Operations Lead at Backroads

, , Croatia -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

25 Aug, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

27 May, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Operations Management, Logistics, Fleet Management, Warehouse Operations, Inventory Management, People Management, Budget Management, Vendor Management, Compliance, Asset Management, Staffing, Performance Management

Industry

Travel Arrangements

Description

Excited to grow your career? We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our associates grow professionally before recruiting new talent to our open positions. If you think the open position you see is right for you, we encourage you to apply! Our people make all the difference in our success. About the role: The Croatia Hub Operations Lead owns the end-to-end functioning of Backroads' new European hub in the Dicmo / Split area. This is a generalist operational leadership role responsible for warehouse operations, fleet management, unit load logistics, and field trip delivery across Croatia. The hub will be operational from March 2027, housing approximately 1,000 bikes, 60 vans, and 30 trailers, and will serve as the primary European Support Model (EUSM) node for the region. The role simultaneously oversees the Split operation area — managing guided trips across northern Croatia and, as capacity grows, all of Croatia. What you'll be doing: Hub & Warehouse Operations Help establish our new warehouse in Dicmo, Croatia Own day-to-day operations of the Croatia warehouse including inbound/outbound logistics, storage, and asset management. Maintain accurate inventory records for bikes, vans, trailers, and equipment across all unit loads and end of season maintenance. Oversee van fleet readiness: scheduling, maintenance coordination, pre-season preparation, and compliance checks. Manage EOSM processes from the Croatia hub, ensuring units are built, distributed, and returned to standard. Ensure the warehouse facility is maintained, safe, and compliant with local health and safety requirements. Fleet & Equipment Management Manage a fleet of approximately 60 vans and 30 trailers: scheduling, vendor relationships, damage reporting, and lifecycle tracking. Coordinate bike inventory of approximately 1,000 units: maintenance, allocation, seasonal inspection cycles, and condition reporting. Track and report fleet and equipment KPIs to European Operations management. Liaise with approved vendors (mechanical, bodywork, tyres, trailers) and manage local service relationships. People & Team Management Hire, onboard, and manage hub-based staff: warehouse team, mechanics and seasonal staff Manage seasonal staffing cycles in coordination with the European recruitment process. Set clear performance expectations, conduct reviews, and handle day-to-day people issues with appropriate escalation. Build a positive, accountable team culture consistent with Backroads values. Compliance & Administration Ensure compliance with Croatian vehicle regulations, import/export requirements, and health and safety obligations. Manage local vendor contracts and supplier relationships in line with Backroads procurement standards. Maintain accurate operational records and reports as required by European Operations leadership. Manage budget for Croatia Hub, variances and cost risks proactively. What you'll need to be successful: Proven experience in operations management, ideally in logistics, travel, outdoor, or fleet-intensive environments. Demonstrated ability to manage a physical warehouse or depot operation with inventory and asset accountability. Experience managing people: hiring, performance management, and seasonal team leadership. Fluent in Croatian is a big plus.Strong organizational skills: ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and escalate appropriately. Work environment: On-site, Croatia hub NOT REMOTE I can't imagine a better way to travel the world than under your own power and in the company of like-minded adventurers. Sure, Backroads provides superb accommodations and meals, amazing Trip Leaders and unforgettable local encounters. But whether you’re sticking with the group or breaking off on your own, all of our planning and support are ultimately aimed at one simple thing: giving you the flexibility you need to discover the world on your own terms. Tom Hale, Founder & President

Responsibilities

The Operations Lead manages the end-to-end functioning of the Croatia hub, overseeing warehouse operations, fleet management, and field trip delivery. This includes managing assets like bikes and vans, coordinating logistics, and leading a team of hub-based and seasonal staff.