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Founding Director Of Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rox

Founding Director of Partnerships

San Francisco, CA · On-site

About the Role This is a founding-level Director of Partnerships role for someone to sit directly alongside our Sales organization, acting as the ecosystem expert, a deal strategist, and the co-sell ...

OuterFactor

Director of Operations

Galesburg, MI · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Director of Operations Location: Galesburg, MI (On-site) Compensation: $90,000 - $115,000 base ... access to the founding team and real influence over how operations scale What You'll Do ...

ICBD

Director of Operations

Braintree, MA · On-site

Director of Operations - ABA Centers of Massachusetts Braintree, MA Who We Are We are the nation ... Since our founding in 2020, we've scaled from a single clinic to nearly 70 operating areas in more ...

Signal of Olive Branch

Director of Operations

Memphis, TN · On-site

$70K/yr

Director of Operations Reports To: Franchise Owners, Regional Executive Director of Operations Pay rate: $70,000 yearly Location: Signal of Olive Branch [This role may involve supporting operations ...

Vivid Impact

Director of Operations

Louisville, KY · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Since our founding in 1974, we have combined creativity with precision to deliver innovative print ... The Director of Operations is responsible for the day-to-day leadership, coordination, and ...

CMR Recruiting

Director of Operations

Independence, OH

$100K - $130K/yr

Director of Operations for our Pediatric Behavioral Health Program Compensation: $100,000 - $130,000 Annual Salary Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term and short-term ...

Relevante, Inc.

Director of Operations

Paterson, NJ · On-site

This Director of Operations role is part of a growing operation focused on scaling production, improving efficiencies, and maintaining strict industry and customer compliance standards. Open to local ...

Ob Hospitalist Group

Director of Operations

$135K - $145K/yr

The Director of Operations, working collaboratively with a Market Medical Director and Vice President of Operations, is responsible for, but not limited to, the operational performance, client ...

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Founding Director Of Operations information

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$34K

$107.7K

$179.5K

How much do founding director of operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for founding director of operations in the United States is $107,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Founding Director Of Operations vs Operations Manager?

AspectFounding Director Of OperationsOperations Manager
CredentialsTypically requires extensive experience in operations, leadership, and often a background in business or industry-specific certificationsUsually requires a bachelor's degree in business, management, or related field; some roles prefer experience or certifications in operations
Work EnvironmentInvolved in strategic planning, startup development, and high-level decision-making, often in early-stage or growing organizationsFocuses on day-to-day operations, process management, and team supervision within established organizations
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly found in startups, new ventures, or organizations in growth phasesWidely used across industries in established companies managing operational functions

The Founding Director Of Operations is a strategic, high-level role focused on establishing and guiding operational frameworks in new or growing organizations. In contrast, an Operations Manager handles daily operational activities within established companies. Both roles require operational knowledge, but the Founding Director Of Operations emphasizes startup development and strategic planning.

Which is higher, COO or director of operations?

A COO (Chief Operating Officer) is generally a higher executive role than a Director of Operations. The COO oversees multiple departments and reports directly to the CEO, while the Director of Operations typically manages specific operational functions within an organization. The Director of Operations often reports to the COO or another senior executive depending on the company's structure.

What are Founding Directors of Operations?

A Founding Director of Operations is an executive leader responsible for establishing and overseeing the operational systems, processes, and teams of a new organization or startup. They play a critical role in building the foundation for the company's day-to-day activities, ensuring efficiency, scalability, and alignment with the overall business strategy. Their duties often include managing resources, implementing best practices, and coordinating between different departments to support growth and success. As 'founding' directors, they are usually among the first key hires and help shape the culture and operational vision of the organization.

How much does a head of operations get paid?

A Founding Director of Operations typically earns between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the company's size, industry, and location. Senior operations roles often include bonuses and benefits, and candidates with strong leadership and strategic skills are in high demand.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Founding Director of Operations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Founding Director of Operations, you need expertise in business management, process optimization, and strategic planning, often backed by a degree in business administration or a related field. Familiarity with project management tools (such as Asana or Trello), financial software, and data analytics systems is typically required. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills are crucial for building teams and driving organizational growth. These competencies are essential for establishing efficient operations and ensuring the early success and scalability of the organization.

What are the main challenges a Founding Director of Operations typically faces in a startup environment?

As a Founding Director of Operations in a startup, you’ll often navigate challenges such as building processes from scratch, managing rapid growth, and balancing multiple responsibilities across teams. You may need to establish operational frameworks, oversee hiring and onboarding, and ensure cross-functional alignment with product, marketing, and finance leaders. Flexibility and adaptability are key, as priorities can shift quickly based on company needs and market feedback. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape company culture and infrastructure while working closely with the founding team.

Is a director of operations a high position?

A director of operations is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing daily business activities, strategic planning, and operational efficiency. It is generally considered a high-level position within an organization, often reporting to executive management such as the CEO or COO.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as Chief Executive Officers, investment bankers, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and significant responsibility, and compensation may include bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing.
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What cities are hiring for Founding Director Of Operations jobs? Cities with the most Founding Director Of Operations job openings:
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Founding Director Of Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Founding Director Of Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,680 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Founding Director of Operations

Hustle & Dough

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Own day-to-day operational performance across the market.

  • Lead all operational aspects of new store openings.

  • Recruit, hire, onboard, and develop top hospitality talent.

Job description

About Hustle & Dough

Hustle & Dough is the exclusive Midwest development group for PopUp Bagels — one of the fastest-growing and most culturally relevant food brands in the country.


We’re not building a single shop. We’re building a regional platform. Backed by years of experience scaling multi-unit franchise and hospitality businesses, our mission is to bring the energy, hospitality, and cult-like customer experience of PopUp Bagels to the Midwest through world-class operations, incredible people, and relentless execution.


Our first locations are launching in the Twin Cities, with plans to scale aggressively across the region over the next several years and this is an opportunity to join at the ground floor.

 

About PopUp Bagels 

PopUp Bagels is not just a bagel company—we’re a cultural movement. Our stores are small, our vibes are loud, and our energy is contagious. From signature neon and iconic bullhorns to our “Not Famous but Known” mirror, we’ve reimagined not just how a bagel is created, but how it’s enjoyed: Grip, Rip and Dip! With a cult-like following, massive social presence, and unparalleled collaborations with top companies, partners and Brand Ambassadors, PopUp Bagels is defining a new food lifestyle brand. 

We keep things simple, but we do them really, really well. And our customers agree. 


About the Role:

This is not a traditional restaurant management role.


As Founding Director of Operations, you will work directly alongside the owners to launch, build, and scale PopUp Bagels throughout the Midwest.


Your first responsibility will be opening and operating our first two locations. Your long-term responsibility will be building the systems, culture, leadership team, and operational infrastructure required to scale a multi-unit business.


The ideal candidate is equally comfortable hiring a shift leader, training in the kitchen, opening a new location, coaching managers, reviewing financial performance, and helping shape the future of the organization.


This role is designed for someone who wants to build something meaningful, lead people, and grow into the senior operational leader of a rapidly expanding business.


What Success Looks Like


First 6 Months

  • Complete PopUp Bagels training program in New York
  • Lead hiring and onboarding for Location #1
  • Build a strong culture and operating foundation
  • Recruit and develop key leadership positions, including future shop leaders and production leaders
  • Successfully open and stabilize the first location


Months 6–18

  • Lead hiring and opening efforts for Location #2
  • Develop future General Managers and leadership bench
  • Build operational systems and routines that can scale
  • Drive guest experience, profitability, and team retention


Year 2+

  • Oversee multiple locations across the market
  • Lead future openings
  • Develop district and store-level leadership
  • Partner with ownership on growth strategy, budgeting, and expansion planning
  • Serve as the operational leader for the Minnesota market


Key Responsibilities


Operations Leadership

  • Own day-to-day operational performance across the market
  • Drive execution, accountability, and consistency across locations
  • Monitor KPIs, labor, food costs, sales performance, and profitability
  • Establish scalable systems and operating procedures
  • Ensure exceptional guest experiences at every location


Talent & Leadership Development

  • Recruit, hire, onboard, and develop top hospitality talent
  • Build a leadership pipeline capable of supporting future growth
  • Coach and mentor General Managers and emerging leaders
  • Create a culture of accountability, hospitality, and continuous improvement


New Store Openings

  • Lead all operational aspects of new store openings
  • Build opening teams and training plans
  • Partner with founders and corporate teams during development and launch
  • Ensure new locations open with strong culture, standards, and operational readiness


Community & Brand Building

  • Serve as a key ambassador for PopUp Bagels throughout Minnesota
  • Build relationships with local businesses, community organizations, and strategic partners
  • Help establish PopUp Bagels as a destination brand within each community


Ideal Experience

We are less focused on titles and more focused on demonstrated leadership and scale.


Strong candidates may come from:


  • Multi-unit restaurant operations
  • District Manager or Area Manager roles
  • Director of Operations roles
  • Regional hospitality leadership
  • High-growth restaurant concepts
  • Multi-unit bakery, coffee, cafĂ©, or fast-casual brands


Preferred qualifications:

  • Multi-unit leadership experience
  • Experience opening new locations
  • Strong financial and operational acumen
  • Proven ability to recruit and develop leaders
  • High emotional intelligence and communication skills
  • Passion for hospitality, food, and culture-building


Why This Opportunity Is Different

Most hospitality leadership roles involve maintaining an existing operation.

This role is about building one.


You'll help establish the foundation for one of the most exciting food brands in the country while creating a long-term career path with significant responsibility, autonomy, and growth potential.


If you're excited by the idea of building a market, leading great people, and helping scale a business from the ground floor, we'd love to talk.


Additional Role Note: 

The duties of this position may change from time to time. PopUp Bagels reserves the right to add or delete duties and responsibilities at the discretion of PopUp Bagels or its managers. This job description is intended to describe the general work level. It is not intended to be all-inclusive. 

PopUp Bagels is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, age, ancestry, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related condition, unemployment status, gender identity or expression, transgender status or gender dysphoria, marital status, domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking victim status, national origin, citizenship, disability, covered veteran and/or military status, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristic, familial status as that term is described under other protected statuses or any other characteristic as protected under applicable federal, state and local law. 

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