Built by people who have opened the doors.

Next Level Ops helps performing arts and public assembly venues plan, launch, and operate with confidence. We work with owners, operators, and project teams before opening, during launch, and after the first season begins, when real-world decisions shape long-term reputation.

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Why Next Level Ops Exists

Thoughtful architecture and a compelling program set the stage. Optimal operational capability determines how well everything comes together to perform.

When operations enters the process late, the consequences surface quickly. Staffing models remain unresolved. Guest flow goes untested. Artist needs are underestimated. Systems are commissioned without clear operational ownership. By the time opening night arrives, leadership teams are managing decisions they did not have the opportunity to shape.

Next Level Ops was formed to close that gap.

Our Perspective

We come from the show.

We each began our careers working directly with productions and artists before moving into leadership roles. That foundation shapes how we approach venues today. Buildings, teams, and systems exist to support the event and the people experiencing it.

What We Believe

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Uses and users drive the building

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Guest experience and artist experience rise together

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Planning reduces pressure

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Knowledge builds confidence

Black and white outline of a diamond-shaped sign with a person sitting cross-legged, relaxed, with arms raised and hands in a circle, inside a box with curtains hanging on either side.

Opening night is the Starting Line

What We Notice That Others Miss

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Phil Jordan, CVE

He provides owners a single point of guidance across every functional area to ensure the transition from construction to live operations is seamless.

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Ken Harris

He works from the approach to the venue, including the flow inside, for both front of house and back of house. No detail is too small to support the geography of the building.

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Ross Richards

He first looks at how the building serves the program. Do the spaces support the work or complicate it? Do the guests and staff engage and have shared experiences?

How We Show up

  • We bring clarity to complex moments

  • We integrate with existing teams

  • We help turn intent into repeatable operations