Director of Operations - Airport

Location: Austin, TX | Full-time, onsite
Base Salary: $130,000–$150,000 annually
Compensation: 25% bonus opportunity + full benefits

An established airport hospitality operator is seeking a Director of Operations to lead a portfolio of food, beverage, and retail locations in Austin, Texas. This senior leadership role oversees financial performance, operational standards, leadership development, and client relationships across a fast-paced airport environment.

We are seeking an experienced airport operations leader with a strong background managing union teams and overseeing 15 or more locations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations across multiple airport food, beverage, and retail concepts, ensuring exceptional guest service and consistent brand standards.

• Drive financial performance through budget management, labor planning, cost controls, and business analysis.

• Lead, mentor, and develop Assistant Directors and Concept Managers, building a strong leadership pipeline.

• Foster a positive workplace culture focused on accountability, employee engagement, and retention.

• Maintain strong relationships with airport stakeholders, clients, and business partners.

• Ensure compliance with food safety, brand requirements, airport badging procedures, and payroll standards.

• Oversee staffing, scheduling, storefront presentation, and timely location openings.

• Partner with regional leadership and corporate departments to execute business strategies and resolve operational challenges.

Required Qualifications

• At least 7 years of upper-management experience at the Director level or above.

• At least 7 years of leadership experience in food, beverage, and retail operations.

• At least 7 years of upper-management experience overseeing 15 or more locations.

• Airport food, beverage, and retail operations experience at the Director level or above.

• Union management experience.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Hospitality, or a related field.

• Demonstrated success managing a multimillion-dollar business.

• Strong financial, strategic planning, communication, and team development skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant business management software.

A master’s degree is a plus.

Compensation & Work Environment

• $130,000–$150,000 annual base salary.

• 25% bonus opportunity.

• Full benefits package.

• Approximately 50–55 hours per week.

• Onsite leadership role with regular visibility throughout airport operations.

• Local candidates preferred; candidates relocating to the area may be considered. Must reside within a maximum 45-minute commute.

The role involves extended standing and occasional lifting or moving of up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties.

Apply for confidential consideration. Please highlight your airport operations experience, union management background, and the number of locations you have overseen.