Summary

The Students’ Association of Mount Royal University (SAMRU) is seeking a customer focussed, business-minded Operations Manager to help with business development and oversee the day-to-day operations of the food court, tenancies, and the facilities of Wyckham House — the student centre and heart of student life at Mount Royal University.

Description

Job Opportunity: Operations Manager

Students’ Association of Mount Royal University (SAMRU)
 Full-Time • 1 Year Contract • Wyckham House Student Centre
The Students’ Association of Mount Royal University (SAMRU) is seeking a customer focussed, business-minded Operations Manager to help with business development and oversee the day-to-day operations of the food court, tenancies, and the facilities of Wyckham House — the student centre and heart of student life at Mount Royal University.
This role is ideal for a strategic, organized, and collaborative leader who thrives in a dynamic environment and is motivated by creating opportunities and positive experiences for students and campus guests.

About the Role

Reporting to the Director, Business & Building Services, the Operations Manager manages SAMRU’s commercial tenancies, oversees building and facilities operations, ensures high-quality customer experiences, contributes to the development and execution of new business services, and supports financial performance across functional areas.
The Operations Manager supervises the Business Services Coordinator along with seasonal and part-time food court cleaning staff, fostering a culture of exceptional customer service, collaboration, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Business Services & Planning

  • Develop and implement systems to support existing services, including food court cleaning, Wyckham House tenant relations, and building operations.
  • Conduct research, evaluation, forecasting, and market analysis to improve services, gather customer feedback, and identify growth opportunities.
  • Recommend improvements to Wyckham House amenities and services within regulatory and organizational frameworks.
  • Provide strategic recommendations to create value for SAMRU members and lead in the development of new business opportunities and building enhancements.

Project Management

  • Work with the Director responsible for Building Services to plan and manage operational and business-related projects from conception to completion.
  • Determine project feasibility, establish timelines and budgets, and monitor progress.
  • Prepare project reports, maintain records, and ensure standards are met.

Team Leadership

  • Recruit, train, coach, and supervise departmental staff.
  • Manage staff performance, workload distribution, and training needs.
  • Maintain accurate timekeeping and personnel records for waged staff.

Customer Experience

  • Ensure a positive, safe, and well-maintained experience for all Wyckham House visitors.
  • Lead customer service initiatives, address concerns, and cultivate a strong customer service culture.
  • Maintain a hands-on understanding of operations by working in front-line environments as needed.

Financial Management

  • Assist in developing annual foot traffic targets, gross-profit plans, and strategies.
  • Analyze trends, monitor competition, and support promotional planning.
  • Prepare budgets, track expenditures, create financial reports, and ensure inventory controls are followed.

Facilities & Building Services

  • Oversee daily building operations, liaise with MRU departments to provide repairs and maintenance, and manage minor in-house maintenance through staff.
  • Recommend long-term initiatives to maintain safety, functionality, and aesthetics within Wyckham House.
  • Ensure compliance with SAMRU’s License of Occupation Agreement.

Commercial Contracts & Tenancy Management

  • Serve as primary liaison for tenants, ensuring compliance with agreements and addressing day-to-day needs.
  • Maintain records, track evaluations, and support improvements to commercial contracts and tenancy processes.

Health, Safety & Legal Compliance

  • Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, occupational health standards, and organizational policies.
  • Maintain a culture of safety for staff, volunteers, and members.

 

What You Bring

  • A post-secondary credential.
  • Experience in operations, management, business services, hospitality, or a related field.
  • Proven leadership and staff supervision abilities.
  • Experience managing projects, including planning, execution, and reporting.
  • Excellent customer service, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Financial knowledge, including budgeting, forecasting, and inventory control.
  • Ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on operational support.
  • Understanding of basic safety, regulatory, or compliance standards (asset).
  • Contract negotiation skills such as active listening, adaptability, value-creation, and problem solving.

 

Why Work at SAMRU?

  • Work in a vibrant, student-focused environment at the centre of campus life.
  • Join a values-driven organization committed to student success, equity, and community.
  • Competitive salary starting at $68,500 per year with comprehensive health and dental benefits.
  • 35-hour work week, flexible scheduling, and the accumulation and use of flex time.
  • 15 days vacation and additional paid days off in December.
  • For more information about our organization please visit samru.ca.

 

How to Apply

Submit your résumé and cover letter in PDF format to hr@samru.ca with the subject line Operations Manager Application.
Applications will be accepted until January 15, 2026 or until the position is filled.
No telephone inquiries please. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.