Fractional COO | Helped Scale 7-Figure Service Businesses - Contract to Hire

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)

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