Job Description

OPERATIONS MANAGER
Location: Cape Town
Reports To: Practice Principal
Position Type: Full-Time
The 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.

People & Resourcing

• Partner with department leads across architecture, interiors, FF&E, procurement, and decor to support operational efficiency.
• Oversee scheduling, workload planning, and capacity management.
• Assist in recruitment, onboarding, and performance management processes.

Project Execution

• 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.

Finance & Compliance

• 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.

Client & Partner Relationships

• 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.

Your Experience & Skills

• 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.

What You'll Get

• 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.

Send CVs to: redlinerecruitmentcvs@gmail.com

Skills Required