Creative Operations Studio Manager

Overview

• We are seeking a hands-on Creative Operations & Studio Manager who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment where problem-solving happens daily. This role is critical to maintaining the smooth functioning of our photography studio and graphic design team, balancing strategic oversight with day-to-day management, ensuring operational excellence and efficiency.

Responsibilities

Strategic Responsibilities (20% of Role)

• Ability to manage a high volume of creative projects across competing strategic priorities.
• Manage internal stakeholder relationships across departments.
• Develop and monitor budget and resource allocation strategies.
• Design and implement project timeline frameworks and SLA’s, for internal teams.
• Collaborate with leadership to optimize creative team performance.
• Plan, budget, and organize 4-5 offsite photography shoots a year.
• Contribute to creative development processes to ensure consistent brand governance.
• Establish Standard Operating Procedures for Photography and Graphics teams.
• Champions and demonstrated a committtment to Kirkland's Home Values.

Operational Responsibilities (80% of Role)

• Operationalize Graphics and Photos workflows to plan, prioritize, and deliver work on time.
• Manage photography studio assets: equipment, gear, sets, etc. (maintain, dispose, buy/sell).
• Daily administrative duties to oversee hourly photography staff schedules using Time Clock.
• Planning with Lead Graphic Designer for graphic design project workflow optimization.
• Oversees Time & Action Calendar for critical Marketing milestones: Seasonal Packaging, Merch Packs, Store Collateral, Photoshoots, etc.
• Facilitate clear and efficient internal and external stakeholder communication.
• Provide direct daily team management and support.
• Maintain rigorous creative quality control standards for Photography & Graphics teams.
• Ensure seamless operational efficiency for the photography studio environment.
• Balance time effectively across Photography Studio & Graphic Design needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Communications, Design Management, or related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in creative operations, project management, or studio management.
• Proven experience managing creative workflows in marketing, design, or media environments.
• Advanced proficiency in project management tools (Trello, Asana, Workfront, Monday.com).
• Strong technical skills with Adobe Creative Suite and collaboration platforms.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills
• Strong project management expertise
• Ability to work flexibly across multiple spaces (floating desk)
• Proven track record of operational efficiency
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities
• Ability to sit at a computer for extended periods of time
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time
• Ability to lift up to 30lbs.