Cafe Manager in Training

Job title: Cafe Manager in Training

Location: TBD

Reports to: Director of Retail

FLSA Status: Exempt

Wage: $70,304

The Cafe Manager in Training (CMIT) role is designed for emerging leaders preparing to take on an Alfred Cafe Manager position. CMITs gain hands-on experience leading teams, driving operational excellence, delivering exceptional hospitality, and supporting the overall performance of the cafe. Working closely with leadership, they build the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to successfully manage an Alfred cafe while helping create an outstanding experience for both guests and team members.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, leads with accountability and hospitality, and is passionate about building strong teams and exceptional customer experiences.

What You'll Do

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and develop team members through ongoing feedback, training, and performance management.
• Foster a positive, accountable, and team-oriented work environment that reflects Alfred’s values and culture.
• Support recruiting, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and ongoing employee development in partnership with executive leadership.
• Ensure all team members are properly trained in operational procedures, hospitality standards, and product knowledge.
• Establish clear performance expectations and coach employees toward growth and improvement.
• Address employee performance concerns professionally and document developmental plans when necessary.
• Lead by example and set the standard for professionalism, urgency, communication, and hospitality.

Customer Experience & Hospitality

• Uphold and model exceptional hospitality standards, ensuring every guest receives a welcoming and consistent experience.
• Resolve customer concerns proactively and professionally while maintaining a calm, solutions-oriented approach.
• Ensure team members maintain strong knowledge of Alfred products, services, and menu offerings.
• Create a cafe environment that is warm, inclusive, efficient, and reflective of the Alfred brand.

Operations & Store Management

• Oversee daily cafe operations to ensure efficiency, cleanliness, organization, and consistency across all shifts.
• Manage scheduling and labor planning to support business needs while maintaining labor targets.
• Oversee cash handling, deposits, POS operations, opening/closing procedures, and store administrative functions.
• Maintain inventory levels, product organization, and ordering processes while minimizing waste and controlling costs.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, operational procedures, food safety standards, and health regulations.
• Maintain high standards for store appearance, merchandising, equipment maintenance, and overall operational readiness.
• Utilize operational tools and communication platforms, including Slack, email, and reporting systems, to maintain alignment and accountability.

Financial Performance & Business Operations

• Support sales growth and profitability by managing labor, inventory, supplies, and operational expenses.
• Execute promotions, seasonal launches, and business initiatives effectively within the cafe.
• Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, customer experience, and store profitability.

Product Quality & Standards

• Ensure all beverages, food items, and retail offerings consistently meet Alfred quality and presentation standards.
• Maintain deep knowledge of coffee, tea, and food offerings, including origins, blends, preparation methods, and flavor profiles.
• Train and educate team members on product standards and hospitality expectations.
• Conduct regular quality checks of beverages and food products throughout shifts.

Safety & Compliance

• Promote safe work practices and maintain a clean, organized, and food-safe environment.
• Identify and resolve operational inconsistencies, maintenance issues, and safety concerns proactively.
• Document employee or customer incidents and support investigations when necessary.
• Ensure all team members adhere to company policies and procedures outlined in Alfred handbooks and operational manuals.

What You’ll Need

• 3+ years of retail, hospitality, or cafe management experience preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team development skills.
• Ability to multitask, problem-solve, and lead effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Passion for hospitality, team culture, and customer experience.
• Flexibility to work mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime, and special events as needed.
• Proficiency with written communication, email etiquette, and operational communication platforms.
• Ability to remain responsive through Slack, email, phone, and text communication.
• Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements

• Able to lift up to 20 pounds without assistance.
• Move quickly and efficiently from one area of the café to another.
• Ability to hear and communicate effectively in English.
• Good vision, including the ability to see details at close range.
• Flexibility to bend and squat as necessary to perform cleaning and stocking tasks.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Capable of operating a cash register or tablet device to enter customer orders accurately and efficiently.
• Ability to speak clearly and project voice to effectively communicate with customers and team members.

Benefits & Perks

• Base salary: $70,304/ annually
• Medical, Dental, & Vision coverage
• Paid time off accruals
• 401(k) eligibility after 12 months of employment
• Annual cafe performance bonuses & raises
• Free shift drinks and employee discounts
• Growth and advancement opportunities
• Open Path Collective - Therapy Membership Reimbursement
• Employee referral bonuses
• Creative and collaborative team culture