Collection & Operations Lead

Ravine House is a new platform in Hubbard Woods, Winnetka, presenting an evolving collection from artists, makers and design studios alongside antiques and collected objects.

We are seeking a thoughtful, capable person to join Ravine House at the ground floor and help shape its day-to-day experience and operations. The Collection & Operations Lead will become a trusted presence at Ravine House, represent the collection with confidence and warmth, and work closely with the founder to establish the systems and rhythms of a new business.

The Collection & Operations Lead will help prepare Ravine House for opening and, once open, oversee the space independently during designated public hours. Responsibilities will include:

• Welcoming clients and creating a warm, informed and delightful experience
• Learning and communicating the stories behind the artists, makers and objects in the Ravine House collection
• Handling purchases through Shopify POS, wrapping pieces beautifully, and coordinating pickups or deliveries
• Managing opening and closing procedures
• Receiving, tagging, pricing and organizing new work
• Maintaining accurate information about the collection and sales
• Keeping the space and its work and storage areas organized and presentation-ready
• Monitoring packaging, supplies and other operational needs
• Supporting merchandising changes, installations, exhibitions and events
• Recording client interests and assisting with thoughtful follow-up
• Helping develop practical systems and improve them as Ravine House evolves

The right person will combine visual sensitivity with strong operational instincts. They will be equally comfortable discussing a significant work of art, wrapping a gift purchase beautifully, organizing a delivery and solving an unexpected problem.

Ideally, this person is:

• Warm, polished and self-possessed
• Highly organized, reliable and attentive to detail
• Genuinely interested in art, craft, design, interiors or gardens
• Comfortable working independently and exercising good judgment
• Confident engaging with clients without being overly sales-oriented
• Willing to participate in every aspect of a small, early-stage business
• Comfortable with technology and able to learn Shopify and related systems
• Experienced in a gallery, design studio, museum, independent creative business or similarly thoughtful client-facing environment
• Prior experience in every aspect of the role is not required. Judgment, curiosity, follow-through and an authentic connection to the Ravine House point of view will matter most.

Location:

Hubbard Woods, Winnetka, Illinois

Schedule:

Approximately 20–25 hours per week initially, including regular Saturday availability and occasional evenings for events

Start date:

Early November 2026
Compensation: $27 – $32 per hour, commensurate with experience
Growth:
The role has the potential to expand in responsibility and hours as Ravine House develops