Scaling a business is exciting, but let’s be real, it also comes with a lot of moving pieces. Suddenly, you’re juggling team management, project execution, backend systems, and a never-ending to-do list. That’s where an Online Business Manager (OBM) comes in.

Many business owners think hiring help means bringing in a virtual assistant (VA) or social media manager. But an OBM is different.

While VAs focus on task execution, OBMs handle the big-picture strategy, systems, and team management that keep your business running smoothly, even when you’re not in the weeds.

So What Exactly Does an OBM Do?

An OBM steps in to take operations off your plate, giving you back time to focus on growth, clients, and big-picture vision. Here’s how:

1. Project & Launch Management

Ever launched a product, service, or course and felt like everything was all over the place? OBMs handle the backend execution of product launches, social media campaigns, website overhauls, and more.

• Creates a detailed project plan and timeline
• Assigns and coordinates tasks across teams
• Ensures deadlines are met without overwhelm
• Troubleshoots issues before they escalate

Think of an OBM as the person making sure your launch doesn’t turn into a last-minute scramble.

2. Team Management & Growth

If you have a team (or are building one), managing people can quickly eat up your time. OBMs help with hiring, onboarding, and leading teams so that you’re not stuck micromanaging.

• Writes clear job descriptions to attract the right talent
• Screens and interviews applicants (so you don’t have to)
• Onboards new hires with systems & SOPs
• Ensures team members are accountable and productive

With an OBM, your team stays efficient, engaged, and aligned with your business goals.

3. Systems, Automations & Workflow Optimization

Messy workflows and outdated processes can slow down a growing business. OBMs audit, improve, and automate your backend systems to make everything run like clockwork.

• Sets up automation for admin tasks (email responses, lead follow-ups, etc.)
• Creates dashboards for tracking key business metrics
• Documents processes into SOPs for efficiency
• Streamlines workflows to eliminate unnecessary steps

When your systems are optimized, your business runs without you needing to be in every single process.

What’s the ROI of Hiring an OBM?

It’s easy to look at OBM services as an expense—but in reality, it’s an investment with serious ROI.

Here’s why:

• You stop being the bottleneck. Your business runs smoothly, even when you’re not glued to your laptop.
• You get back precious hours. More time to focus on revenue-generating activities instead of admin work.
• Your team becomes more productive. No more confusion, miscommunication, or dropped tasks.
• Your systems work for you, not against you. Automation and optimization lead to efficiency and growth.
• You scale faster. With strategic management in place, you’re set up for long-term, sustainable success.

Is It Time to Hire an OBM?

If you’re constantly overwhelmed, drowning in backend work, or struggling to scale because everything still relies on you, it might be time to bring in an OBM.

Want to see how this could work for your business? Grab my free guide, The Thriving Business Playbook, where I break down exactly what you can streamline, automate, and delegate, starting today.

And if you’re ready to finally take operations off your plate, let’s chat. 🚀