About the Role
San Diego Magazine & Here We Are Studio is seeking an experienced operational leader to own the internal engine of a growing media and events company. This role is responsible for overseeing operations, finance, accounting coordination, and internal systems—ensuring the business runs smoothly, sustainably, and intelligently as we scale.
This person will serve as the internal authority on financial health, operational priorities, and day-to-day decision-making, allowing the CEO to focus on revenue growth, partnerships, brand leadership, and strategy.
Key Responsibilities (including but not limited to):
Operations & Business Management
- Own day-to-day operational decision-making across the company
- Serve as the internal point person for “how things work” questions
- Establish and refine internal processes, workflows, and systems
- Manage vendor relationships and contracts
- Oversee office operations, purchasing, and resource allocation
- Identify operational risks and proactively solve problems
Finance & Accounting Oversight
- Own internal financial operations and cash management
- Partner with fractional finance and accounting teams to:
- Review weekly cash flow reports
- Manage payables and payment prioritization
- Oversee payroll coordination and approvals
- Make informed recommendations on spending, timing, and tradeoffs
- Prepare clear financial summaries and decision briefs for leadership
- Ensure financial discipline without slowing growth
People Operations & HR Coordination
- Serve as first point of contact for payroll, benefits, and HR-related questions
- Partner with fractional HR support on compliance, onboarding, and policies
- Support managers with headcount planning and role clarity
- Ensure internal communication and accountability across teams
Leadership & Strategy Support
- Act as a trusted operational partner to the CEO
- Translate strategic goals into executable plans
- Provide clarity and structure during periods of growth or constraint
- Bring solutions, scenarios, and recommendations—not just data
What We’re Looking For
- 5+ years experience in operations, finance, or general management roles
- Experience in small-to-mid-sized businesses ($2M–$10M revenue range)
- Strong financial literacy and comfort with cash flow management
- Calm, decisive, and highly organized
- Excellent communicator who earns trust across teams
- Comfortable working across creative, sales, and operational functions
- Experience in media, events, or agency a plus
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $120,000-160,000
- Medical Insurance
- Paid Sick, Holiday and Vacation
- 401K Plan
Why This Role Matters
This is a high-impact leadership position with real authority and visibility. You will shape how the company runs internally and directly influence its ability to grow sustainably. If you thrive in environments where structure meets creativity—and where your work makes leadership more effective—this role offers both challenge and meaning.
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
