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General Manager Fair Shot Café
Location: Central London
Reports to: Head of Operations
Salary: Competitive
Role Overview;
As the General Manager, you will oversee the overall success and smooth operation of the café, ensuring high standards of customer service, financial performance, and operational excellence. You will lead the team, drive revenue growth, and foster an inclusive and supportive work environment, particularly for learners and trainees.
You will work closely with the Café Manager, who handles day-to-day operations such as stock orders, invoicing, health & safety, and trainee well-being.
Key ResponsibilitiesOperations & Leadership;
- Oversee daily café operations, ensuring high service, quality, and efficiency standards.
- Act as a mentor, motivator, and brand ambassador, fostering a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
- Lead a team with high emotional intelligence (EQ), handling challenges with composure.
- Manage the upkeep of premises, maintenance, and service subscriptions.
- Identify and implement improvements in operational systems and processes.
- Support venue hire and event management, ensuring smooth café operations.
- Work with the Head of Operations to maintain and update the Operations Manual.
- Customer Experience;
- Maintain and enhance exceptional customer service.
- Foster a positive and engaging environment for customers, trainees, and staff.
HR & People Management;
- Oversee all HR functions for the café team, including:
- Performance reviews and disciplinary procedures
- Hiring, onboarding, and training
- Managing holiday requests and sick pay
- Payroll and rota management for a team of 10+
- Implement and review staff benefits quarterly to improve employee well-being.
- Ensure compliance with employment laws and best HR practices.
- Lead initiatives to boost team morale, including quarterly feedback surveys.
Financial Management;
- Budget & Cost Control: Manage budgets, control costs, and drive revenue.
- Revenue Growth & Expansion: Develop new business opportunities and strengthen the cafés brand.
Financial Planning & Reporting:
- Own monthly café performance reports and financial administration.
- Prepare management reports for monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reviews.
- Oversee invoice management, VAT preparation, and financial compliance.
- Ensure accurate use of financial software, POS systems, and donation docks.
Compliance & Health & Safety;
- Ensure full compliance with health, safety, and food hygiene regulations.
- Be prepared to work front-of-house (FOH) and step in for emergencies.
Programme Collaboration;
- Work closely with the Programme Team & Programme Coordinator to ensure smooth collaboration between Mencap and Fair Shot.
- Support trainee development and contribute to curriculum improvement.
- Balance business objectives with impact goals to deliver meaningful trainee outcomes.
- Train café staff to mentor and guide trainees effectively.
Required Experience & SkillsExperience;
- 5+ years in hospitality
- 3+ years in multi-unit F&B management
- Experience managing P&L, budgets, payroll, and financial reports
- Direct rota management of a team of 10+
- Experience handling complex hospitality team challenges
- Coffee-making experience (desired)
Soft Skills;
- Leadership & People Development Strong team management, mentorship, and coaching abilities.
- Critical Decision-Making & Problem-Solving Ability to navigate operational challenges.
- Communication Clear and professional interaction with staff, trainees, and customers.
- Can-Do Attitude Proactive, enthusiastic, and driven approach.
- Financial Acumen Strong numerical skills and proficiency in Excel.
Other Requirements;
- Genuine passion for hospitality
- BS Enhanced Check (to be arranged and reimbursed upon probation completion)
Why Join Fair Shot?
Fair Shot is a mission-driven café dedicated to providing opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities. This role offers the chance to make a real impact while driving business success, growing a high-performing team, and ensuring exceptional customer experiences.
Ready to take on a role that combines business leadership with social impact? Apply today!
