Associate Director of Operations

Associate Director of Operations

Department: Operations

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Houston, TX

Reporting To: Director of Operations

Description

ABOUT UOVO

Are you ready to embark on a journey where your passion for art, fashion, culture, and excellence converge? Welcome to UOVO-the epitome of sophistication in storage, management, and logistics of valuable art, fashion, and wine. We invite all voices, experiences, and talents to join us and become part of an unparalleled journey where your career aspirations align with the remarkable. With state-of-the-art facilities across the country, we work towards exceeding expectations, for both our clients and employees alike.

At UOVO, we are more than logistics; we are architects of bespoke solutions and curators of extraordinary experiences. From climate-controlled storage to private viewing galleries, industry-leading technology to a full suite of services, UOVO crafts tailored solutions that go beyond preservation-they elevate.

As part of the UOVO team you will work alongside industry professionals who share a passion for art, fashion, and logistics in a collaborative environment where your expertise contributes to the best-in-class employment and client experience UOVO provides

Associate Director of Operations, Houston

UOVO is the premier storage and logistics provider for art, archives, and collectibles with state-of-the-art facilities in New York, Delaware, Michigan, Florida, California, Colorado, and Texas. UOVO is operated by an expert team of industry professionals and offers bespoke solutions to meet the specialized needs of any collection. Our services include climate-controlled storage, private viewing galleries, local transportation, international shipping, installation, packing, archival photography, digital inventory management, and more.

UOVO seeks an Associate Director of Operations to join its dynamic and growing team. Reporting to the Director of Operations, this role would oversee all technical staff in Houston ensuring the highest level of care and client service as pertains to the handling, storage, and transportation of fine art, fashion, and other collectibles. The ideal candidate will lead, manage, and mentor the Houston Operations team while regularly coordinating with key stakeholders within the organization.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of UOVO professionals, including Transportation Manager, Technical Services Supervisor, Inventory Control Coordinator, Crating Supervisor, Dispatcher, Art Handlers, and Art Handler/Drivers, to deliver exceptional client service and operational excellence.
• Partner with departmental leadership to allocate art handling staff effectively in support of internal operations and onsite client requirements.
• Plan and oversee onsite installations and de-installations, ensuring precise inventory control and superior client support.
• Direct and execute complex end-to-end logistics operations with a focus on efficiency, safety, and accountability.
• Oversee safe and efficient storage and crating operations in Houston for special projects, including racking systems, forklift training, OSHA compliance, barcoding, scanning, and inventory control.
• Maintain and optimize managed storage areas to ensure maximum facility efficiency and seamless daily operations.
• Collaborate with the Operations Compliance team to support adherence to the TSA Certified Cargo Screening Program, including training and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure service work is scheduled and completed efficiently in alignment with Account Management and Business Development objectives.
• Align all operational activities with UOVO policies, procedures, and company-wide initiatives.
• Manage regional budgets, monitor income and expenses, and drive performance to achieve financial targets.
• Oversee procurement of supplies and equipment and process related accounts payable activities.
• Recruit, hire, and onboard Operations team members, ensuring completion of training and professional development.
• Establish performance goals aligned with UOVO's Performance Management program and provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and annual reviews for direct reports and their teams.
• Cultivate a positive, engaged, and high-performing work environment through mentorship, coaching, and leadership by example.
• Lead warehouse efficiency projects, including new facility setup and existing facility reorganization, in partnership with the Facilities team.
• Perform additional responsibilities and special projects as assigned by senior leadership.

Qualifications & Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across all levels of an organization
• Proactive and solution-oriented mindset, capable of thinking creatively and making sound decisions in dynamic environments
• Proven experience managing complex operational processes and driving continuous improvement
• Strong people management and leadership skills, with a focus on coaching, developing, and motivating…