Cafe Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of food and beverage, the spotlight on cafe managers has never been more prominent.

As the cafe culture grows, so does the demand for competent leaders who can manage, develop, and maintain a thriving cafe environment.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a cafe manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the inner workings of cafe management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable cafe manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Cafe Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Cafe Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of a café, from hiring and training staff to managing inventory and ensuring customer satisfaction.

They are responsible for maintaining a high quality of food and service, financial performance, and health and safety in the cafe.

A Cafe Manager’s daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing and managing all areas of the café and making final decisions on matters of importance
• Ensuring that all guests feel welcome and are given responsive, friendly, and courteous service at all times
• Achieving company objectives in sales, service, quality, appearance of facility, and sanitation and cleanliness through training of employees and creating a positive, productive working environment
• Controlling inventory of food, beverages and supplies to ensure that it is consistent with café needs
• Scheduling staff hours and assigning duties
• Managing café’s good image and suggest ways to improve it
• Control costs and minimize waste
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
• Coordinate with vendors and order supplies, as needed
• Handling customer complaints and queries effectively
• Review and evaluate staff performance

 

Cafe Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Cafe Manager to oversee the daily operations of our bustling cafe.

The Cafe Manager’s responsibilities will include managing staff, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction, meeting sales targets, and maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of the cafe.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of cafe operations, excellent interpersonal skills, and significant experience in the hospitality industry.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the cafe
• Recruit, train, and supervise staff
• Ensure all food and drinks are prepared to a high standard
• Manage cafe budget and implement cost-saving strategies where necessary
• Provide excellent customer service to enhance customer satisfaction
• Resolve customer complaints effectively
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and compliance with food and health safety regulations
• Manage inventory and place orders with suppliers as needed
• Create and implement marketing strategies to attract new customers

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Cafe Manager or relevant role in the hospitality industry
• Strong knowledge of food and beverage preparation and service
• Experience with POS systems and inventory management software
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage and motivate staff
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Understanding of health and safety regulations
• BSc degree in Business Administration, Hotel/Hospitality Management or relevant field is preferred

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Free meals on shift
• Employee discount

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cafe Manager
• Work Environment: Fast-paced cafe setting. The role requires being on your feet for the majority of the shift and may include weekends and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Cafe Owner or General Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cafe Manager Do?

Cafe Managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a cafe.

They work in a variety of settings, ranging from small local cafes to large international chains.

The primary duty of a Cafe Manager is to ensure that the cafe runs smoothly.

This involves a range of tasks such as managing staff, ensuring high quality customer service, and maintaining an appealing cafe environment.

Cafe Managers are also responsible for handling inventory management, which includes ordering supplies, managing stock levels, and minimizing waste.

They need to ensure that the food and drinks served are of high quality and meet health and safety standards.

In addition, Cafe Managers handle the administrative tasks such as scheduling employee shifts, handling payroll, and managing the cafe’s budget.

They are responsible for training new staff members and overseeing the work of all employees to ensure that the service provided meets the cafe’s standards.

Cafe Managers also play a key role in creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers.

They interact with customers, handle customer complaints, and ensure that every customer leaves the cafe satisfied.

They may also be involved in marketing efforts to attract new customers to the cafe.

In summary, a Cafe Manager’s role is multifaceted, involving both operational and customer service tasks, all aimed at maintaining a successful cafe operation.

 

Cafe Manager Qualifications and Skills

A competent Cafe Manager should possess a variety of skills and qualifications that align with the role, including:

• Leadership skills to manage and motivate a team, ensuring high-quality customer service and a positive working environment.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with staff, suppliers, and customers, and resolve any queries or complaints in a professional manner.
• Customer service skills to provide a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience for all guests.
• Financial management skills to handle budgeting, inventory control, pricing, and reporting to maximize profitability.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations, ensuring the cafe operates in compliance with all relevant laws and guidelines.
• Ability to multitask and handle stress during busy periods while maintaining a high standard of service.
• Food and beverage knowledge to manage menu development, food preparation, and serving standards.
• Problem-solving skills to address and resolve operational issues that impact the customer experience or business operations.

