Store Manager New Washington, D.C. (Washington)

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: Washington, D.C. Reports to: Regional Manager

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

Available to work 40 hours per week across five shifts, including weekdays and weekends (no overnights)

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

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including $0 in-network mental health visits, commuter benefits and 401k

HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account)

Up to $100 of Monthly Lifestyle Spending Account for wellness-related expenses

Additional mental health resources such as Talkspace and Ginger

Gender affirmation support services, EAP sessions and work/life resources

Ample paid time off including three months of paid family leave for all full-time retail employees (biological, adoptive, and foster parents are all eligible) to support a healthy work/life balance

2 weeks paid sabbatical after four years of full-time service

Ongoing learning & development, opportunities for upward mobility, performance reviews, and consistent coaching to help you grow professionally

Discounts on piercings and products (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 extended life insurance

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.

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