Operations Director at the Capitol Theatre
Position Overview
The Operations Director is responsible for the day-to-day management, execution of executive leadership’s strategic planning, and overall operational success of an independent historic art house cinema. This role blends hands-on leadership with big-picture thinking, ensuring that the theatre runs smoothly while preserving its unique cultural identity and community focus.
The Operations Director serves as a steward of the landmark cinema and oversees staff, facilities, guest experience, concessions, technical operations, and administrative processes. The role works closely with programming, marketing, and executive leadership to support regular screenings, special events, rentals, festivals, and community programs.
Reports to: Executive leadership / Executive Director, Capitol Theatre Inc.
Worksite: The historic Capitol Theatre, 1390 West 65th Street, Cleveland, OH 44102
Compensation
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This is a full-time, salaried, overtime-exempt position with a salary range of $50,000–$55,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
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Competitive health benefits
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The organization does not request or rely on an applicant’s compensation history in determining whether to offer employment or in setting compensation.
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In compliance with Cleveland Municipal Code Chapter 664
Key Responsibilities
Daily Operations
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Oversee all front-of-house and back-of-house operations, including box office, concessions, projection, and facility management, including cleaning and maintenance needs.
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Create staff schedules based on expected attendance, screenings, events, rentals, and operational needs.
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Set up shows in the ticketing and sales system.
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Ensure technical execution of all shows and special events meets the highest standards.
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Ensure consistent, high-quality guest experiences aligned with the cinema’s art house mission and brand.
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Maintain smooth daily operations during regular screenings, special events, festivals, and community programs.
Staff Leadership & Development
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Recruit, hire, train, schedule, and supervise theatre staff and supervisors.
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Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture.
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Conduct performance reviews, coaching, and disciplinary actions when necessary.
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Ensure compliance with labor laws, organizational policies, and workplace safety standards.
Financial & Administrative Management
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Manage payment handling, transaction procedures, deposits as needed, and related controls.
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Oversee submission of payroll information to Business Administration.
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Manage inventory, purchasing, and supply needs.
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Track performance against operating budgets and control expenses.
Facility & Technical Oversight
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Coordinate maintenance and repair of the building, projection equipment, point of sale systems, concessions & beverage equipment sound systems, seating, and other theatre infrastructure.
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Manage vendor relationships for technical services, cleaning, concessions, supplies, and facility needs.
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Ensure the facility meets applicable safety, accessibility, and regulatory requirements.
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Flag facility, equipment, and operational needs for senior leadership and keep leadership apprised of equipment condition.
Guest Experience & Community Engagement
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Maintain a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible environment for diverse audiences.
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Address guest concerns or complaints with professionalism and care.
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Support special screenings, filmmaker Q&As, festivals, rentals, and community events.
Strategic & Cross-Departmental Collaboration
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Work with programming to ensure smooth scheduling and operational support for films and events.
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Collaborate with marketing on promotions, campaigns, audience outreach, and event logistics.
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Contribute to strategic planning, operational improvements, and long-term sustainability.
Required Qualifications
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3–5+ years of management or operations experience; theatre, cinema, live events, hospitality, or arts organization experience preferred.
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Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
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Experience managing staff schedules, payroll processes, and daily financial procedures.
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Facility or technical operations experience.
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Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by screening schedules.
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Comfort with POS systems, ticketing software, and basic office technology.
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Working knowledge of cinema equipment, including DCP projection and basic audio/lighting controls.
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Passion for independent, foreign, repertory, or art house cinema.
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience in an art house cinema, film festival, performing arts venue, or cultural nonprofit.
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Experience with 35mm and/or 70mm film projection is a plus, particularly as film projection may be added in the future.
Key Traits for Success
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Calm, solutions-oriented leadership style.
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Deep respect for film culture and community engagement.
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Ability to balance artistic mission with operational and financial realities.
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Hands-on, adaptable, and detail-oriented.
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Strong judgment, discretion, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a public-facing environment.
Work Environment
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Active theatre environment with frequent public interaction.
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Combination of administrative work and on-floor supervision.
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Evening, weekend, and holiday availability required.
Interested applicants can apply online:
