Swanson Studio is an award-winning full-service photo and video production studio in Portland, Oregon. We create digital still and motion imagery that inspire hearts and minds, with a focus on capturing beautiful moments in life, sport, and culture. Our work is driven by collaboration and the belief that we can achieve greater results together than alone.
The Managing Director (MD) will play a pivotal role as a champion and unifying force for our team. By focusing on business management and operations, innovation and transformation, the MD will ensure a balance between people, culture, and financial performance.
This role represents the studio at the highest level. The Managing Director will have a comprehensive understanding of studio operations, financial performance, business planning and personnel dynamics. Working closely with the studio Founder, the MD plays a crucial role in supporting the studio's strategic direction and keys to success: Create great art. Build strong relationships. Practice meticulous process. The MD will ensure we are collectively meeting these goals.
Responsibilities Include
Leadership:
Lead, nurture, and empower a high-performing team; serving as the studio's conductor fostering a collaborative and creative culture while balancing the business goals and professionalism
Align with and support the Founder's vision and strategy for Swanson Studio
Ensure client relationships and project opportunities are pursued, developed, and implemented with a focus on balancing creative execution and client budget
Oversee staffing to align the team with the studios needs
Drive innovation so that Swanson Studio is incorporating leading-edge technology in our practice
Operations:
Work closely with the Founder and finance team to develop business models, yearly budgets, and revenue targets ensuring the studio meets its financial and business goals
Manage and optimize the studios systems, tools and equipment for effectiveness and efficiencies continuing to innovate our approach
Lead contracts, agreements, litigation & legal compliance meeting industry legal requirements
Partner with Founder and Operations Manager on staffing models, performance reviews and ensure that personnel challenges are both recognized and effectively managed
Finance:
Manage financial performance, including annual budgeting, monthly profitability, and ongoing forecasting overseeing month-end financial reconciliation; maintain revenue forecasting, sales projections, revenue recognition, and invoicing
Maintain a data-driven approach to decision-making, balancing the emotional aspects of image production with concrete financial analysis
Work with Founder to plan for upcoming financial events and capital needs;
Culture & Values:
Embody and exemplify the studio's values and culture
Uphold and enhance the studio's standing and credibility within the industry
Maintain studio HR policies and standards
Skills and Requirements
10+ years of successful senior-level leadership in a creative services environment
Deep understanding of the photography and video production market and its connection to sales and marketing across brands and industries that Swanson represents
Proven business and financial acumen with the ability to manage complexity with confidence
Skilled in operational systems, workflow, photography production, and allocating talent and contractor resources
Experienced in designing and implementing operational and financial infrastructures
Operate at a senior strategic level with executive-level clients in large organizations
Ability to mentor and manage a team, supporting growth, employee challenges and satisfaction
Proven experience and passion for the market categories that Swanson Studio works in
Artfully stays informed of overall studio activity, staff, culture, and project engagements
Fearlessly optimistic and innovative yet highly pragmatic and action-oriented
This role requires working on-site daily at the NW Portland studio
What We Offer
Competitive salary based on depth and breadth of experience plus full medical, dental, and vision benefits package, short-term disability, and 401k matching
Generous PTO package, sick days and paid holidays
Continuing education tuition reimbursement or professional development opportunities
Opportunity for growth and profit sharing based on performance objectives
How to Apply
Please send email with resume and cover letter to: apply@swansonstudio.us
Please title email "First Name_Last Name_Managing Director." Thank you for your interest!
About Swanson Studio
Swanson Studio is an award-winning full-service photo and video production studio in Portland, Oregon. The studio creates digital still and motion imagery that inspire hearts and minds, with a focus on capturing beautiful moments in life, sport, and culture. Swanson Studio partners with brands like Nike, Microsoft, and The North Face, crafting innovative photo and video imagery in their Northwest Portland studio and on-location around the world.