Independent Director of Operations

Huna Totem Corporation; Juneau (AK); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent tourism company in Juneau, Alaska seeks a Director for Independent Operations to provide strategic leadership for diverse business operations. This integral role emphasizes operational excellence, team development, and financial accountability while ensuring high-quality visitor experiences that align with the company’s cultural values. The ideal candidate will manage various independent businesses, oversee compliance, and drive sales growth through effective strategies.

Qualifications

• Minimum five years of experience in tourism, operations, or hospitality management required.
• Minimum two years owning/managing a P&L required.
• Experience with accounting processes, budget management, and financial reporting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of various independent tourism businesses.
• Develop and implement operational procedures for safety, efficiency, and quality.
• Drive sales growth through marketing, pricing, and revenue strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Tourism Management, Accounting, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Booking and point of sale platforms

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Director for Independent Operations in Hoonah provides strategic and operational leadership for the independent business operations in Hoonah This Hoonah-based role ensures operational excellence, alignment with company values, and financial accountability across all activities. The Director oversees logistics, staffing, maintenance, and quality control for all tour and excursion programs, while supporting the President of Tourism and the finance team with accounting functions such as budgeting, forecasting, and expense tracking.

This position plays a key leadership role in advancing the Huna Totem Corporation mission by ensuring that the independent operations delivers safe, high-quality, and culturally grounded visitor experiences that reflect our values of being Culture-Driven, Community-Centric, and Business-Focused.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational Leadership

• Oversee day-to-day operations of independent operations including Hoonah Travel Adventures, Icy Strait Whale Adventures, Icy Strait Brewery and City Shuttle Operations as well as any future independent businesses and tours.
• Develop and implement operational procedures that enhance safety, efficiency, and service quality.
• Ensure all tours meet company standards, regulatory requirements, and guest satisfaction goals. This includes CDL Compliance for Busses and Drivers as well as Marine Compliance for Vessels, Captains and Deckhands. Food and Beverage compliance with DEC as well as compliance with all state and local laws regarding F&B and alcohol.
• Coordinate staffing levels and schedules in alignment with seasonal business needs.
• Drive sales growth through development and implementation of marketing, pricing, and ancillary revenue strategies.

Financial & Administrative Oversight

• Support accounting functions, tracking revenues and expenses, and providing the corporate accounting department providing daily, weekly and monthly reports.
• Assist in preparing budgets, forecasts, and variance analyses.
• Monitor operational costs and identify opportunities for savings or efficiencies.
• Ensure compliance with financial controls and timely submission of required documentation.

Leadership & Team Development

• Recruit, train, and mentor operations team members; foster a culture of safety, accountability, and teamwork.
• Provide ongoing performance feedback and professional development opportunities.
• Lead by example in demonstrating professionalism, cultural respect, and strong work ethic.

Strategic & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with the Marketing, Guest Services, and Maintenance teams to optimize tour performance and guest satisfaction.
• Participate in strategic planning and long-term growth initiatives for the independent companies.
• Represent Independent Companies in community partnerships, cultural engagement efforts, and local collaborations supporting Huna Totem’s mission.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work is performed in both office and outdoor operational environments.
• Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Occasional travel between Juneau and Hoonah is required.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends or evenings during peak tourism season.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Tourism Management, Accounting, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in tourism, operations, or hospitality management required.
• Minimum two (2) years owning/managing a P&L required.
• Experience with accounting processes, budget management, and financial reporting preferred.
• Knowledge of Alaska Native culture, tourism, and community relations a plus.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Working knowledge of software including booking and point of sale platforms as well as proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams through seasonal and operational fluctuations.
• Commitment to Huna Totem’s Guiding Principles and cultural values.

Additional Information

This job description is not exhaustive and may include other duties necessary to support the goals and objectives of Huna Totem Corporation and its subsidiaries.

Huna Totem Corporation is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, with Native Preference under P.L. 93-638.