Coffee Shop Assistant Manager – Stewarts Christchurch
Situated 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 homemade treats, all delivered with warm, friendly service in a relaxed environment.
Responsibilities
- 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
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: jobs@stewarts.co.uk
Please Note: CVs that do not have an accompanying cover letter will not be considered.
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