Overview:
The Founding General Manager (GM) will play a pivotal role in launching and leading our new location, Upper West Side. You’re not just opening doors; you’re setting the tone, building the team, and crafting a new community. This role demands a proactive, hands-on leader who can thrive through change and momentum. You’ll own everything from pre-opening activations to post-launch performance, with the opportunity to shape what this location becomes.
Responsibilities:
Pre-Opening Phase:
- Partner with NSO and Sales to lead presale activations, local outreach, and Run Club or outdoor event execution
- Hire, onboard, and train Coaches and Community Managers with support from T&D and Operations
- Drive local lead engagement and support early conversions in partnership with Sales
- Ensure operational readiness across staffing, scheduling, software systems, inventory, uniforms, and facility set-up
- Embody and represent the brand in the local community, from events to early touch points with members
Post-Opening Phase:
- Own and optimize all studio operations, from financials and labor management to cleanliness and member experience
- Lead, develop, and manage the studio team — creating a culture of accountability, excellence, and fun
- Deliver an average of 15 classes per week
- Maintain a consistent and visible in-studio presence to support team culture, member engagement, and operational excellence. Participation in team workouts.
- Track KPIs weekly and make tactical decisions to support retention, referrals, and revenue
- Foster a thriving member community by ensuring high engagement, consistent programming delivery, and an elevated in-studio experience
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
Pre-Opening:
- Pre-Sale Lead Engagement Rate
- Community Event Execution Score
- Hiring Completion Rate for Coaches & CMs
- Launch Readiness Score
- Staff Onboarding Completion
- GM Conversion Contribution (tracked separately from Sales)
- Soft Opening Execution Score
Post-Opening:
- Studio Revenue
- Labor % to Revenue (Coaches)
- Squad Utilization Rate
- Midday Revenue vs. Target
- Referral Conversion Count
- Member Count
- New Member Onboarding Completion Rate
- Studio Audit Score
- Staff Retention (Coach & CM)
Who You Are:
- A natural leader with experience in studio management, team building, and community development
- Passionate about our brand and confident leading teams in high-growth, high-energy environments
- Organized, tactical, and great under pressure
- Skilled at reading the room, managing people, and juggling multiple priorities
Requirements
- 2+ years of leadership or studio operations experience in a fitness, hospitality, or high-growth service environment
- CPR, First Aid & AED certified (or willing to obtain)
- Willingness to work non-traditional hours including mornings, evenings, and weekends
- Ability to lift and carry at least 30 lbs; capable of standing for long periods and moving freely within the space
- NASM CPT (or equivalent)
Benefits
- 4 weeks of PTO/year with immediate accrual
- 40 hours paid sick time
- 401k
- Health insurance
