Operations Manager - Horseback

Location: On-Site - Kaneohe, HI.
Relocation Package: None
Schedule: Full-time position requiring flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and occasional on-call responsibilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Staff Management

Directly supervise and mentor the Horseback Operations team, including hiring, training, scheduling, performance evaluations, and professional development.
Lead training programs to ensure consistent adherence to safety standards, guest service excellence, and effective operational procedures.
Foster a positive, collaborative, and safe working environment.

Operational Excellence

Oversee daily horseback tour operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and compliance with ranch standards.
Develop and implement operational strategies and SOPs to enhance productivity, safety, and guest satisfaction.
Regularly analyze operational metrics, guest feedback, and incident reports to proactively address and resolve challenges.

Guest Experience & Safety

Ensure consistent delivery of exceptional guest experiences through thorough staff training, ongoing assessments, and adherence to safety protocols.
Act as the primary decision-maker during emergency situations, including weather-related adjustments and incident management.
Monitor and enhance guest safety standards, providing immediate resolutions to guest concerns and incidents.

Herd & Facility Management

Oversee comprehensive herd management, including veterinary care coordination, nutrition, grooming, and health assessments.
Ensure proper care, storage, and maintenance of tack, equipment, and barn facilities.
Coordinate facility upkeep and trail maintenance to guarantee safety and optimal operational conditions.

Administrative & Financial Oversight

Manage department budgets, including payroll, procurement of supplies, tack, feed, and other essential items.
Collaborate with senior management to align departmental goals and initiatives with overall organizational objectives.
Maintain accurate and timely reporting, including incident documentation, staffing reports, and financial records.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

3+ years of supervisory or management experience, preferably within equestrian, outdoor recreation, or hospitality environments.
Extensive knowledge of equine health management, riding instruction, and barn operations.
Proven operational leadership skills, including experience managing budgets, scheduling, staff development, and safety programs.
Strong decision-making and problem-solving capabilities, particularly in fast-paced, guest-facing environments.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Demonstrated experience managing large-scale equestrian or tour operations.
Strong communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with guests, staff, and senior leadership.
Knowledge or appreciation of Hawaiian culture, history, and land stewardship practices.
Proficiency in administrative software, operational analytics, and scheduling platforms.
Emergency response training or certifications (e.g., Wilderness First Responder, advanced equine first aid).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to ride, mount, and dismount horses independently.
Be comfortable riding/guiding for up to 6 hours each shift.
Capable of lifting up to 75 lbs regularly (saddles, feed, tack).
Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions and rugged terrain.
Must be physically able to perform strenuous activities and respond swiftly to emergencies involving horses or guests.