Melbourne-based Sara Pantaleo runs food franchise La Porchetta, the Italian casual dining chain. But what does she get up to in her spare time? 

What was the last movie you watched?

The Intern with my sister and my two children. We all love Robert De Niro. It was funny and light hearted, not too much thinking required. We all had a nice laugh, and it was more about spending time together so we had a lovely night.

If you had an unexpected three-hour lunch break, what would you do?

Go somewhere quiet and read a book, watch a movie or catch up with a friend.

How do you stay calm in a crisis?

Over the years I found if I am calm it means the team has a calmer approach as well and they do not panic. At La Porchetta we have developed an issues management plan, so everyone knows what needs to be done and who is doing what.  This means that rather than panic we work through our action plan and checklists.

What don’t we know about your past?

I was a very active person and ran in all the Melbourne fun runs and in my late twenties I ran a Melbourne Marathon.

What book would you recommend?

I read business books as well as crime for escapism but a book that really stood out is Mao’s Last dancer by Li Cuxin.

Who do you admire in the franchising sector and why?

John O’Brien at Poolwerx.  He is passionate about his business and listening to his story of how he achieved his entry into the US is inspiring, as he has shown great resilience and determination with a never give up approach.

• Read more about La Porchetta and its three decades in business.
• Sara Pantaleo was one of the first in Australia to complete a Certified Franchising Executive program.