What exactly does an Online Business Manager(OBM)/(Chief of Staff/Operations Manager) do?
An OBM helps you keep you on track and working in your zone of genius (vs getting caught up in all the day-to-day details) by strengthening the operational structure behind delivery.
That includes building a simple operating cadence (CEO rhythms), create detailed plans for all business objectives, managing the projects and the team; improving delegation and handovers, documenting key workflows (SOPs), and setting up lightweight automations so work moves forward with less daily dependence on you. My role is to get you out of managing into leading.
How is this different from hiring a virtual assistant (VA)?
A VA typically supports task execution. An OBM focuses on how work moves through the business: priorities, roles, handovers, systems, and accountability.
The role of a virtual assistant is to be a DOER in the business. What they do will vary from person to person depending on their area of expertise - admin, customer service, tech, marketing, etc.
The role of an OBM is to be a MANAGER in the business - to make sure the right things get done, in the right way, in the right time, and by the right person.
If you’re the bottleneck for approvals, follow-ups, and delivery, or you have support but everything still comes back to you, OBM support addresses the root problem, not just the overflow.
Who is this service best suited for?
This is best for founders who:
- Feel buried in busy work and decision fatigue are the bottleneck for approvals/client delivery/follow-ups
- Have a team/contractors but still carry too much operational load
- Want systems and automation but don’t have time to design or implement them
I’m overwhelmed - where do we start if I don’t even know what’s broken?
We start by stabilising the basics: what’s on your plate, what’s causing friction, and where you’re currently the bottleneck. Then we create a clear, simple plan for the next few weeks so you’re not trying to fix everything at once. The goal is to reduce day-to-day chaos first, then redesign and automate what’s repeatable.
What does ongoing support typically include?
Ongoing OBM support usually includes a mix of:
- Maintaining your operating cadence (CEO rhythms)
- Improving workflows and handovers
- Sprint-based execution to finish what’s started
- Documentation and repeatable systems
- Lightweight automation builds and refinements
In other words: less busy work for you, and more consistent execution across the business.
What outcomes can I expect?
Clients typically experience:
- More focus time for revenue, leadership, and strategy
- Work moving forward without you constant checking and chasing
- Easier delegation because the business is documented and repeatable
- Automation that supports the team and reduces manual admin
What access do you need, and how do you handle confidentiality?
We’ll agree access based on scope, and use secure sharing practices (role-based access, password managers where needed). Confidentiality is non-negotiable, and I treat your business information with care and professionalism.
How long does it take to feel a difference?
Most founders feel relief once the operating cadence and priorities are stabilised. From there, improvements compound as handovers, documentation, and automation are built. The exact timeline depends on complexity, team size, and how “messy” things are right now, but we always start with quick wins that reduce friction.
How do I get started?
Start by booking a call so we can look at what’s currently creating the most day-to-day drag (bottlenecks, handovers, manual admin, decision overload). From there, I’ll recommend the most sensible next step based on whether you need structure (rhythms), transferability (SOPs/handovers), automation (VIP Week), or ongoing operational leadership (retainer).