We are seeking a dynamic Area Manager to spearhead an exciting pilot project launching two pastry retail locations within Berlin shopping malls. This is a unique hybrid role combining strategic management (50%) with hands-on retail operations (50%), perfect for an entrepreneurial leader who thrives on building something from the ground up.

As the on-site operations leader, you'll be the face of the brand while reporting directly to the Italian headquarters. This isn't just a management position – you'll be working alongside your team on the sales floor, ensuring exceptional customer service while simultaneously overseeing all operational aspects of the business.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in proving this retail concept, with the ultimate goal of scaling across Berlin, Germany, and neighbouring countries. This is your opportunity to join an ambitious expansion project from day one and become a key leader in building a major European franchise chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Retail Operations: Work directly on sales floor serving customers (~50% of time)
• Team Leadership: Recruit, hire, train, and schedule sales staff
• Logistics Management: Coordinate product supply and handle deliveries when required
• Quality Control: Monitor service standards and manage customer feedback
• Financial Oversight: Control operational costs and budget management
• Reporting: Prepare performance reports for Italian headquarters
• Growth Planning: Develop strategies for future Berlin-area expansion

Requirements

Essential:

• Proven experience in retail or food service with both hands-on operational work and team management
• Excellent English language skills for headquarters communication
• Strong problem-solving abilities with autonomous working style and proactive initiative
• Valid B driver's license
• Entrepreneurial mindset with willingness to perform all tasks from sales to logistics
• Ability to work flexibly, including covering logistics duties when needed (refrigerated van deliveries)

Preferred:

• Italian language skills
• Experience in franchise or multi-location retail operations
• Background in food retail or hospitality sector
• Previous experience in startup or expansion environments

Benefits

• Competitive salary: €45,000 - €55,000 per annum
• Performance-based compensation structure with additional earning potential
• Unique opportunity to build a business from foundation level
• Significant career growth potential as the concept scales
• Direct involvement in creating a major European franchise network
• Hands-on experience in all aspects of retail operations
• Direct reporting line to company headquarters

This role is ideal for a motivated professional who sees every task – from customer service to logistics – as crucial to business success. If you're ready to take ownership of an ambitious expansion project and help build something extraordinary, we want to hear from you.

Keller is a recruitment agency that provides services to clients ranging from startups and non profits to multinational corporations. Keller emphasizes ethical search processes, attentive candidate care, and leadership placements that support long-term client outcomes.

To learn more about the firm and about our candidate services - please visit

Executive Search Germany:Headhunter and Recruitment Services in Germany

Legal Disclaimer

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or national origin, in accordance with German employment law (AGG - Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz).

Candidates must have the legal right to work in Germany (EU citizenship or valid work permit required). This position is subject to German labor laws including working time regulations, vacation entitlements, and social security contributions. All employment terms will comply with applicable German employment standards and collective bargaining agreements where relevant.

By applying for this position, you consent to the processing of your personal data in accordance with GDPR (DSGVO) for recruitment purposes only.