Australian Venue Co is seeking an experienced Retail Area Manager - Liquor to lead and optimise performance across nine retail liquor stores plus corporate liquor operations in the Airlie Beach region.
This is a senior, hands-on leadership role responsible for driving commercial outcomes, developing high-performing Store Managers, and building a strong, values-led culture across a diverse and high-volume retail patch.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the GM of Retail Liquor, you'll provide day-to-day leadership across retail operations, purchasing, warehouse and corporate liquor sales. Your focus will be on revenue growth, cost control, stock efficiency, customer experience and leadership capability, while ensuring safety, compliance and operational excellence at every level.
This role suits a commercially minded retail leader who thrives in a multi-site environment and enjoys balancing strategy with on-the-ground execution.
Key Responsibilities
Lead, coach and develop Retail Store Managers and emerging leaders across the region
Drive sales performance, ROI, GP and purchasing efficiencies across all liquor operations
Own weekly, monthly and annual performance rhythms including KPIs, P&Ls, BRMs and business planning
Partner closely with Purchasing and Warehouse teams to optimise ranging, ordering, logistics and supply chain flow
Build and maintain a strong succession pipeline through proactive recruitment, onboarding and development
Champion customer experience, local market insight and tourism-driven trade opportunities
Lead safety, compliance and risk management across retail, warehouse and transport operations
Ensure compliance with liquor licensing, employment legislation and Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL)
Collaborate with central Marketing to execute campaigns, promotions and seasonal activations
Drive innovation, continuous improvement and operational best practice across the patch
About You
Proven experience leading multi-site retail or liquor operations
Strong commercial acumen with demonstrated success improving sales, margin and cost performance
Confident people leader with the ability to coach, performance manage and develop senior managers
Experience working with purchasing, warehousing or logistics functions highly regarded
Strong understanding of safety, compliance and regulatory frameworks (liquor, employment, HVNL advantageous)
Hands-on, accountable and comfortable operating in a fast-paced, seasonal tourism environment
Values-driven leader who builds trust, engagement and high-performance cultures
Why Join AVC?
Senior leadership role with genuine autonomy and influence
Diverse portfolio across retail, corporate liquor and warehouse operations
Career development opportunities within one of Australia's largest hospitality groups
Supportive leadership structure with strong central support functions
If you're ready to take ownership of a high-impact retail liquor portfolio in a dynamic coastal market, we'd love to hear from you.
Desired Skills and Experience
Leading teams, mult-site, Retail liquor, management, business acumen, purchasing, revenue growth