 

Cafe Manager Experience Requirements

Cafe Managers often have a background in hospitality or business management, sometimes supplemented with barista or food service training.

Typically, at least 2-3 years of experience in the food and beverage industry is required, preferably within a coffee shop or cafe environment.

Entry-level candidates may have gained this experience through part-time roles or internships in cafe-related positions, such as a Barista or Cafe Assistant.

In these roles, they would have learned the basics of customer service, food preparation, and cafe operations.

Candidates with 3-5 years of experience often have a more comprehensive understanding of cafe operations.

They may have experience in managing inventories, creating schedules, and overseeing daily cafe operations, having worked in roles such as Assistant Cafe Manager or Shift Supervisor.

Those with over 5 years of experience in the cafe industry, or with a background in business management, may have proven leadership experience.

They will likely be prepared for the responsibility of running a cafe, including managing staff, ensuring customer satisfaction, maintaining quality standards, and handling financial matters.

 

Cafe Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Cafe Manager generally needs a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.

However, many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Hospitality, or a similar discipline.

Theoretical knowledge in food service management, customer service, and basic accounting is often required.

Additionally, knowledge of health and safety regulations is crucial.

Practical experience in a cafe or restaurant, particularly in a supervisory role, is highly desirable.

While formal education provides a good foundation, much of the training for this role happens on the job.

This includes training in inventory management, employee scheduling, menu planning, and customer relations.

Some Cafe Managers may choose to pursue a certification in food service management or a similar area to demonstrate their skills and knowledge.

Continuing education, such as workshops and seminars on new trends in the food and beverage industry or customer service strategies, may also be beneficial.

These not only provide up-to-date knowledge but also indicate a manager’s commitment to improving their skills and staying abreast of industry developments.

 

Cafe Manager Salary Expectations

A Cafe Manager earns an average salary of $48,980 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income may vary depending on factors such as the size of the cafe, the location, and the individual’s level of experience and skills in cafe management.

 

Cafe Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cafe Manager need?

Cafe Managers need excellent communication skills to interact with customers, staff, and vendors effectively.

They should possess leadership skills, as they are responsible for supervising and motivating staff to perform at their best.

Strong business acumen, problem-solving skills, and the ability to multitask are also crucial.

Furthermore, knowledge of safety and sanitation regulations, as well as basic accounting skills, are essential.

 

Do Cafe Managers need a degree?

While a degree is not typically required, having a degree in hospitality management, business administration, or a related field can be beneficial.

More importantly, Cafe Managers should have relevant experience in food service management.

Many Cafe Managers work their way up from entry-level positions.

 

What should you look for in a Cafe Manager resume?

A strong Cafe Manager resume should demonstrate prior experience in a managerial role within the hospitality or food service industry.

Look for evidence of managing staff, inventory control, customer service, and financial management.

Any certifications, such as in food safety and handling, are a plus.

Make sure to check for soft skills as well, such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.

 

What qualities make a good Cafe Manager?

A good Cafe Manager is a strong leader who can motivate staff to provide excellent customer service.

They are problem solvers, able to handle a variety of issues from staff scheduling to equipment malfunctions.

They have excellent interpersonal skills to build positive relationships with customers, staff, and vendors.

Attention to detail is also important, as Cafe Managers must ensure compliance with food safety regulations and maintain a clean, welcoming environment.

 

What are the daily duties of a Cafe Manager?

Cafe Managers typically start their day by checking inventory and placing orders as necessary.

They are responsible for scheduling staff shifts, handling customer complaints, and ensuring the cafe is clean and inviting.

Throughout the day, they monitor staff performance and provide training as needed.

They also oversee the preparation of food and beverages to ensure quality and consistency.

At the end of the day, they review financial data, such as daily sales and expenses.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified what it truly means to be a cafe manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about brewing coffee.

It’s about brewing experiences, one cup at a time.

With our definitive cafe manager job description template and real-life examples, you’re all set to take the lead.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every cup of coffee is part of a larger experience.

Let’s brew that future. Together.

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