Group Strategy Manager - Hawthorn East

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Coles Group is hiring a Group Strategy Manager in Hawthorn East, Melbourne, for a full‑time onsite role partnering with the Head of Group Strategy and GM Corporate Strategy to shape Coles’ long‑term agenda and priorities. You will lead evidence‑based problem solving, drive project plans, align the plan, manage risks, and collaborate with stakeholders to gain buy‑in and execution. The ideal candidate has top‑tier consulting (MBB preferred) or corporate strategy experience in a large complex organisation, plus board‑level presentation skills and proven people leadership with strong financial modelling. Benefits include hybrid options, gym, discounts, learning, and a share plan. To apply, tailor your CV to highlight end‑to‑end delivery and strategic impact, and reference Job ID 178938 on the Coles Careers site; emphasize collaboration and results.

We’ve been proudly serving Australian communities since 1914 and have grown to become a top 30-listed company on the ASX with a portfolio of iconic homegrown brands. At the heart of our continued success is over 115,000 team members working across the country, all contributing to bringing our customers smiles. You’ll not only get to see your work make a difference, you’ll be part of a team working together to help Australians eat and live better every day.

About the team

Strategy is making the future of retail a reality. We’re a big business with big ideas. Our team works together with all our business units to help bring those ideas to life. We stay focused on what’s next, so we can make our customers’ experiences even better now and lead the industry for years to come.

<h3>About the role</h3>

In this role, you will partner closely with the Head of Group Strategy and GM Corporate Strategy, Business Development & Capital to design and deliver Coles’ long‑term strategic agenda. You will play a critical role in shaping enterprise priorities, supporting executive decision‑making, and delivering high‑impact strategic initiatives across the Group.

You will empower and guide others to generate hypotheses, conduct robust data analysis, synthesise and interpret key themes and trends, and develop structured, evidence‑based solutions to complex business problems. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Provide fact‑based insight to assist the development and delivery of key finance and enterprise strategy initiatives.
• Lead the development and execution of project plans aligned to the Group’s strategic priorities, providing clear direction to the team.
• Drive the delivery and alignment of the Group’s corporate plan.
• Lead analysis and structured problem‑solving to develop and articulate initiatives, recommendations, and success metrics on priority strategic issues.
• Identify key risks across in‑scope projects and proactively develop mitigation strategies.
• Work collaboratively with senior stakeholders as a strategic thought partner, driving alignment and execution of enterprise strategic initiatives.
• Guide and support the team in applying effective, efficient analytical methods while ensuring accuracy and quality of analysis.
• Facilitate workshops and strategic discussions to advance problem solving, build buy‑in, and achieve agreed outcomes.

<h3>About you and your skills</h3>

You are an exceptional strategic thinker with demonstrated experience solving complex problems, shaping strategic recommendations, and delivering high‑quality analysis. You bring strong leadership capabilities and can inspire and develop a high‑performing team.

You’ll also have:

• Experience in top‑tier management consulting (MBB strongly preferred) or a Corporate/Retail Strategy function within a large, complex organisation.
• Experience in writing or contributing to board-level presentations and reports.
• Proven experience managing people and delivering projects end‑to‑end.
• Deep capability in analytical problem solving, financial analysis and building/working with financial models.
• High proficiency using advanced analytical tools and structured problem‑solving techniques.

What’s in it for you?

• Flexible working options: We know that work is only one part of your life, so we actively encourage a positive work-life balance and provide hybrid working options to help you achieve it.
• Office perks: Take advantage of our gym facility and fitness classes, free parking, BBQ area, mini-Coles supermarket, fooderie hub where you can sample new products before they hit the shelves, school holiday program and so much more when you come in.
• Discounts: Eligible team members receive 5% discount all year round on your Supermarket and Liquor online and in-store purchases. We also offer additional periods of double discount (10%) at various times throughout the year. As well as hotdeals exclusive to team members that translate into additional savings.
• Reward through recognition: Give and receive recognition, linked to our Coles values, through our digital recognition platform ‘mythanks’. You can accumulate points to redeem in the online shop for exciting gifts and electronic gift cards from an extensive range of retailers.
• Opportunities for learning and development: No matter where you start within our diverse business, you’ll have experiences, exposure, and education to satisfy you. Discover and explore a variety of career development programs and job-specific training.
• Paid parental leave: We understand how important your life outside work is and offer permanent team members paid parental leave to support you in balancing work and family.
• Investment in your future: Our annual team member share plan offer allows eligible team members to make regular pre-tax salary sacrifice deductions to purchase Coles Group shares.

About the recruitment process

We’re continuing to build a gender equitable team, and a culture that is just as diverse, inclusive and welcoming as the communities we serve. We are committed to creating a workplace that is safe and respectful for our team. We encourage applications from people of all ages, cultures (including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples), abilities, sexual orientation and gender identities.

We’re happy to adjust our recruitment process to support candidates with disability. For further information and additional contact details visit the ‘Our Recruitment Process’ section of our careers site or email [email protected]

Job ID: 178938

Employment Type: Full time

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