Director of Operations – New Practice Integration

Guardian Dentistry Partners is entering a defining phase of growth as our network continues to expand through new partnerships and acquisitions. With this momentum comes the need for focused leadership during the most critical stage of a practice’s journey with Guardian: the first year post-acquisition.

This role was intentionally created to own the first-year integration experience for newly acquired practices across the organization. Rather than dispersing this responsibility across existing teams, Guardian is investing in a senior operations leader whose sole focus is ensuring new practices are supported, aligned, and positioned for sustainable success from the start.

At Guardian Dentistry Partners, we support a growing network of 169+ dental practices across 11.5 states (shout out D.C!). As one of the Fastest Growing Dental Groups (No. 384 on the 2024 Inc. 5000), we are committed to building strong, lasting partnerships that help dental practices thrive—while preserving the individuality that makes each practice unique.

As the Director of Operations, New Practice Integration, this leader will play a key role in translating growth strategy into consistent execution—supporting field leadership, guiding teams through change, and building the operational foundation that enables long-term performance. This role oversees two Regional Managers and provides hands-on leadership across 40+ practices, ensuring alignment with Guardian’s operating model while maintaining stability, clarity, and momentum during periods of transition.

This is a highly visible, execution-driven leadership role that partners closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams. Travel is required and non-negotiable, as in-person support is essential to successful integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the operational integration of newly acquired dental practices, ensuring a smooth, consistent transition into Guardian’s systems, processes, and culture
• Own the first-year performance, stabilization, and operational readiness of 40+ practices post-acquisition
• Directly manage and develop two Regional Managers, driving accountability, consistency, and execution across integration efforts
• Partner with executive leadership to support Guardian’s acquisition strategy and long-term growth initiatives
• Implement Guardian’s operating model across new practices, including:
  • Financial controls and reporting cadence
  • Staffing models, recruiting alignment, and leadership structure
  • Procurement, inventory management, and vendor relationships
  • Hygiene protocols, patient experience standards, and operational workflows
• Analyze financial and operational performance metrics to identify risks, opportunities, and corrective actions during integration
• Lead change management efforts by supporting practice leaders and teams through transition with clear communication and structure
• Collaborate with centralized teams (HR, Finance, Recruiting, IT, Marketing, Clinical Support) to ensure seamless alignment and execution
• Establish benchmarks, timelines, and success indicators to ensure practices are positioned for long-term success beyond year one

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or equivalent experience preferred
• 7+ years of senior operational leadership experience within a multi-unit, high-growth healthcare, dental services, or adjacent services organization
• Demonstrated success leading integrations, acquisitions, or large-scale operational transformations
• Proven people leader with experience managing regional or multi-site leaders
• Strong financial acumen with the ability to interpret operational and performance data to drive decisions
• Excellent communication, influence, and relationship-building skills
• Highly organized, analytical, and comfortable operating in fast-paced, evolving environments
• Willingness to travel extensively (75%) to support integration efforts

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $145,000 - $165,000
• Annual Bonus: Up to 20% based on individual performance and company goals
• Equity Participation: Eligibility for profit-sharing program following one year of service
• 401(k): Company-matched retirement plan
• Benefits: Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage