, office management, or administrative leadership
Proven ability to manage multiple vendors and complex logistics
Experience with staffing coordination and HR processes
Experience or strong interest in marketing and communications
Strong interest in AI models and workflow automation (Claude, AI agents, Cowork, etc.)
Proficiency with Excel, Google Workspace, and project management tools
Excellent written and verbal communication
High tolerance for ambiguity; can prioritize independently
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information
Track record of building systems and improving processes

QUALITIES

Proactive: identifies problems and proposes solutions without being asked
Detail oriented: manages multiple projects without dropping threads
Self directed: works independently with minimal supervision
Calm under pressure: stays organized during growth and change
Empathetic: understands studio culture and supports team wellbeing

SCOPE & AUTHORITY

Hiring authority in coordination with principals
Direct authority over vendors and service providers
Authority to implement operational improvements and process changes
Direct management of Studio Assistant

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Location: 19 Butte Place, San Francisco (full time on site)
Hours: Standard business hours with flexibility as needed
Occasional after hours availability for emergencies or events
Travel: Minimal, occasional visits to project sites or partner locations

Fresh Jobs. Delivered to Your Inbox.

OBATA NOBLIN OFFICE jobs

Studio Operations Manager