Cafe Shift Leader (Permanent)

We are looking for a confident and enthusiastic Shift Leader to take responsibility for the smooth running of our café during assigned shifts.

You will lead the café team, organise daily tasks, maintain customer service standards and ensure that food and drinks are prepared and served to a high standard.

You will be a key point of contact for employees and customers and will support the Café Manager with the day-to-day operation of the business.

Key Responsibilities

Shift Management

• Take responsibility for the café during assigned shifts.
• Open and close the café in accordance with company procedures.
• Allocate tasks and responsibilities to team members.
• Organise staff breaks and manage shift priorities.
• Monitor service levels during busy periods.
• Ensure the café is adequately staffed throughout the shift.
• Communicate important information between shifts and management.
• Respond quickly to operational issues.

Team Leadership

• Lead and motivate Baristas, Café Assistants and other team members.
• Provide guidance and support to colleagues.
• Train new employees on café procedures and customer service.
• Coach team members to improve performance.
• Lead by example and maintain a positive working environment.
• Provide feedback to the Café Manager regarding team performance.
• Encourage teamwork and high service standards.

Customer Service

• Ensure customers receive friendly and efficient service.
• Handle customer enquiries and complaints professionally.
• Resolve customer issues wherever possible.
• Escalate serious complaints to the Café Manager.
• Monitor customer satisfaction and service quality.

Food & Beverage Operations

• Ensure drinks and food are prepared according to company standards.
• Monitor product quality and presentation.
• Ensure coffee and food preparation areas are properly maintained.
• Monitor stock levels and report shortages.
• Assist with deliveries and stock rotation.
• Reduce waste and ensure products are stored correctly.

Health, Safety & Hygiene

• Ensure the café maintains high standards of cleanliness.
• Follow food hygiene and health & safety procedures.
• Ensure employees follow company safety policies.
• Carry out routine checks during shifts.
• Report accidents, equipment problems or hazards to management.
• Ensure cleaning schedules are completed.

Cash & Sales

• Support accurate cash handling and till procedures.
• Monitor daily sales performance.
• Assist with end-of-day cash procedures.
• Promote products and special offers.
• Support the café in achieving sales targets.
• Identify opportunities to improve sales and customer experience.

• Competitive annual salary.
• Staff discount.
• Free or discounted drinks during shifts, where applicable.
• Pension scheme.
• Paid annual leave.
• Performance incentives.
• Full training and development.
• Leadership training.
• Employee recognition programme.
• Overtime opportunities.
• Career progression opportunities.
• Supportive working environment.

Essential:

• Previous café, hospitality, retail or customer service experience.
• Previous supervisory or team-leading experience is preferred.
• Strong communication skills.
• Confident leadership abilities.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Good organisation and time management.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work flexible shifts, including weekends.

Desirable:

• Previous Shift Leader or Supervisor experience.
• Barista experience.
• Food hygiene qualification.
• Experience using POS/till systems.
• Experience managing cash.
• Experience training and developing employees.
• Knowledge of coffee and food service.