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.