Studs is a category-defining ear piercing and earring brand named one of “the 10 most innovative companies in retail for 2023” by Fast Company. Studs connects ear piercing with aftercare and earring shopping to create an end-to-end Earscaping® experience. We offer a better retail and digital experience that prioritizes safety and expertise in a cool, fun and welcoming environment, along with a wide earring assortment—all at an accessible price point.

*Please Note: The official title for this role will be Studio Manager*

Location: Chicago, IL | Reports to: Regional Manager | Full Time

Salary Range:

$65,000 - $75,000

The Studio Manager oversees all aspects of the Studio, leading a high-performing team and ensuring a best-in-class experience for every Studs customer. You’ll manage both the retail and piercing operations of the Studio, driving revenue growth, operational excellence, and a strong team culture.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who is passionate about delivering results through people — setting clear expectations, coaching performance, and cultivating an environment where customers and team members alike thrive. You’ll be responsible for all aspects of studio performance, from customer experience and compliance to scheduling and staffing, and you’ll be the primary point of accountability for the Studio’s success.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Excellence & Revenue

• Owns the Studio’s overall performance, driving revenue growth and achieving sales plans
• Reviews and analyzes business reporting to identify opportunities and adjust strategies
• Delegates and oversees divisions of responsibility within the management team; follows up consistently to ensure execution
• Owns scheduling within labor allocations and ensures payroll accuracy through regular audits
• Maintains high operational standards, ensuring compliance with piercing procedures, health and safety protocols, and inventory control practices
• Partners with Piercing Leadership to uphold technical standards, training, and best practices for Piercers in the Studio

Customer Experience

• Welcomes and educates customers on the unique Studs experience, delivering exceptional service every time
• Leads by example in service recovery best practices and ensures feedback loops are built into daily operations
• Monitors Studio reviews and customer feedback, identifying and escalating trends to drive continuous improvement

Leadership & Team Development

• Builds, develops, and leads a service-driven team including an Assistant Studio Manager, Studio Supervisors, Sales Associates, and Piercers, partnering closely with Piercing Leadership to uphold technical standards and best practices
• Coaches and provides ongoing feedback to team members, driving professional growth and accountability
• Creates a strong sense of belonging, collaboration, and trust across the Studio
• Navigates employee relations thoughtfully and in partnership with cross-functional teams
• Leads change management initiatives and helps the team adapt effectively to evolving priorities

Requirements:

• 2+ years of management experience (e.g., Store Manager, General Manager, Studio Manager) in a customer-facing environment; experience with jewelry, piercing, or retail services a plus
• Proven success leading a team of 7+ employees, including specialized skill roles
• Must work on-site five days per week at minimum (40 hours) and maintain open availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays (no overnights)
• Weekend availability (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) is required, excluding approved PTO
• Scheduled days off typically fall on Wednesdays and Thursdays but may vary based on business needs
• Schedules may vary and full-time roles are expected to prioritize Studs as the primary employment commitment
• Comfortable standing for extended periods (up to 8+ hours) and able to lift/move at least 20 lbs
• Able to handle chemicals safely and follow all relevant health and safety protocols
• Strong operational and financial acumen with a track record of achieving business goals
• Brings a positive attitude, ownership mindset, and creative problem-solving approach
• Highly organized, scrappy when needed, and able to navigate dynamic change using available tools and resources

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (including $0 in-network mental health visits)
• Access to Mental Health and Work/Life Resources including Online Therapy, Gender Affirmation Support Services, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Health and Commuter Tax-Advantaged Accounts
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Paid Time Off and Paid Safe & Sick Leave Accruals
• Paid Parental Leave
• Paid Sabbatical After 4 Years of Service
• Exclusive Employee Discounts on Piercings and Jewelry (we’ve got your friends and family covered too!)
• Access to PerkSpot and additional benefits such as pet insurance, discounted tickets, personal finance coaching, healthy rewards, and more!

Studs is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a work environment that fosters diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, age, creed, sex, religion, national origin, disability (physical or mental), marital status, citizenship, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, or any other legally protected status. Studs considers qualified applicants with criminal histories. We comply with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which we operate. If you require an accommodation for the application process, please fill out this form.

Massachusetts Applicants: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Click here for the Studs Privacy Notice for California Applicants.