Head of Operations & Guest Experience - Pre-Open Venue

Saunter; New York (NY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Base salary $120,000–$150,000

Performance bonus and incentives

Founding operating role

National expansion opportunity

Job summary

Saunter seeks a hands-on operator to lead their first venue from pre-opening to established daily operation. You will own the four-wall P&L, build and guide a high-performing team, and ensure exceptional guest experiences across varied dayparts.

This role requires late-night readiness, strong operating discipline, and a clear playbook for future locations. You will report to the operating partner and collaborate with the CEO and founding team to shape the brand, standards, and long-term national

Qualifications

• Experience running high-touch, complex operations with guest experience
• Strong P&L management and cost controls
• Staff recruitment, development, and retention capabilities
• Ability to build systems and playbooks for multi‑revenue venues

Responsibilities

• Open the venue and lead pre-opening readiness, training, and transition to live operation
• Build and develop the team across all areas (floor, bar, reception, facilities, security)
• Own guest experience standards and daily operational discipline
• Control four-wall P&L, revenue, labor, COGS, and profitability with data-driven decisions
• Align marketing and programming to maximize utilization and spend across dayparts
• Design and implement operating systems, SOPs, and leadership rhythms for scalability
• Steward the brand and neighborhood relationships to build trust and community

Job description

Saunter seeks a hands-on operator to lead their first venue from pre-opening to established daily operation. You will own the four-wall P&L, build and guide a high-performing team, and ensure exceptional guest experiences across varied dayparts.

This role requires late-night readiness, strong operating discipline, and a clear playbook for future locations. You will report to the operating partner and collaborate with the CEO and founding team to shape the brand, standards, and long-term national