Craveable Brands, Women in Franchising. Photo by Sarah Keayes/The Photo Pitch
Meet Deb Manietta. She’s a loyal, caring, adventurous and successful businesswoman.
Deb first got her start working for Craveable Brands as a casual team member at Red Rooster when she was 18. It was supposed to be a part-time job while she studied at The University of Queensland. But the fast-paced business kept Deb focused and motivated to succeed and she wasn’t ready to move on.
Deb progressed through the ranks, landing a restaurant manager role at 22 years old. Through this role, she developed a passion for coaching and management which saw her travel the country to assist on various projects for the business. She then became a Business Consultant for Red Rooster. Three years later, she moved across to Oporto and within 12 months, she became State Manager where she oversees 20 stores and 15 franchises.
Over the years, Deb says support from her leaders has helped her to be her best. Now, she’s determined to be the same encouraging figure to her own staff. “I love seeing others succeed,” Deb says. “It’s so rewarding to see people have that ‘lightbulb moment’ or watch them achieve their goals. I love being able to share in that.”
Deb is passionate about opening doors for other women in leadership. “In my career, I’ve had male line managers dismiss me or roadblock me,” she shares. “The challenge is staying motivated and moving forward. You have to create your own opportunities, no one is going to hand you anything. Push yourself and don’t be afraid to make the tough call.”
Deb believes it’s time we call out the different expectations held of women in leadership. “There is still a double standard around how women in leadership are perceived and expected to act. A woman showing empathy is seen as weak while a man who’s empathetic is praised and respected. We have to always consider our actions,” she says.
While there have been improvements for women in the workforce, she believes there is a long way to go. “Gender pay equality, flexible working arrangements and parental leave are the big ones,” she explains. “I’d also like to see more awareness and opportunity for women to engage in peer-to-peer mentoring especially at the emerging levels.”