Operations Manager: Retail, Tours & Guest Experience - MDPL

Operations Manager – Retail, Tours & Guest Experience

Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL)

Lead the public-facing operations of one of Miami Beach’s most iconic cultural institutions. This role oversees retail, tours, staff, and guest experience at the Art Deco Welcome Center while helping prepare the organization for its 50th anniversary. Ideal for a mission-driven leader who enjoys building systems, developing teams, and connecting visitors to the architectural story of Miami Beach.

About Us

The Miami Design Preservation League’s mission is to preserve, protect, and promote the architectural, cultural, social, and environmental integrity of Miami Beach and the surrounding areas.

We are stewards of a globally significant cultural landscape. Through tours, programming, retail, and public engagement, we educate residents and visitors about why preservation matters — and why it must continue. We are also cultural ambassadors for the City of Miami Beach.

As we prepare for our 50th anniversary in 2027, we are strengthening our internal systems, elevating our standards, and refining our operations. This role is central to that evolution and will help shape the next chapter of our organization.

Overview

The Operations Manager – Retail, Tours & Guest Experience is responsible for overseeing and enhancing the daily operations of the Art Deco Welcome Center, including retail sales, guided tours, and overall visitor experience. This role ensures efficient operations, high-quality service delivery, and strong revenue performance across all public-facing functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the Art Deco Welcome Center, including retail, tours, and guest services
• Manage and optimize retail performance, including merchandising, inventory control, and sales tracking
• Supervise tour operations, including scheduling, ticketing, and guide coordination
• Ensure a high-quality, welcoming, and educational visitor experience for all guests
• Hire, train, schedule, and supervise front-line staff and tour guides
• Develop and implement operational systems, procedures, and best practices
• Monitor performance metrics and prepare reports related to revenue, attendance, and operations
• Collaborate with leadership on strategy, programming, and revenue growth initiatives
• Address guest feedback, resolve issues, and continuously improve service standards
• Coordinate with marketing and partnerships teams to support tours and retail initiatives

Qualifications

• Experience in operations, retail management, hospitality, tourism, or a related field
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent customer service and communication abilities
• Experience managing budgets, revenue tracking, and performance metrics is a plus
• Ability to develop systems and improve operational efficiency
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Passion for cultural institutions, history, or preservation is preferred

Work Environment

This is an on-site role based at the Art Deco Welcome Center in Miami Beach. The position may require weekend and holiday availability to support peak visitor periods and special events.

Why Join MDPL

Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to preserving Miami Beach’s unique cultural identity. This is an opportunity to play a leadership role in shaping visitor experiences, strengthening operations, and contributing to the legacy of one of the most important preservation organizations in the country.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to meg@mdpl.org. Applications must include both documents to be considered.

Please include “Operations Manager – Retail, Tours & Guest Experience” in the subject line of your email.