Job Description

Job Title:

Assistant Manager - Normandy Community Shop & Cafe

Location:

Manor Fruit Farm, Normandy, Guildford GU3 2DT

Reports To:

General Manager - Normandy Community Shop & Cafe

Employment Type:

Full-Time

Our Story

The Normandy Community Shop & Cafe (NCSAC) began as a grassroots effort by local residents who wanted a friendly, convenient place to shop and socialise close to home. Thanks to their passion and hard work plus countless hours from volunteers, our shop and cafe has blossomed into a thriving community hub. Today, we're known for our welcoming atmosphere, fresh local produce, and the sense of belonging we bring to everyone who walks through our doors.

Link to General Manager

This job description is almost identical to the job description of the General Manager (GM). The Assistant Manager (AM) operates under the direction of the GM to help carry out these responsibilities and meet the expected outcomes for NCSAC. The specific allocation of responsibilities will be managed between the GM and AM through regular discussion based on the needs of the business.

Job Purpose

The Assistant Manager (AM) supports the General Manager (GM) in ensuring the Normandy Community Shop & Cafe (NCSAC) runs smoothly as a welcoming, vibrant, and sustainable hub for the community. The AM helps manage day-to-day operations, supports staff and volunteers, ensures high standards of service, and contributes to NCSAC's community impact and financial sustainability. The AM deputises for the GM when the GM is not around.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

Oversee the ongoing operations of the shop and cafe, ensuring smooth service and an excellent customer experience. Develop and implement efficient processes for inventory management, ordering, and stock control. Ensure compliance with food hygiene, health and safety, and licensing regulations. Maintain the shop and cafe's physical environment, ensuring it remains clean, safe, and welcoming. Ensure that all operational policies and procedures are followed to maintain high service standards.

Financial & Business Management

Monitor and manage the financial performance, including sales, cost control, and gross profit. Contribute to the development of budgets, track financial performance, and report performance against budget to the Committee. Identify opportunities to increase revenue, such as events, catering, or new product offerings. Maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure cost-effective purchasing. Ensure financial sustainability through responsible expenditure.

Staff & Volunteer Management

Recruit, train, and manage a team of staff and volunteers to deliver excellent service. Create a positive, inclusive, and supportive working environment. Develop and implement schedules to ensure adequate staffing levels. Foster volunteer engagement and retention through clear communication, support, and recognition. Provide mentorship and training opportunities to enhance staff and volunteer skills. Promote teamwork and encourage a culture of respect, engagement, and development.

Community Engagement & Marketing

Build strong relationships with the local community to encourage support and involvement. Develop and maintain strong relationships with local suppliers and community partners. Develop and execute marketing initiatives, including social media, local partnerships, and events. Work with the Committee and volunteers to create community-led initiatives and programs. Promote awareness of the shop and cafe's role as a community hub through outreach and communication strategies. Encourage customer engagement through loyalty programs, feedback surveys, and special promotions.

Expected Outcomes

Consistently high levels of customer satisfaction

Financial performance against budget

Staff and volunteer engagement

Compliance with health and safety regulations

Community involvement

Percentage of products sold that are sourced locally

Increased customer footfall

Successful execution of marketing campaigns

Sustained volunteer participation

Skills & Experience Required

Experience in retail or hospitality enterprise. Strong leadership and team management skills. Business acumen, including financial management and budgeting experience. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Passion for community engagement and local initiatives. Ability to work flexibly, including occasional weekends or evenings as required. Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Ability to work independently and make informed decisions.

Desirable Attributes

Knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations. Marketing and social media experience. Experience in a not-for-profit or social enterprise setting. Experience working with volunteers. Experience in event planning and community outreach. Familiarity with grant writing and securing funding opportunities.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 28,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking
Work Location: In person