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Coffee Shop Assistant Manager - Stewarts Christchurch

Nestled in the heart of our popular garden centre, our coffee shop is a welcoming destination for gardeners, families and coffee lovers alike. We take pride in serving exceptional coffee, freshly prepared food and delicious homemade treats, all delivered with warm, friendly service in a relaxed environment.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Assistant Manager to support the Coffee Shop Manager in leading our busy team. This is a hands-on role where you'll play a key part in the day-to-day running of the coffee shop, ensuring every customer enjoys an outstanding experience. You'll lead by example, inspire your team and take responsibility for the smooth operation of the coffee shop in the Manager's absence.

Responsibilities:

As Assistant Manager, you will:

  • Support the Coffee Shop Manager with the day-to-day operation of the coffee shop.
  • Lead, motivate and develop the team to deliver exceptional customer service at all times.
  • Take responsibility for the coffee shop in the Manager's absence, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
  • Supervise daily service, ensuring food and drinks are prepared and presented to the highest standards.
  • Coach, train and mentor team members, helping them develop their skills and product knowledge.
  • Assist with recruitment, induction and ongoing training of new colleagues.
  • Prepare staff rotas, manage staffing levels and support with absence management.
  • Monitor team performance, provide regular feedback and encourage a positive working culture.
  • Ensure high standards of cleanliness, food hygiene and presentation are maintained throughout the coffee shop.
  • Maintain compliance with Food Safety, Health & Safety and company procedures.
  • Monitor stock levels, complete stock ordering and minimise waste.
  • Handle customer enquiries and feedback professionally, resolving issues quickly and effectively.
  • Support the planning and delivery of seasonal promotions, events and special offers.
  • Assist with cash handling, daily banking and end-of-day procedures.
  • Be willing to work flexibly and provide hands-on support wherever needed.

What You'll Need:

  • Previous experience in a hospitality, café or coffee shop environment.
  • At least one year's experience in a supervisory or team leader role.
  • A genuine passion for delivering outstanding customer service.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, coach and develop a team.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and remain calm under pressure.
  • A proactive, positive and hands-on approach to work.
  • Good commercial awareness with an understanding of sales, costs and stock control.
  • Confidence using tills, cash handling procedures and basic computer systems.
  • A good understanding of food hygiene and health and safety requirements.
  • Flexibility to work weekends, bank holidays and busy seasonal periods.

What It's like working at Stewarts:

  • Supportive, close-knit team.
  • A family-run business with strong values and heritage.
  • An opportunity to make a real impact on both the customer journey and the success of the centre.
  • Be part of a business that values personal development and supports its people to grow and succeed.

Benefits:

  • Generous staff discount in garden centres and cafés.
  • Free on-site parking.
  • Additional day off to celebrate your birthday!
  • Opportunities to attend seasonal events.

The Practical Details:

Contract Type: Permanent – Full time (40 hours per week including alternate weekends)

Location: Stewarts Christchurch Garden Centre, Lyndhurst Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 4SA

Reports to: Coffee Shop Manager

How to Apply:

If you're passionate about hospitality, enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and have a natural ability to lead and motivate others, we'd love to hear from you!

To apply, please send a copy of your CV and a covering letter to:

HR Department, D Stewart & Son Ltd, 8 Christchurch Business Park, Radar Way, Christchurch BH23 4FL

Or e-mail: [email protected]

Please Note: CVs that do not have an accompanying cover letter will not be considered.