Cafe Manager

Reporting to the Lead of Operations, the Café Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations, service standards, commercial performance, and team management of the café. The role will ensure smooth outlet operations, high product quality, operational excellence, and an exceptional customer experience while supporting business growth and profitability.

This role also requires strong operational and technical capabilities, including hands-on knowledge of coffee equipment, basic troubleshooting, calibration, and coordination of maintenance support to minimise operational downtime.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage overall café operations in line with company SOPs and regulatory requirements, ensuring smooth day-to-day performance and timely resolution of operational issues
• Operationally hands-on during service periods to support front-of-house operations, beverage preparation, and customer service excellence
• Drive business performance by managing daily sales, labour, and operating costs, analysing performance trends, and implementing actions to achieve sales and profitability targets
• Oversee beverage and food preparation standards, ensuring consistency in coffee quality, presentation, speed of service, and overall customer experience
• Manage manpower planning and scheduling, ensuring optimal staffing levels, team productivity, and operational efficiency during peak periods
• Possess hands-on technical knowledge of coffee equipment, including coffee machines and grinders, and support basic troubleshooting, calibration, and preventive maintenance to minimise operational downtime
• Build and lead a high-performing team by coaching staff, fostering a growth mindset culture, driving engagement, and ensuring compliance with food safety, hygiene, and workplace safety standards and continuous improvement projects to enhance café performance and customer experience

Requirements

• Diploma or Certificate in Food & Beverage, Hospitality, Business, or related field preferred
• 3–5 years of experience in café, coffeehouse, or F&B operations
• Strong customer service orientation with a passionate, energetic, and people-centric personality
• Strong operational, communication, and team management skills in a fast-paced environment
• Hands-on knowledge of coffee equipment operations with basic troubleshooting and maintenance capabilities
• Positive leadership mindset with the ability to coach teams, foster collaboration, and drive a growth mindset culture