Chief Operating Officer – Australia

We are now seeking a Chief Operations Officer (COO) in Australia to continue scaling our operations through the next phase of growth. This role will double down on our commitment to quality at scale while enhancing operational efficiency and profitability in our core markets. We are looking for an experienced executive with the capacity to boost organisational resilience and drive value creation as we strengthen our position as a ‘challenger brand’ in the quick service and fast casual industries.

The ideal candidate will have significant operational leadership experience in QSR, hospitality, or retail. They will ensure that our expansion remains focused on simplifying operations, prioritising customer and employee experiences, and upholding uncompromising product quality.

This executive search is open to all qualified candidates, including those based outside of Australia.

Desired candidate qualities:

• Deep familiarity with the retail and food industries – Proven experience with and understanding of the strategic pillars specific to these sectors, including but not limited to property and market development, retail technology and digital integration, supply chain management, and frameworks that drive operational efficiency.
• Customer- and employee-focused mindset – Ability to design experiences and operations that prioritise simplicity and ease for both customers and employees.
• Culinary-first approach – More than just an appreciation for food, this role requires someone who is attuned to current culinary trends and passionate about making delicious, healthy food accessible.
• Strong networks – Ability to add value through extensive connections with potential suppliers, as well as domestic and international industry contacts and talent.

Responsibilities will include:

• Executive oversight – Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with business objectives while managing partnerships, financial performance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Restaurants – Ensure consistent operational excellence by optimising processes, managing supply chains, and delivering customer-focused service across all sites.
• Food safety – Maintain full compliance with food safety regulations and promote a company-wide culture of safety.
• Technology – Oversee the enhancement and integration of restaurant technologies and data analytics to improve operational efficiency and user experience.
• Real estate – Lead site selection, lease negotiations, property management, and market expansion strategies for new restaurant openings.
• Risk and crisis management – Manage risk prevention plans and respond promptly to crises to safeguard people and ensure operational continuity.
• Leadership – Model company values, build high-performing teams, and coach direct reports to support growth and collaboration.

What you can expect when you’re part of the FISHBOWL Fam: 

FISHBOWL is one of Australia’s fastest-growing food brands, offering fresh, made-to-order salads with an Asian twist. Founded in 2016 in Bondi, we have expanded to over 50 locations across the East Coast of Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast). In 2024, we began our global expansion with the opening of our first restaurant in New York City (trading as THISBOWL). Our founding mission – to change the culture of fast food – continues to drive our team of quality-obsessed foodies who are dedicated to product excellence as we grow.

So why join us? Well, we’re not your average ‘fast food’ brand—we’re all about doing things differently. If you love great food, leading with heart, and growing in a team that backs your growth, you’ll fit right in. We’re here to help you thrive, not just work.

Here’s what you can expect during our recruitment process:

1. Introductory call with our Chief People Officer (30 min)
2. Case study with executive/s  – present a case study, which will be provided to you in advance, to some of our executive team. This exercise is designed to test your thinking so we can understand your approaches to structuring work; it’s not designed to be an exhaustive piece of work (in-person, 1 hour) 
3. Final stage interview with the CEO – diving deeper into your experience and the scope of the role (in-person, 1 hour)
4. Reference checks and move to offer.