General Manager - Rock Climbing Gym (Startup)

Job Description

About the job

General Manager – Rock Climbing Gym (Startup)

Location: Greater Boston, MA

Compensation: $55,000 – $70,000 Base + 20% Equity

Build Something from the Ground Up

About the Role: This is not a typical General Manager role

We are launching a new rock climbing gym in the Greater Boston area and are seeking a founding General Manager to lead the build, opening, and long-term success of the business. Backed by committed ownership and investment, this is a rare opportunity to take a concept from vision to reality—and have meaningful equity in the outcome. If you’re looking for a role where you simply maintain operations, this is not it. If you’re energized by building, leading, and owning something from day one, keep reading.

About The Opportunity

As General Manager, you will serve as the operational and cultural leader of the gym. You will work directly with ownership to bring the facility to life—overseeing pre-opening planning, hiring, systems development, and ultimately delivering an exceptional customer experience once doors open. You will have the autonomy to build your team, shape the member experience, and establish the standards that define the brand. Your success will be measured not just by operations—but by community, culture, and growth.

What You’ll Own

Pre-Opening Leadership

- Partner with ownership on launch strategy, timelines, and execution

- Assist with facility setup, vendor coordination, and operational readiness

- Build foundational systems for membership, staffing, and day-to-day operations

Team Building & Leadership

- Recruit, hire, and develop a high-performing staff across front desk, coaching, and operations

- Establish a culture of professionalism, safety, and community

- Lead by example in energy, accountability, and presence

Operations & Member Experience

- Oversee all daily operations of the gym

- Ensure a safe, clean, and engaging climbing environment

- Deliver an exceptional and consistent customer experience

Business Performance

- Drive membership growth, retention, and community engagement

- Manage budgets, expenses, and operational efficiency

- Execute local marketing initiatives and partnerships

Community & Brand Building

- Serve as the face of the gym in the local climbing community

- Build relationships with members, groups, and local organizations

- Create an environment that climbers want to be part of—not just visit

What We’re Looking For

Builder’s Mindset

- You thrive in startup environments and are comfortable with ambiguity

- You take ownership, solve problems, and don’t wait to be told what to do

Leadership & Operational Experience

- 3–7+ years of management or operational leadership experience

- Experience running or supporting a facility, gym, or service-based business strongly preferred

Climbing Industry Experience (Strongly Preferred)

- Background in rock climbing (indoor or outdoor)

- Experience working in or managing a climbing gym is highly valued

Entrepreneurial Drive

- You think like an owner, not an employee

- You are motivated by building something long-term, not just collecting a paycheck

People & Culture Leadership

- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead teams

- Passion for creating a welcoming, high-energy, community-driven environment

Execution & Accountability

- Comfortable balancing strategy with hands-on execution

- Willing to do whatever it takes in the early stages to get the business off the ground

Why This Role Stands Out

- 20% Equity Stake – Real ownership in what you help build

- Ground-Floor Opportunity – Shape the business, team, and culture from day one

- Backed by Investment – Not an idea—this is moving forward

- Autonomy & Influence – You will have a seat at the table, not just a title

- Community Impact – Build something meaningful in a passionate, growing space

Who This Is Perfect For

- A current Assistant GM or Manager ready to step into full ownership

- A climbing gym leader who wants more upside and autonomy

- An operator who wants to build—not just maintain

- Someone who sees this as a career-defining opportunity, not just a job

Apply Today

• If you’re ready to take ownership of something meaningful and build a business from the ground up, we want to hear from you.