Description:
Established in 1915, Haigh’s Chocolates is the oldest family-owned chocolate maker in Australia. Run by fourth generation Haigh’s family, we employ over 900 people across 21 retail stores currently located in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra, as well as online, plus two factories and head office. Using only the finest and freshest ingredients, Haigh’s prides itself on being a chocolate ‘bean to bar’ specialist, committed to the art of premium chocolate making. Haigh’s roast their own cocoa beans, ethically sourced from plantations around the world, to create a unique blend of premium milk and dark chocolate. Through meticulous artisan skills that include handmade chocolate creation and finishing, combined with advanced manufacturing equipment and techniques, Haigh’s creates exquisite chocolates that look and taste delicious.
As part of our continued growth and commitment to excellence, we have an exciting opportunity for an Area Manager to join our team on a permanent, full-time basis. This role is based at our Head Office in Parkside and offers the chance to contribute to our evolving business and make a meaningful impact.
As an Area Manager, you'll lead sales performance and growth within the store network across South Australia and as part of our 10-year Growth Strategy explore expansion into Queensland in the 2026/2027 Financial Year. Your role will be vital in managing the development and success of new areas as we open new stores.
A fundamental part of this role will involve supporting store leaders with budget management, stock control, and fostering a strong sales culture through training, strategy, mentoring and effective people management.
Your key responsibilities include:
- Communicate effectively with various stakeholders to ensure smooth operations and alignment with goals.
- Partner closely with People & Culture and other key stakeholders to lead, support and develop high-performing teams.
- Provide hands-on coaching and mentorship to empower managers and team members, fostering a culture of accountability, engagement and continuous improvement.
- Review sales performance, manage wage usage and track cycle counts to drive operational efficiency and success.
- Create enthusiasm for our business vision and strategic initiatives to inspire and motivate the team.
- Champion a positive and premium customer service culture by ensuring teams are engaged, well-trained and aligned with company values.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to maintaining and promoting work health and safety standards to ensure a safe working environment.
- Ability to travel to Queensland when required to support and oversee operations.
- Contribute to the successful execution of special projects as needed to support broader business objectives.
- Share our values of Contribution, Determination, and Trust to align with our company culture and mission.
Previous experience in a management role is essential to effectively oversee and drive growth across South Australia and Queensland.
Why join us ?
There has not been a more exciting time to join the Haigh’s team as we continue our growth phase which will see us doubling the production of chocolate for our Australian customers.
We have a strong values-based culture and offer a generous salary, short term incentive scheme, flexible working options, wellbeing initiatives, invest in professional development along with many other benefits. And just to emphasise, joining our team comes with the delightful bonus of indulging in plenty of chocolate!
Haigh's believes that by valuing differences in backgrounds, cultures, abilities and experiences, that our work environment will be free from bias and prejudice. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments for those with disability to provide a positive barrier-free recruitment process and supportive workplace.
Ready to add a little sweetness to your career? Apply today!