Director of Studio & Foundry Operations

Business & Operational Leadership

Job Summary

An established, internationally recognized fine-art sculpture studio and bronze foundry in Monterey, California, is seeking an accomplished Director of Studio & Foundry Operations to lead business operations, financial oversight, human resources, personnel management, and production coordination.

This is a senior leadership opportunity for a highly capable professional who combines strong business acumen with exceptional organizational, financial, and people-management skills.

Working directly with the artist and executive leadership, the Director will be responsible for strengthening operational efficiency, improving profitability, developing effective systems, and ensuring accountability across the organization.

Responsibilities:

Business & Operational Leadership

• Direct daily studio and foundry operations, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and accountability.
• Lead department personnel, operational planning, production schedules, and workflow.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and systems that improve business performance.
• Identify operational challenges and implement practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Collaborate with executive leadership and department heads on strategic initiatives.

Financial Management & Accounting Oversight

• Oversee accounting operations and personnel to ensure accurate financial reporting and accountability.
• Develop and manage operating budgets, expenses, and cash flow.
• Review financial statements, accounts payable and receivable, payroll reports, and production costs.
• Monitor cost of goods sold (COGS), profitability, and budget performance.
• Establish financial controls, purchasing procedures, and expense accountability.
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve margins, and strengthen financial performance.

Human Resources & Personnel Leadership

• Oversee employee management, including recruiting, onboarding, training, performance evaluations, and employee relations.
• Ensure compliance with applicable California employment laws and workplace regulations.
• Develop and maintain employee policies, procedures, and performance standards.
• Manage staffing requirements, employee schedules, productivity, and accountability.
• Foster a professional, collaborative, and high-performing work environment.

Production, Inventory & Logistics

• Oversee production planning, scheduling, inventory management, and quality control.
• Coordinate artwork production, gallery orders, commissions, and delivery timelines.
• Ensure accurate inventory tracking, reporting, and documentation.
• Manage domestic and international artwork shipping and logistics.
• Research, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors, suppliers, and contractors to optimize costs and efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of progressive leadership experience in business operations, manufacturing, production, or a related field.
• Strong accounting and financial management experience, including oversight of accounting functions, budgeting, financial reporting, and cost controls.
• Demonstrated human resources experience, including employee relations, recruitment, performance management, and workplace policies.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage personnel, and oversee multiple business functions.
• Strong understanding of financial accountability, profitability, and operational improvement.
• Experience negotiating vendor contracts and managing operating expenses.
• Excellent leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with accounting software, spreadsheets, and business management systems.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications

• MBA preferred, particularly in Business Administration, Finance, or Operations Management.
• Experience overseeing accounting and HR functions within a small to midsize business.
• Proficiency with QuickBooks or comparable accounting software.
• Background in manufacturing, fine-art production, fabrication, or luxury goods.
• Knowledge of California employment practices and workplace compliance.
• Demonstrated success improving operational efficiency and profitability.
• Knowledge of Salesforce and relatable CRM

The Ideal Candidate

We are seeking a proactive, resourceful, and financially disciplined leader who takes ownership, anticipates challenges, and brings structure and accountability to a dynamic creative organization.

The successful candidate will be equally comfortable reviewing financial statements, managing personnel, negotiating vendor agreements, and overseeing complex operational projects.

This individual must possess the confidence and professionalism to work directly with the artist while balancing creative excellence with sound business management.

Pay: $125,000.00 - $140,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person