Director of New Center Opennings
MAX Fitness & Wellness·Remote(United States)
Software Development
WFA Digital Insight
As the demand for fitness and wellness services continues to grow, with the global market expected to reach
.1 trillion by 2027, the need for experienced professionals to lead new center openings has never been more pressing. With a 25% increase in remote job openings in the last year, professionals with strong digital skills and remote work experience are in high demand. MAX Fitness & Wellness, a leading player in the industry, is seeking a Director of New Center Openings to drive the success of their new locations. With the right combination of operational expertise, sales acumen, and leadership skills, candidates can thrive in this role. Before applying, candidates should be prepared to showcase their experience in multi-unit operations, franchise systems, and their ability to drive results in a fast-paced environment.
Job Description
About the Role
The Director of New Center Openings is a critical role at MAX Fitness & Wellness, responsible for launching new franchise locations and ensuring they open strong, operate to standard, and build momentum from day one. This role owns the full opening cycle, from pre-sale through the first 180 days of operation. The successful candidate will be a seasoned professional with a proven track record of driving results in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. They will be comfortable leading from the front, driving accountability, and working directly with franchisees in high-impact situations.The Director of New Center Openings will be part of a growth-focused organization that is building a system that produces consistent outcomes across every location. They will be working closely with the franchisees, providing them with the support and guidance they need to succeed. The role requires a high level of organization, attention to detail, and strong communication and problem-solving skills.
What You Will Do
- Lead all aspects of the opening process from pre-launch through post-opening stabilization
- Coordinate pre-sale activity to build early demand and drive opening readiness
- Oversee grand opening execution and ensure a strong Day 1 experience
- Ensure locations are operationally ready, fully staffed, and aligned with brand standards
- Prepare franchisees to operate their business with a clear understanding of expectations and performance drivers
- Hold franchisees accountable to timelines, activity standards, and opening benchmarks
- Address gaps quickly and drive corrective action
- Train franchisees and their teams on sales process, daily operations, and member experience
- Provide hands-on coaching to ensure execution is consistent and repeatable
- Reinforce standards and expectations through direct observation and feedback
- Support new locations through early-stage ramp and stabilization
- Monitor key performance indicators including lead flow, sales activity, attendance, and retention
- Identify performance issues early and implement solutions
- Ensure a smooth transition into ongoing operational support
- Continuously improve the new store opening process based on field results
- Identify patterns from high-performing openings and standardize best practices
- Maintain clear documentation and structure for future openings
- Provide regular updates on opening timelines, readiness, and performance
- Communicate risks, delays, and issues early
- Deliver clear, concise reporting to leadership on outcomes and opportunities
What We Are Looking For
- 5+ years of experience in multi-unit operations, preferably in a franchise system
- Proven experience opening new locations with strong operational and financial outcomes
- Strong understanding of sales processes, unit-level economics, and performance drivers
- Ability to coach, train, and hold business owners accountable
- High level of organization and attention to detail
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Ability to operate independently and manage multiple openings simultaneously
- Willingness to travel 60–75% of the time
- Experience in fitness, wellness, or service-based businesses
- Background working within a franchisor or as a multi-unit franchisee
- Familiarity with CRM systems, KPI tracking, and operational reporting tools
Nice to Have
- Experience with digital marketing and paid media
- Certification in a related field, such as business administration or marketing
- Experience with data analysis and performance metrics
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive compensation package
- Performance-based bonus tied to new store openings and early-stage ramp performance
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Remote work stipend and equipment allowance
- Opportunities for professional growth and development
How to Stand Out
- Be prepared to showcase your experience in multi-unit operations and franchise systems, and highlight your ability to drive results in a fast-paced environment.
- Develop a strong understanding of the fitness and wellness industry, including trends and best practices.
- Familiarize yourself with CRM systems, KPI tracking, and operational reporting tools to demonstrate your technical skills.
- Prepare examples of your ability to coach, train, and hold business owners accountable, and be ready to discuss your approach to leadership and management.
- Research the company culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how you align with them and can contribute to the organization's success.
- Consider creating a portfolio or case studies that demonstrate your experience and achievements in new center openings and franchise operations.
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