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Salary: USD 80,000 - 85,000 / annual
Studs is a category-defining ear piercing and earring brand, named one of Fast Company's "10 most innovative companies in retail for 2023." The company connects ear piercing with aftercare and earring shopping to create an end-to-end Earscaping® experience, offering a retail and digital experience that prioritizes safety and expertise in a cool, welcoming environment.
As Studio Manager, you will oversee all aspects of the Irvine studio location, leading a high-performing team and ensuring a best-in-class experience for every customer. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone passionate about delivering results through people—setting clear expectations, coaching performance, and cultivating an environment where customers and team members thrive.
Key responsibilities include:
**Operational Excellence & Revenue:** Own the studio's overall performance, driving revenue growth and achieving sales plans. Review and analyze business reporting to identify opportunities and adjust strategies. Delegate and oversee divisions of responsibility within the management team with consistent follow-up on execution. Own scheduling within labor allocations and ensure payroll accuracy through regular audits. Maintain high operational standards, ensuring compliance with piercing procedures, health and safety protocols, and inventory control practices. Partner with Piercing Leadership to uphold technical standards, training, and best practices for piercers.
**Customer Experience:** Welcome and educate customers on the unique Studs experience, delivering exceptional service every time. Lead by example in service recovery best practices and ensure feedback loops are built into daily operations. Monitor studio reviews and customer feedback, identifying and escalating trends to drive continuous improvement.
**Leadership & Team Development:** Build, develop, and lead a service-driven team including an Assistant Studio Manager, Studio Supervisors, Sales Associates, and Piercers. Coach and provide ongoing feedback to team members, driving professional growth and accountability. Create a strong sense of belonging, collaboration, and trust across the studio. Navigate employee relations thoughtfully in partnership with cross-functional teams. Lead change management initiatives and help the team adapt effectively to evolving priorities.
This role requires on-site presence five days per week (40 hours minimum) with open availability including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Weekend availability (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) is required, excluding approved PTO. Scheduled days off typically fall on Wednesdays and Thursdays but may vary based on business needs. You must be comfortable standing for extended periods (up to 8+ hours) and able to lift/move at least 20 lbs. You'll handle chemicals safely and follow all relevant health and safety protocols.
**Requirements:**
- 2+ years of management experience (e.g., Store Manager, General Manager, Studio Manager) in a customer-facing environment; experience with jewelry, piercing, or retail services a plus
- Proven success leading a team of 7+ employees, including specialized skill roles
- Must work on-site five days per week at minimum (40 hours) and maintain open availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays (no overnights)
- Weekend availability (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) required, excluding approved PTO
- Scheduled days off typically fall on Wednesdays and Thursdays but may vary based on business needs
- Full-time roles expected to prioritize Studs as primary employment commitment
- Comfortable standing for extended periods (up to 8+ hours) and able to lift/move at least 20 lbs
- Able to handle chemicals safely and follow all relevant health and safety protocols
- Strong operational and financial acumen with a track record of achieving business goals
- Positive attitude, ownership mindset, and creative problem-solving approach
- Highly organized, scrappy when needed, and able to navigate dynamic change using available tools and resources
