Daniel Last
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven senior hospitality leader with a proven track record of optimising operations, enhancing guest experiences, and driving sustainable profitability across multi-unit food and beverage and accommodation portfolios. Adept at strategically reducing costs while improving efficiency and maintaining the highest standards of service excellence. Known for decisive independent decision-making, sound judgment, and the ability to lead diverse teams through change and growth. Skilled at fostering collaborative environments that empower staff, streamline processes, and deliver consistent business outcomes aligned with organisational goals. Committed to innovation, operational excellence, and cultivating a customer-first culture that drives long-term success in competitive hospitality markets.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
State Sales Manager, VIC/TAS (12 Month Contract)
Bob Jane T-Mart
02.2024 - Current
- Entered a new industry with a hospitality-driven approach, cultivating a customer-first culture and transforming outdated operational practices.
- Improved KPI conversion rates from below 25% to over 50% of lost sales recovered.
- Achieved labor KPI targets, maintaining a 14% labor rate across multiple states.
- Oversaw operations of 33 stores across VIC and TAS, encompassing both corporate-owned and franchise locations.
- Coached, trained, and developed three Regional Managers, enhancing leadership capability within the business.
- Provided targeted support to underperforming Regional Managers, focusing on improving financial acumen and time management.
- Delivered a profit-positive outcome with state-wide growth exceeding 7% within six months.
- Delivered regular performance and strategy reports to executive leadership.
- Maintained exceptional store presentation standards across regions by implementing and reinforcing "ways of working"—ensuring consistency from opening to close.
State Manager
Zambrero
07.2021 - 08.2023
- Accountable for the oversight and performance of the Corporate P&L and broader network operations.
- Established and scaled corporate operations in Victoria, recruiting and leading multiple teams while coaching and mentoring emerging leaders.
- Streamlined regional operations by identifying inefficiencies and implementing targeted process improvements.
- Managed regional budgets and financial reporting, delivering accurate forecasts and uncovering opportunities for cost savings and performance enhancement.
- Fostered clear and consistent communication with all stakeholders to ensure alignment on strategic objectives and operational goals.
- Successfully launched the corporate portfolio in Melbourne, delivering back-to-back store openings and achieving profitability within the first six months.
Regional General Manager
Retail Food Group
03.2019 - 06.2021
- Oversaw and held responsibility for a multi-branded Corporate and Franchise network across the country.
- Led national projects including new restaurant launches, MSO integrations, business transitions, and dark site activations.
- Collaborated with key stakeholders—Marketing, HR, Supply Chain, and Operations—to ensure seamless execution of initiatives with a focus on operational excellence and an exceptional guest experience.
- Managed all pre- and post-opening operational activities across multiple brands: Brumby's Bakery, Gloria Jean's Coffees, Donut King, Pizza Capers, Crust Pizza, and Michelle's Patisserie.
- Drove regional sales growth by executing targeted marketing campaigns and cultivating strong customer and franchisee relationships.
Director of Food and Beverage
Apartments of Melbourne
03.2016 - 01.2019
- Launched new food and beverage products with coordinated marketing and sales campaigns, driving market traction and customer engagement.
- Built high-performing F&B teams through focused recruitment, training, and hands-on leadership.
- Boosted profitability by optimising labor schedules, reducing costs, and implementing corrective actions based on variance and risk analysis.
- Streamlined operations by developing efficient systems and procedures that enhanced service quality and consistency.
- Elevated brand visibility through targeted marketing and membership growth initiatives.
- Introduced sustainable practices aligned with CSR goals, minimising environmental impact without compromising quality.
- Effectively managed budgets, ensuring cost control and agile financial planning throughout the year.
Food and Beverage Manager
Red Rock Leisure (Melbourne Airport)
07.2013 - 03.2016
- Led daily operations for a multi-million dollar, high-volume F&B cluster, executing short- and long-term strategies to drive profitability.
- Holder of ASIC clearance, meeting strict airport security and compliance requirements.
- Maintained full compliance with health and safety standards, achieving consistently strong inspection outcomes.
- Improved operational efficiency through inventory system upgrades and targeted staff training.
- Built strong vendor relationships to secure premium ingredients at competitive pricing.
- Recruited and developed top-tier food service talent, fostering a high-performing team culture.
Various Positions
Accor, Restaurants
01.2010 - 05.2013
- Highly adaptable, with a proven ability to learn quickly and thrive in dynamic environments.
- Strong communicator with excellent verbal and written skills.
- Experienced in both independent roles and collaborative team settings, providing support and leadership as needed.
- Background in fine dining, working alongside top-tier food and beverage professionals to refine and elevate my skillset.
Academy Sofitel
Accor Hotels
01.2009 - 01.2010
- Completed training at Sofitel School of Excellence, gaining comprehensive knowledge of 5-star hotel operations including food and beverage, front of house, and financial controls.
- Developed strong skills in teamwork, customer experience, problem-solving, and meticulous attention to detail.
Co-Owner
Tasman Produce
03.2018 - 02.2023
- Increased company profits by implementing cost-saving initiatives and streamlining operational processes.
- Managed daily operations to ensure timely project completion while upholding high-quality standards.
- Led the launch of new products/services, driving significant revenue growth.
- Directed marketing campaigns that enhanced brand visibility and substantially boosted sales.
Skills
- Operations Management
- Strategic Planning
- Sales Leadership
- Relationship Management
- Revenue Growth
- Team Development
References
References available upon request
Timeline
State Sales Manager, VIC/TAS (12 Month Contract)
Bob Jane T-Mart
02.2024 - Current
State Manager
Zambrero
07.2021 - 08.2023
Regional General Manager
Retail Food Group
03.2019 - 06.2021
Co-Owner
Tasman Produce
03.2018 - 02.2023
Director of Food and Beverage
Apartments of Melbourne
03.2016 - 01.2019
Food and Beverage Manager
Red Rock Leisure (Melbourne Airport)
07.2013 - 03.2016
Various Positions
Accor, Restaurants
01.2010 - 05.2013
Academy Sofitel
Accor Hotels
01.2009 - 01.2010
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