Studio Manager

About Studs

Studs is a pioneering ear piercing and earring brand recognized as one of the "10 most innovative companies in retail for 2023" by Fast Company. We provide a comprehensive Earscaping® experience that integrates ear piercing, aftercare, and earring shopping with a focus on safety, professionalism, and a welcoming atmosphere. Our product range offers a wide variety of earrings at accessible prices in a modern retail and digital environment.

Role Overview

The Studio Manager leads all facets of studio operations in Austin, TX, overseeing a team to deliver exemplary customer experiences and drive sales growth. This full-time, hands-on leadership role requires managing retail and piercing operations while fostering a positive team culture focused on performance and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct overall studio performance by driving revenue and meeting sales targets.
• Analyze business reports to uncover opportunities and refine strategies.
• Delegate duties among management team members and ensure consistent follow-through.
• Manage staff scheduling within labor budgets and ensure payroll accuracy through audits.
• Maintain rigorous compliance with piercing protocols, health and safety standards, and inventory control.
• Collaborate with Piercing Leadership to uphold technical standards and implement best practices.
• Deliver welcoming, educational customer interactions, leading by example in service excellence.
• Implement service recovery methods and monitor customer feedback for continuous improvement.
• Develop, coach, and mentor a diverse team including Assistant Studio Manager, Supervisors, Sales Associates, and Piercers.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive environment promoting trust and belonging.
• Manage employee relations thoughtfully alongside cross-functional partners.
• Lead initiatives for change management to adapt to evolving business priorities.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years' management experience in customer-facing roles such as Store Manager or Studio Manager; experience in jewelry, piercing, or retail services is advantageous.
• Proven track record managing teams of 7 or more employees, including specialized skill roles.
• Availability for on-site work five days a week (40 hours minimum), including evenings, weekends, and holidays, with typical days off on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
• Ability to stand for extended hours (8+) and lift or move weights of at least 20 lbs.
• Capability to safely handle chemicals and strictly follow health and safety protocols.
• Strong operational and financial skills with demonstrated achievement of business goals.
• Positive, accountable mindset and creative problem-solving aptitude.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage change in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits and Perks

• Comprehensive health benefits including Medical, Dental, and Vision (mental health visits at no cost).
• Access to mental health resources, online therapy, gender affirmation support, and Employee Assistance Program.
• Voluntary Life Insurance coverage.
• Participation in Health and Commuter tax-advantaged accounts.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Paid time off including sick leave, safe leave, parental leave, and sabbatical after four years.
• Employee discounts on piercings and jewelry extendable to friends and family.
• Additional benefits such as pet insurance, discounted entertainment tickets, personal finance coaching, and wellness rewards through PerkSpot.

Diversity and Compliance

Studs is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing equal opportunities without discrimination based on legally protected characteristics. Accommodations for the application process are available upon request. The company also complies with local and state laws, including Massachusetts regulations prohibiting lie detector tests as employment conditions.