Head of Operations (6-Month Parental Leave Cover)

at; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food business in Melbourne is seeking a Head of Operations for a 6-month parental leave cover. This role involves end-to-end leadership overseeing operations, team management, and strategic financial decisions. Candidates should have experience in a senior role and demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills.

Benefits

Competitive salary package based on experience

Potential for extension or long-term opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Head of Operations or senior leadership role.
• Strong financial acumen in budgeting and reporting.
• Ability to lead and foster a high-performance culture.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and report to the Director.
• Lead and support department heads across multiple areas.
• Monitor financial targets with the accounts team.

Skills

Leadership

Financial Acumen

Communication

Job description

Head of Operations (6-Month Parental Leave Cover)

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6-Month Contract Opportunity – Head of Operations (Parental Leave Cover)

Contract: Full-time, Fixed Term (6 months)

Start: July 2025

Extension Possible: Yes

Are you an experienced operations leader ready to roll up your sleeves and keep the wheels turning in a fast-paced, food-loving business? Cannoleria (La Festa Group) is looking for a confident and capable Head of Operations to step into this key leadership role while our current Head of Ops is on parental leave.

About Us

At La Festa Group, we’re all about quality, passion, and connection — through food and culture. From our hand-piped cannoli to our dynamic event activations and retail presence, we take pride in creating memorable experiences. Our operations span production, retail, events, and wholesale — and we’re growing.

About the Role

This is a true end-to-end leadership role. You’ll report directly to the Director and oversee daily operations across multiple departments. From team leadership and business planning to financial oversight and strategic decision-making, you’ll help steer the business through this important chapter.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and support department heads, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture

Working with the accounts team, monitor and drive key financial targets, reporting directly to the Director

Support cross-functional collaboration between kitchen, events, stores, marketing and admin

Identify improvements and implement changes to boost performance and efficiency

Ensure compliance with internal policies and industry regulations

Report on key metrics and performance indicators to stakeholders

About You

• Proven experience in a Head of Operations, General Manager or senior leadership role

• Strong financial acumen – budgeting, forecasting, and reporting

• A natural leader with excellent communication and relationship-building skills

• Hands-on, calm under pressure, and able to adapt to a dynamic environment

• Hospitality, events, or food production experience is highly regarded

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a proud, people-first food business with strong community roots

• Work closely with a supportive Director and a passionate team

• Competitive salary package based on experience

• Potential for extension or long-term opportunities for the right person

We’re open to candidates from a range of industries who are operationally savvy, commercially minded, and team-oriented.

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Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia? How many years' experience do you have as a Head of Operations? How many years of people management experience do you have? What's your expected annual base salary?

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