based in Newcastle upon Tyne. Rooted in Lebanese hospitality and British cafe culture, we offer a warm, alcohol-free space that celebrates culture, comfort, and connection. Our vision is to serve premium coffee, fresh baked goods, and heartfelt service in a setting where everyone feels at home--whether you're here to work, unwind, or share moments with family and friends.
Role Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced
Shift Manager
to oversee the daily operations of our cafe. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills and a passion for the culinary arts, ensuring that our team delivers exceptional service and high-quality food production. As the Shift Manager, you will play a crucial role in maintaining food safety standards, managing staff, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for our customers.
This hybrid role combines the hands-on responsibility of a Shift Manager with the setup and planning insight of a launch coordinator. You'll work closely with the Owner to establish systems, lead the team, and ensure the smooth daily running of the cafe.
Phase 1 - Pre-Launch (Setup Support)
Assist with layout planning, equipment placement, and workflow setup
Help establish supplier accounts, stock control systems, and POS configuration
Create checklists, SOPs, and daily operational guides
Support recruitment, induction, and training of the initial team
Conduct stock intake, labelling, and organisation for opening
Phase 2 - Post-Launch (Shift Management)
Lead daily shifts with 2-3 staff members, ensuring smooth service
Maintain quality standards in food, coffee, cleanliness, and customer experience
Oversee opening/closing procedures, cash handling, and till reconciliation
Manage rotas, monitor staff performance, and support training
Track and replenish stock, ensuring minimum waste and accurate ordering
Act as a key point of contact for minor issues, escalating when necessary
Provide weekly updates to the Owner with feedback and improvement ideas
Responsibilities
Team Leadership
: Supervise and manage the performance of team members during your shift. Motivate staff to maintain high standards of service and teamwork.
Customer Service
: Ensure all customers receive prompt, friendly, and professional service. Address customer concerns and feedback effectively.
Operations Management
:
Strong knowledge of POS systems and order management.
Open and/or close the cafe as required, following standard procedures.
Oversee daily tasks, including food and beverage preparation, inventory checks, and cleanliness.
Monitor and ensure adherence to health, safety, and hygiene standards.
Stock Management
: Track inventory levels, report shortages, and assist with restocking.
Conflict Resolution
: Handle any employee or customer disputes professionally and escalate when necessary.
Training & Development
: Support new team members during onboarding and provide ongoing training to staff.
Reporting
: Provide feedback to the Cafe Manager about staff performance, customer satisfaction, and operational challenges.
Promotion
: Collaborate with the team to implement promotional campaigns and special offers.
Skills
Experience
: Minimum 3 years of experience in a similar supervisory role in hospitality, cafes, or restaurants.
Leadership Skills
: Ability to inspire and manage a team effectively.
Customer Service
: Passion for delivering an outstanding customer experience.
Organisation
: Strong time-management and problem-solving abilities.
Communication
: Fluent in English (Arabic is a bonus but not required).
Flexibility
: Able to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
Technical Skills
: Familiarity with POS systems and basic administrative tasks (e.g., email, reporting).
Attention to Detail
: Consistently ensure the quality of products, cleanliness, and overall presentation of the cafe.
Conflict Resolution
: Skilled at de-escalating situations and providing fair solutions for customers and team members.
Multi-Tasking
: Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously while maintaining efficiency and focus.
Can-Do Attitude
: Positive mindset with a proactive approach to challenges.
Punctuality
: Consistently reliable and able to meet time commitments.
Join our team as a
Shift Manager-Launch Lead,
where your expertise will contribute to creating an exceptional dining experience for our guests!
Job Types: Permanent, Zero hours contract
Pay: 23,500.00 per year
Additional pay:
Tips
Benefits:
Discounted or free food
Employee discount
Store discount
Schedule:
10 hour shift
8 hour shift
Day shift
Flexitime
Monday to Friday
Night shift
Weekend availability
Experience:
Shift management: 3 years (required)
cafe management: 1 year (required)
Hospitality: 2 years (required)
Language:
Arabic (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
Driving Licence (preferred)
Food health and safety (required)
Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (required)
First Aid Certification (preferred)
Work Location: In person