Area Operations Manager

Add expected salary to your profile for insights Hospitality from the Heart — lived, not scripted. This is a true 2IC role for a frontline-first operations leader who believes hospitality isn’t a policy or a slogan, it’s how you show up, especially when things are busy, imperfect or hard. You bring the energy, lift sales through great coaching and confidence, hold the standards, and develop people, because you know genuine hospitality and strong performance go hand in hand. About Piccolina Pure, authentic Italian gelato since 2015. Welcome to Piccolina. At Piccolina, we’re focused on delivering the highest quality gelato from scratch, using traditional Italian techniques and only the best ingredients. This commitment to quality is what makes our artisanal gelato and gelato cakes some of the best in the world. Since 2015, we’ve been on an incredible journey. With 8 locations across Melbourne (and more on the way), we’re just getting started. With exciting growth plans for 2026 and beyond, Piccolina offers an opportunity to grow and learn with the guidance of a hands‑on leadership team. We care deeply about making what we do count. With an emphasis on quality, design and delivering hospitality from the heart, we’re obsessed with creating moments of joy for our customers. The Role As Area Operations Manager, you are a cultural carrier as much as an operator. You are trusted to act in the best interests of the customer, the team and the long‑term health of the business — even when no one is watching. You bring high ownership to the frontline. You don’t walk past problems. You are present when your team need you. And when trade is intense, you’re the calm, energising presence others rely on. This role requires regular nights, weekends and some public holidays. Frontline presence during peak trade is essential. How We Lead & What We Expect You bring positive energy by choice and understand how it lifts both teams and results You notice details others miss and take action without waiting to be asked You simplify complexity, keep momentum, and prioritise progress over perfection You coach in the moment and believe leadership is taught and developed You act with humility, accountability and care — especially when it’s busy You balance high standards with genuine warmth and humanity What You’ll Be Responsible For Frontline Leadership & Brand Standards Leading during peak trade and coaching in real time Driving in‑store sales through confident coaching and service behaviours Protecting brand standards — no detail overlooked Setting the tone through calm, positive leadership People & Performance Inspiring, motivating and developing young teams Building leadership depth as we scale Balancing business needs with team needs and managing expectations both ways Addressing performance issues early, clearly and respectfully Operations & Commercial Ownership Labour planning, rostering discipline and wage performance Understanding store performance and acting on opportunities Ensuring compliance across safety, food standards and awards Making smart decisions that serve both today and tomorrow Growth & Scale Supporting new store openings end-to-end Helping build the systems, rhythms and habits needed for scale Acting as a trusted decision partner to the GM of Operations Why Join Piccolina? A genuine 2IC role grounded in trust and ownership A fun, people-led culture that celebrates quality and care Clear growth pathways as we scale Leadership that believes leaders are teachers Competitive salary + benefits Before You Apply This role comes with clear expectations around how we lead, show up and operate day to day. You’ll thrive here if you lead with energy, integrity and care, step in when it matters most, and want to grow with the brand. If that doesn’t sound like you, this likely won’t be the right fit — and that’s okay. Full Australian working rights, a valid driver’s licence, and full‑time access to your own reliable vehicle are required for this role. Ready to Apply? Apply with your CV and a short cover letter addressing the following: In a few sentences, tell us what about Piccolina — and this role — excites you to want to work with us Briefly describe how you like to lead teams in a fast‑paced, in‑store environment Want to learn more? Follow us on Instagram @piccolinagelateria, visit our website, or drop into a Piccolina store. #J-18808-Ljbffr