Spark Car Wash · 6 hours ago
Director of Operations
Summit, NJ
Full-time
Onsite
Director/Executive
$150K/yr - $180K/yr
15+ years expSpark Car Wash is a high growth, institutionally backed express exterior car wash company serving the Northeast and headquartered in Summit, NJ. The Director of Operations will lead the Store Operations team, shaping the future of Spark's operating model and ensuring operational excellence across all sites while driving financial performance and supporting sustainable growth.
RetailService Industry
Responsibilities
Recruit, hire, and develop a world class team of District managers, General Managers and future leaders
Mentor and coach leaders through individualized development plans focused on long-term career progression
Foster a work environment that is challenging, supportive, and deeply rewarding—one where top performers thrive and team members feel valued
Setting the benchmark for industry-leading customer experience, informed by competitive analysis and multi-unit retail best practices
Designing and continuously improving systems, SOPs, and workflows that scale with organizational growth
Leading strategic initiatives that enhance performance, efficiency, and service quality
Accountable for building and enforcing a safety culture, risk mitigation practices, emergency response protocols, and loss prevention strategies
Collaborate on store-level forecasts, budgets, and performance targets
Manage store-level expenses, including payroll, chemicals, utilities, and maintenance—to deliver both quality and efficiency
Optimize labor management practices to maintain high service levels while controlling costs
Maintain strong communication channels between field teams and the corporate office to support alignment, transparency, and rapid problem-solving
Create a Leadership Development Program (LDP) that empowers team members at all levels to grow, advance, and reach their fullest potential
Partnering closely with the Product team to ensure our tunnel equipment and site amenities meet the highest standards of reliability, safety, and innovation
Partner with the Marketing team to drive membership growth and execute promotional programs that fuel revenue
Partner with the Facilities Management and Construction Teams to coordinate work on existing stores and future openings
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree
15+ years of progressive experience in operations, including at least 5 years in senior leadership roles (VP, Director, or equivalent) within a multi-unit, consumer-facing, or growth-oriented business
A strong track record of delivering operational excellence, driving financial performance, and scaling teams and systems
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills; able to influence, inspire, and collaborate across functions and levels
Demonstrated success driving cultural change while improving processes, performance, and efficiency
Excellent leadership skills with the ability to recruit, develop, and retain high-performing teams
Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to hold teams accountable to high standards of execution
Strong time-management skills and the ability to prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment
Ability to conceptualize, think strategically, and translate ideas into actionable plans
Creative, resourceful thinker who seeks quality solutions and continuous improvement opportunities
Proven ability to manage ambiguity, adapt quickly to evolving business needs, and remain proactive in addressing challenges
Advanced proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook)
Comfort with operational systems, reporting tools, and technology-driven processes
Willingness to travel throughout NJ, NY, and PA, including approximately 25% overnight travel
Valid driver's license; ability to meet company MVR requirements
Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical task as required
Ability to bend, kneel, squat, and climb stairs or ladders
Ability to walk and stand for long periods of time
Benefits
Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision
401(k) with company match
Four weeks paid vacation
Company fleet vehicle (authorized for commuting)
Company laptop and branded gear
Free car washes at all Spark locations
Company
Spark Car Wash
Spark Car Wash is a modern car wash chain.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
$30MKey Investors
GoPoint Ventures
2023-11-13Series B· $30M
Leadership Team
Kyle Van Decker
CEO
Recent News
gopointventures.com
2025-03-26
2024-04-08
Company data provided by crunchbase