After 14 years with Krispy Kreme Australia & New Zealand, Nicola Steele has been appointed global chief operating officer (COO) at Krispy Kreme’s global support office. Steele will relocate to Charlotte, North Carolina, to join the company’s global leadership team as the iconic brand embarks on an ambitious international growth phase.
Steele’s journey with Krispy Kreme ANZ began as a crew member, before rising through the ranks to CEO, a role in which she oversaw significant expansion and market success. Her tenure has been marked by strong leadership, innovation, and operational excellence, positioning Krispy Kreme ANZ as a key market within the brand’s global portfolio.
A new chapter in global leadership
In her new role as COO, Steele will work alongside Krispy Kreme global CEO Josh Charlesworth and senior leadership, including Terri Zandhuis, David Skena, Jeremiah Ashukian, Atiba Adams, Alison Holder, Angela Yochem, and Raphael Duvivier. Her primary focus will be on ensuring world-class operations, enhancing consumer experiences, and driving the company’s mission to become the most loved sweet treat brand in the world.
“I’ve had the opportunity to grow within the company, giving me a deep understanding and first-hand experience of almost every aspect of our business,” Steele shared on Linkedin. “I am thrilled to be getting back to my number one passion, operations, as all operators would agree, it is the heart and soul of all companies!”
A strong leadership legacy in ANZ
As Steele transitions to her global role, Sophie Cave will step up to lead Krispy Kreme ANZ, supported by a seasoned leadership team that includes Peta Neilsen, Aimee Cutajar, Michael Darling, Andrea Cuevas, and Gerald Taylor.
Steele expressed confidence in the ANZ team’s ability to continue the brand’s strong trajectory in the local market: “I have so much confidence in our current leadership team, who will continue to take Krispy Kreme from strength to strength in the ANZ market.”
Steele’s integrated operations team at the global support office will include Christie Cruz, James Carter, Sam Fellows, Mike Mazza, and Patrick McIntyre. Together, they will focus on optimising Krispy Kreme’s global operations as the brand accelerates its international growth strategy.