Operations Manager - Horseback
About The Position
Kualoa Ranch Hawai‘i is hiring an Operations Manager to lead its horseback operations in Kaneohe, Hawai‘i. This on-site, full-time role oversees the Horseback Operations team and daily tour operations, with responsibility for staff leadership, guest experience and safety, herd and facility management, and departmental administration. The position requires flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as well as occasional on-call responsibilities. The manager supervises and develops staff, establishes and maintains operating procedures, monitors operational performance, and responds to guest concerns and emergencies. The role also coordinates equine care, equipment and barn upkeep, trail maintenance, budgets, procurement, and department reporting in collaboration with senior management. The position requires riding, mounting, and dismounting horses independently; riding or guiding for up to six hours per shift; regularly lifting up to 75 pounds; and working outdoors in varying weather and rugged terrain. The manager must also be able to perform strenuous activities and respond quickly to emergencies involving horses or guests. No relocation package is provided.
Requirements
- At least 3 years of supervisory or management experience, preferably in equestrian, outdoor recreation, or hospitality environments.
- Extensive knowledge of equine health management, riding instruction, and barn operations.
- Operational leadership experience, including managing budgets, scheduling, staff development, and safety programs.
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities, particularly in fast-paced, guest-facing environments.
- Ability to ride, mount, and dismount horses independently.
- Comfort riding or guiding for up to 6 hours each shift.
- Ability to regularly lift up to 75 pounds, including saddles, feed, and tack.
- Comfort working outdoors in varying weather conditions and rugged terrain.
- Physical ability to perform strenuous activities and respond swiftly to emergencies involving horses or guests.
Nice To Haves
- Experience managing large-scale equestrian or tour operations.
- Strong communication skills and ability to interact effectively 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, such as Wilderness First Responder or advanced equine first aid.
Responsibilities
- Directly supervise and mentor the Horseback Operations team, including hiring, training, scheduling, performance evaluations, and professional development.
- Lead training programs that support consistent safety standards, guest service, and operational procedures.
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and safe working environment.
- Oversee daily horseback tour operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and compliance with ranch standards.
- Develop and implement operational strategies and standard operating procedures to improve productivity, safety, and guest satisfaction.
- Analyze operational metrics, guest feedback, and incident reports to identify and resolve challenges.
- Ensure exceptional guest experiences through staff training, ongoing assessments, and adherence to safety protocols.
- Serve as the primary decision-maker during emergencies, including weather-related adjustments and incident management.
- Monitor and improve guest safety standards and promptly resolve guest concerns and incidents.
- Oversee herd management, including coordination of veterinary care, nutrition, grooming, and health assessments.
- Ensure proper care, storage, and maintenance of tack, equipment, and barn facilities.
- Coordinate facility upkeep and trail maintenance to maintain safe and effective operating conditions.
- Manage department budgets, payroll, and procurement of supplies, tack, feed, and other essential items.
- Collaborate with senior management to align departmental goals and initiatives with organizational objectives.
- Maintain accurate and timely incident documentation, staffing reports, and financial records.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
