Operations Manager Needed for Interior Design Firm – Based in Cape Town
- Cape Town, Western Cape
- Permanent
- Full-time
Location: Cape Town
Reports To: Practice Principal
Position Type: Full-TimeThe Role
We’re looking for an experienced Operations Manager to take ownership of the studio's day-to-day functions and help drive performance across departments. In this role, you'll be a key partner to the Practice Principal - keeping projects on track, teams resourced, finances in check, and operations smooth.
This is a critical leadership position for someone who balances big-picture thinking with precision execution.Key Responsibilities:
Studio Operations
- Lead the development and enforcement of workflows, operational systems, and internal processes.
- Ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs) are understood and applied across departments.
- Monitor studio performance, timelines, and deliverables using key metrics.
- Partner with department leads across architecture, interiors, FF&E, procurement, and décor to support operational efficiency.
- Oversee scheduling, workload planning, and capacity management.
- Assist in recruitment, onboarding, and performance management processes.
- Maintain oversight of project timelines, budget adherence, and quality benchmarks.
- Coordinate weekly client reports and ensure documentation is accurate and timely.
- Support FF&E and procurement teams with supplier relationships, logistics, and inventory oversight.
- Collaborate with the finance team on budgets, invoicing, and financial reporting.
- Monitor cash flow and cost controls.
- Ensure compliance with contracts, legal requirements, and internal standards.
- Contribute to a strong client service ethos by supporting clear communication and project visibility.
- Maintain solid partnerships with suppliers and service providers, ensuring terms and expectations are met.
- A background in operations management or a senior operations role, ideally within a design, architecture, or construction context.
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage people, processes, and timelines with clarity and confidence.
- Strong analytical skills and financial fluency in budgeting, cost control, and reporting.
- Exceptional organisational ability and calm problem-solving under pressure.
- Fluency in Microsoft Office; project management software experience (especially within design) is an advantage.
- Comfortable working across multiple projects in a high-paced, design-intensive environment.
- A key leadership role in a design studio with a bold, collaborative culture.
- A seat at the table in shaping the future of a growing practice.
- Exposure to exceptional residential and hospitality projects at the highest level.
- A competitive compensation package, reflective of experience and seniority.
- Long-term growth and development opportunities within the studio.