Retail Operations Manager

About the role

We're looking for an experienced Retail Manager to lead performance across all our retail stores and help shape our next stage of growth. Working closely with the CEO, you'll strengthen our operations, develop our people and turn fresh ideas into meaningful improvements. This is a hands-on role with scope to make your mark.

Key responsibilities

• Take ownership of retail performance, using sales, labour, stock and waste data to identify opportunities and set clear priorities. Work with store managers on practical action plans, review progress and help each store achieve its potential.
• Coach and support store managers and retail staff through regular feedback, clear expectations and practical training. Help identify future leaders and create a workplace where people feel supported, take responsibility and are proud of their contribution.
• Develop and maintain training manuals, standard operating procedures and onboarding guides for all stores. Cover the essentials—from product knowledge, customer service and POS systems to opening and closing procedures, stock handling and food safety.
• Set and maintain standards for service, product presentation, cleanliness and food safety. Spend time in stores, listen to customers and staff, and address issues constructively.
• Review staffing, rosters and workflows to balance customer service with productivity. Find practical ways to reduce waste, simplify processes and resolve recurring problems.
• Coordinate with production and support teams to improve product availability, quality and the execution of promotions.
• Contribute to retail strategy, growth plans and new initiatives. Bring insights from our stores and the Australian F&B market into discussions about customer needs, product opportunities and ways to grow the business.

About you

• Experience in F&B retail management, ideally overseeing multiple stores.
• Demonstrated success in improving store performance and developing teams.
• A strong understanding of the Australian F&B market, local culture, customer preferences and service expectations.
• Commercial awareness and confidence working with sales targets, labour costs, stock and waste.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate people and have constructive conversations.
• Experience creating practical training materials and delivering effective staff training.
• An energetic, approachable and hands-on style—you enjoy being in stores and working alongside the team.
• Initiative and sound judgement, with the ability to prioritise, solve problems and turn ideas into action.
• A willingness to travel between stores and support teams during busy trading periods.

About us

At Van Dough, great food is only part of the experience. The people behind our counters, the care we put into our service and the way we work together are what keep customers coming back.