General Manager

Company Description KidsUnited is an early development soccer program serving children ages 1.5 to 9 years old, with a focus on building healthy, active, and self-confident individuals. The program uses age-appropriate soccer activities to support physical, social, and emotional growth both on and off the field. KidsUnited partners with families who are seeking positive outlets to help children overcome personal challenges and build resilience. The environment emphasizes fun, encouragement, and skill development, helping young players grow into the best version of themselves in sports and life.

KIDSUNITED Kentwood: General Manager

OVERVIEW

KidsUnited is opening a new location in Kentwood and is seeking a General Manager to lead pre-sale efforts, drive membership growth, and build a high-performing team from the ground up.

This is a hands-on leadership role in a performance-driven environment, requiring the ability to balance sales, team leadership, and day-to-day operations.

You’ll work closely with the Owner and Franchisor to execute the KidsUnited model, grow the business, and lead a team that delivers a fun, high-energy experience for every child and family.

We’re looking for someone with prior management experience, a background in sales or membership-based businesses, and a natural ability to engage with parents and build relationships. A passion for working with children is essential; experience in athletics, coaching, or youth programs is a plus. This full-time role requires flexibility, including evenings and weekends.

DETAILS

Estimated hours of 40-50 hours a week, mostly during weekday afternoons and weekend days.

Presale effort: this position will lead the presale effort for a period of 6-10 weeks, beginning in/around late September to October pending construction commencing on site.

Upon completion of presale, role will transition to general manager, with additional focus on managing day-to-day operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Drive Growth & Business Performance

• Own membership sales performance, including lead follow-up, conversion, retention, and achieving monthly growth targets
• Monitor key metrics (leads, conversion, retention, revenue) and adjust strategies to improve performance
• Build local partnerships and execute community marketing initiatives to drive awareness and lead generation
• Create a welcoming, family-oriented environment that supports long-term member retention

Lead & Develop a KidsUnited Team

• Recruit, train, and develop a high-energy team of coaches and sales-focused staff
• Set clear performance expectations and hold team members accountable
• Provide ongoing coaching and feedback to improve both sales performance and class experience
• Foster a high-energy, team-oriented culture where staff are engaged, accountable, and focused on delivering a great experience
• Ensure classes are delivered with consistency, structure, and enthusiasm
• Coach 5–8 classes per week. Classes typically are held from 3:30p-8:30p on weekdays and 8a-3p on weekends.

Deliver an Exceptional Customer Experience

• Be the face of the club—build relationships with families and create a welcoming, high-energy environment
• Ensure every class meets high standards for energy, engagement, and organization
• Address parent feedback and resolve issues quickly and professionally
• Own the customer journey from trial through long-term membership to drive conversion and retention
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized facility

Operational Excellence & Execution

• Manage day-to-day club operations to ensure a smooth, organized, and efficient environment
• Create and manage staff schedules to support class coverage and business needs
• Execute payroll processes accurately and on time
• Ensure compliance with KidsUnited standards, systems, and operating procedures

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

What We’re Looking For

• You have experience in sales, membership-based businesses, or customer acquisition—and are comfortable driving revenue and closing opportunities. Experience in boutique physical fitness is a big plus!
• You know how to lead and develop a team, set clear expectations, and hold people accountable
• You are highly organized and able to prioritize, execute, and solve problems quickly
• You’re outgoing, bring positive energy, and are confident engaging with parents and building relationships in the community
• You take pride in delivering a high-quality experience, have a genuine passion for working with children, and pay attention to the details that shape how families feel about the program
• You thrive in a performance-driven, goal-oriented environment and enjoy being measured on results

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in soccer, sports, or group-based youth programs
• Coaching, teaching, or early childhood experience

Why This Role is Different

This is an opportunity to build and grow a new KidsUnited location in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area. You’ll be responsible for driving membership growth, developing a team, and creating an experience families love. If you’re motivated by results and want to take ownership of a business within a growing brand, this is a unique opportunity to make a real impact.