Executive Director of Operations

Country Club Lodging, LLC•Kansas City, MO

20m•Onsite

About The Position

Executive Director, Operations – (6-Month Assignment) March - August We are seeking a seasoned hotel operations executive for a six-month interim assignment to ensure exceptional operational execution during a major global event and to elevate the overall performance of the Cascade Hotel. This role combines hands-on operational leadership with executive coaching and culture development. The selected candidate will take ownership of day-to-day operational performance, lead comprehensive event readiness planning, and actively develop the General Manager to ensure long-term leadership success. Key Objectives Deliver flawless operational execution for the upcoming global event Stabilize and improve overall hotel performance Strengthen associate culture and morale Develop and prepare the General Manager for long-term success Establish sustainable operational standards that remain after the assignment concludes Core Responsibilities Event Readiness & Execution Develop and execute a comprehensive operational readiness timeline Create staffing models and hiring ramp plans Implement cross-department training and service readiness programs Lead food & beverage revenue optimization strategies Ensure operational readiness of all outlets and guest spaces Coordinate cross-functional execution through structured leadership meetings Operational Performance Leadership Take ownership of daily operational performance Lead business reviews and drive accountability across departments Optimize labor productivity and cost controls Improve service quality and guest satisfaction metrics Strengthen executive committee alignment and execution Culture & Associate Engagement Maintain a visible and supportive presence on the floor Reinforce service standards and accountability Support leadership development across department heads Drive initiatives that improve associate engagement and morale General Manager Development Provide structured weekly coaching and mentorship Develop financial and operational leadership capabilities Model executive decision-making and communication Gradually transition operational ownership back to the General Manager Ideal Candidate Profile 15+ years of senior leadership experience in full-service hotels Strong food & beverage operational background Experience managing large-scale events or high-volume operations Proven ability to stabilize and elevate operational performance Executive presence with a coaching and mentorship mindset Strong financial and labor management expertise Calm, decisive leadership style under pressure Engagement Structure Six-month interim assignment Direct reporting to EVP Operational authority over hotel performance during the engagement Clear transition plan at assignment conclusion Compensation Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience. The engagement may be structured as either: Interim executive employment (W2 equivalent), or Independent consulting engagement (1099) Assignment Outcome At the conclusion of the engagement, the hotel will have: Successfully executed a major global event Improved operational performance and stability A fully prepared and confident General Manager Strengthened leadership culture and associate engagement Sustainable operational systems for continued success This role is ideal for a highly experienced hotel executive seeking a focused, high-impact assignment with meaningful leadership influence and measurable results.