Head of Academy Strategy and Operations

Job Description

We are seeking a Special Projects - Head of Academy Strategy and Operations to lead the development and launch of a new martial arts academy. The role covers business planning, operational setup, programme development and coaching leadership. The successful candidate will oversee the academy from planning through launch, then lead daily operations, coach development and practical instruction.

Responsibilities

Lead the academy’s establishment and launch, with accountability for budgets, timelines, facility readiness, equipment procurement and operating procedures.

Develop and implement the business model, membership structure, pricing and financial targets with management.

Establish and maintain the curriculum, class structure, grading framework and technical standards across all programmes.

Design and deliver martial arts programmes for children, adults, beginners, advanced practitioners and competitive athletes, including group classes, private coaching and seminars.

Recruit, train, supervise and evaluate coaches and instructors, ensuring consistent teaching quality and professional standards.

Assess student progression and conduct grading and rank promotions within the scope of recognised qualifications and authority.

Establish and lead the competition programme, including athlete selection, training plans, preparation and event coaching.

Oversee daily operations, including class schedules, staffing, student records, equipment maintenance and facility management.

Build partnerships with schools, community organisations and corporate clients, and track membership growth, retention, class utilisation and financial performance.

Implement and enforce safety, safeguarding, discipline, cleanliness and member service standards, and address incidents and complaints.

Requirements

Proven experience establishing or expanding a martial arts academy, with direct responsibility for business planning, launch budgets, facility readiness, recruitment and programme rollout.

A verifiable record of managing academy financial performance and delivering membership growth and retention against agreed targets, including responsibility for pricing, revenue planning and cost control.

Demonstrated ability to assess market demand, develop commercially viable programmes and secure partnerships that generate enrolments, programme revenue or access to new customer groups.

Proven experience recruiting and leading instructors, developing curricula and overseeing academy operations. Must be able to set performance targets, review results and implement corrective action.

At least fifteen years of professional BJJ (Preferred) or Mixed Martial Arts coaching experience, including at least five years as a Head Coach, Head Professor, Academy Director or equivalent academy leadership role.

Minimally a IBJJF recognised BJJ third degree black belt, supported by valid certification and verifiable lineage, with demonstrated experience assessing student progression, conducting authorised grading and preparing athletes for recognised competitions.

Candidates should provide examples of academy development projects, measurable business results and coaching achievements. Supporting records and professional references may be requested.

Application

Please submit your CV, relevant coaching and rank certifications, and details of your academy leadership experience. Include examples of academy setup or expansion projects and competition programmes you have led.

By submitting your application, you consent to Antares Management Services Pte. Ltd. collecting, using and disclosing your personal data to prospective employers for recruitment and employment purposes.

We regret that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Cheam Jun Teck Gabriel (gabrielcheamjt@antares.com.sg)

Registration No.: R26162649

Antares Management Services Pte. Ltd.

EA Licence No.: 25C3031

UEN: 202527765K