We are seeking an experienced and motivated Café Manager

About This Job

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Café Manager to lead daily operations, drive team performance, and deliver outstanding customer service at our VEND Virginia Cafe. The ideal candidate will be hands-on, passionate about food and hospitality, and capable of managing all aspects of a busy café. Located in the heart of the community, our café is known for its welcoming atmosphere, quality food, and top-notch coffee. We’re looking for someone who can bring energy, leadership, and a hands-on approach to daily operations — all while creating a positive environment for both staff and customers.

If you’re ready to take ownership of a vibrant space, work with a passionate team, and be part of something local and meaningful, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the café, ensuring smooth and efficient service
• Recruit, train, and manage front-of-house and back-of-house staff
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, cleanliness, and customer service
• Manage staff rosters, payroll approvals, and labour costs
• Monitor and manage inventory, ordering supplies and stock as needed
• Ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations (Brisbane City Council standards)
• Handle customer inquiries and resolve complaints promptly and professionally
• Track sales, manage budgets, and report on financial performance
• Drive promotional activities and seasonal campaigns to increase foot traffic and sales
• Work closely with kitchen staff to ensure seamless collaboration between front and back-of-house

Key Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in a supervisory or management role within a café or hospitality setting
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent customer service and communication abilities
• Good understanding of food safety standards and local council compliance
• Confident with POS systems, rostering software, and basic financial reporting
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently under pressure

Desirable Qualifications

• Food Safety Supervisor Certificate (preferred or willingness to obtain)
• Barista skills and knowledge of specialty coffee (desirable)
• First Aid Certificate (advantageous)