Fractional COO / Chief Operating Officer – Operations, Profit, and Systems
We are not looking for a consultant—we are looking for an operator who can take ownership of the business, improve profitability, and build systems that allow the company to run without daily founder involvement.
The goal of this role is to transition MIY Candle Co. & Creative Studios into a system-driven, scalable business with reduced owner dependency and strong operational control.
MIY Candle Co. & Creative Studios is a fast-growing retail and experience-based business located in Catonsville, MD. We offer hands-on workshops (candle making, perfume/cologne, body care) alongside retail products.
We are seeking a high-level operator to take ownership of the business operations, improve profitability, and build systems that allow the company to run without direct founder involvement.
Mission of This Role
The primary mission of this role is to build a system-driven, scalable business that reduces owner dependency while increasing profitability and operational efficiency.
• What You Will Own
• Operations & Systems
Build and implement SOPs across all areas (workshops, retail, inventory, customer experience)
Create repeatable systems so the business runs without constant owner input
Improve scheduling, staffing, and operational efficiency
Financial Performance & Profitability
Identify inefficiencies and profit leaks
Build and manage KPI dashboards (revenue, margins, labor, utilization, etc.)
Work alongside bookkeeping/accounting to ensure accurate financial visibility
Team & Accountability
Hire, structure, and manage staff
Implement training and onboarding systems
Establish clear roles, expectations, and accountability metrics
Growth & Scaling
Optimize pricing, capacity, and workshop utilization
Develop new revenue streams (private events, corporate, mobile experiences)
Prepare the business for multi-location expansion
Systems Oversight (CRM, POS, Automation)
Oversee systems including Shopify, booking platforms, and CRM
Ensure systems are properly implemented and driving decisions
Work alongside technical resources to ensure execution and optimization
Non-Negotiable Requirements
Proven experience operating or scaling a business ($250K+ revenue minimum)
Hands-on experience improving profitability (not just advising)
Experience building SOPs and operational systems
Strong understanding of financial reporting and KPIs
Experience managing teams and accountability structures
This Role Is NOT For
Consultants who only provide recommendations without execution
Candidates without real operational or leadership experience
Individuals who cannot demonstrate measurable results
What Success Looks Like (First 90 Days)
SOPs implemented across key business functions
KPI dashboard established and reviewed weekly
Staffing structure stabilized with clear accountability
At least one major operational or profitability improvement identified and implemented
Reduced founder involvement in daily operations
Engagement
Fractional (10–25 hours/week) to start
Opportunity to grow into long-term leadership role based on performance
To Apply:
Only candidates with proven, measurable results will be considered.
Please include:
A brief summary of a business you helped scale or fix
The specific actions you took
The measurable results you achieved
(Optional but preferred: a short Loom/video explaining how you would approach improving this business in the first 30 days)
• To confirm you’ve read this fully, start your response with the word “Operator.