Head of Operations - Entertainment/Leisure #1508

Our client, a rapidly expanding family leisure & recreation chain company, is seeking a Head of Operations to lead their German market expansion. This key leadership position will drive growth and increase locations over the next decade while ensuring operational excellence across all units.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead operational management across all locations, ensuring exceptional quality and customer experience
• Drive market expansion through new location identification and launch execution
• Build and develop high-performing teams across multiple sites
• Implement and monitor standardized processes for efficiency and safety
• Oversee budget adherence and unit profitability
• Develop and execute market strategy and brand building initiatives
• Analyze business performance through KPIs and implement improvements

Personal Attributes

• Results-driven with focus on operational excellence
• Strategic thinker who can balance long-term vision with immediate execution
• Strong communicator capable of building trust with teams and stakeholders
• Adaptable and solution-oriented in fast-paced environments
• Cultural awareness with ability to implement global standards locally

Requirements

• 5-7 years of operational management experience in retail, theme-parks, fast-food, entertainment, recreation, or leisure industries, or similar sectors
• Proven experience in multi-unit business operations, preferably in recreation, fast-food, or standardized process environments
• Track record of successful business expansion and new location launches
• Demonstrated leadership ability in building and developing teams
• Fluent in German and English (written and spoken)
• Strong financial management and P&L skills

Qualifications

• Academic Degree in business administration, economics, leadership, or related field
• Knowledge of German property development and local market dynamics (for identifying growth prospects)
• Experience in brand building and market expansion
• Swedish language skills (advantageous)

Benefits

• Competitive salary range: €84,000-110,000
• Performance-based bonus potential
• Company car
• Additional benefits package and PTO
• Location: to be based ideally in Düsseldorf/Cologne or Frankfurt area
• Travel: Regular travel to all locations across Germany required
• Schedule: Flexible hours including weekends and holidays