Location: In-Store (Regional oversight incl. Airlie Beach & surrounds)
Reports To: National Sales Manager
Salary: $75,000 - $95,000 OTE
Job Type: Full-time
About Happy Travels:
Happy Travels is Australia's largest independent adventure travel agency, specialising in unforgettable and budget-friendly experiences across Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Bali, and beyond. Since 1998, we've connected travellers with authentic adventures, expert advice, and personalised itineraries, supported by a passionate team of travel lovers.
Role Overview:
The Area Manager provides operational leadership and strategic oversight to a portfolio of Happy Travels stores within a designated region. This senior role is responsible for ensuring store-level execution of business strategy, driving performance and productivity, and supporting Store Managers to build and maintain high-performing, customer-focused teams.
As a senior leader, you will contribute to regional planning, monitor KPIs, support workforce development, and uphold operational excellence across your region. Acting as a vital link between local stores and the National Sales Manager, this is a dynamic, hands-on role requiring a proactive, people-first leader with a strong commercial acumen.
Key Responsibilities:Multi-Site Leadership & Sales Strategy
* Monitor sales performance across assigned stores and analyse regional trends.
* Coach Store Managers on effective sales techniques and goal setting.
* Ensure stores consistently meet or exceed monthly KPIs.
* Identify growth opportunities and implement action plans.
* Drive exceptional customer service standards across all locations.
Store & Team Support
* Lead, mentor, and coach Store Managers and their teams.
* Support recruitment, onboarding, training, and succession planning.
* Ensure compliance with operational procedures and brand standards.
* Coordinate rostering support and resolve escalated staffing issues.
* Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and motivated team culture.
Operational & Financial Oversight
* Monitor store budgets, manage P&L performance, and reduce unnecessary costs.
* Ensure compliance with WHS, legal, and internal policy requirements.
* Oversee merchandising, stock control, and promotional campaigns.
* Provide regular, accurate reporting to the National Sales Manager.
Business Development & Engagement
* Represent Happy Travels at industry events and regional networking activities.
* Support local partnerships, brand presence, and community engagement.
* Act as a conduit between stores and Head Office, ensuring two-way communication.
Training & Development
* Lead or support regional/national training rollouts.
* Identify training needs and recommend solutions.
* Support Store Managers in coaching and performance management techniques.
Workplace Health & Safety (WHS)
* Promote and maintain the highest WHS standards.
* Conduct regular store audits and hazard checks.
* Ensure timely reporting and resolution of incidents and safety concerns.
General Duties
* Represent Happy Travels in a professional, positive, and inclusive manner.
* Attend and contribute to leadership meetings and training.
* Maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards at all times.
* Ensure all interactions are aligned with anti-discrimination, WHS, and equal opportunity legislation.
Qualifications & Experience:
Essential:
* Demonstrated success in a multi-site leadership role, ideally within retail, hospitality, or travel.
* Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop diverse teams across multiple locations.
* Strong understanding of sales metrics, financial performance, and operational efficiency.
* High-level written and verbal communication skills.
* Strong organisation and time management abilities.
* Self-motivated, proactive, and solutions-focused.
Desirable:
* Previous experience in a senior leadership or business development role.
* Qualifications in business, management, or tourism.
* Passion for travel and in-depth knowledge of key tourist destinations.
* Multilingual abilities and previous contract negotiation experience.
What We Offer:
* Competitive base salary + performance bonuses.
* Travel incentives and exclusive industry discounts.
* Opportunities for career progression and professional development.
* A dynamic, supportive, and purpose-driven work environment.
Join Happy Travels and Help Shape Travel Experiences Across the Region.
Apply today by sending your CV & cover letter to with the subject line: "[FULL NAME] – Area Manager Application"
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $75,000.00 – $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Employee discount
* Professional development assistance
Work Authorisation:
* Australia (Preferred)
Work Location: In person