B.Riley Farber has been retained to recruit a strategic and entrepreneurial Vice President (VP) Operations for a highly successful business in the hospitality industry, currently going through a stage of rapid growth. Backed by Canadian private equity and run by the original founder, they have made significant investments into their existing assets and plan to acquire new facilities, continuing to grow the portfolio across the GTA. This is a newly created position reporting directly to the CEO.

Our client is aspiring to change the landscape of their industry across Canada by providing best in class accommodation services, culinary experience, and health & wellness options. Their focus on providing an elevated guest experience is second to none.

The VP Operations will be responsible for setting and leading the overall operational direction and cultural tone of the company, leading a team, operating as a key member of the senior leadership team and driving performance across all facilities. They will continue the company’s mission to build a best-in-class brand, operating strategy and platform. They will inherit and continue to develop a high performing team of four General Managers, and senior managers across Operations, Guest Services, Marketing, Dining & Nutrition, Facilities, Human Resources, overseeing a total head count of 350 employees.

This opportunity is for a driven operational leader who recognizes that building lasting relationships and leading with empathy and dedication is key to success.

Ways in which you will add-value and directly contribute are:

• Progressive Strategic Management: Oversee operations while enhancing efficiency and guest satisfaction, launching programs in line with, and furthering industry trends
• Operational Protocols: Develop companywide operational services and health and safety guidelines to maintain consistent peak industry standards across the entire portfolio
• Growth Planning: Support the CEO and PE group with detailed operational and financial reporting for current facilities while assessing opportunity for new facility development and expansion
• Set A High-Performance Culture: Drive a goal-oriented culture of success, accountability and continuous learning while always ensuring guest and staff wellbeing is the primary focus
• Relationships And Visibility: Develop meaningful professional relationships with company employees, the SLT, and external stakeholders while representing the company in the public realm

Qualifications and experience required for the role:

• Industry Experience: 10+ years of progressive operational and leadership experience in the hospitality industry overseeing a multisite operation
• Education: Relevant business management or hospitality industry education is preferred. An MBA and/or a real estate focused Masters degree is highly desirable
• Strategic Business and Financial Acumen: Experience setting and executing strategy while leading a business through a significant growth phase. Strong financial capability and P&L understanding
• Operational Excellence: A track record of enhancing operational workflows, improving customer experiences, and managing large-scale facilities or properties
• Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to build relationships with internal and external stakeholders, support the CEO in investor meetings and represent the business at public events

Please apply directly and in confidence to be considered for the role or reach out to atodd@brileyfin.com for more information.