Pottery Café Manager

Bonbon Pottery; Kingston upon Thames; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A local pottery café is seeking a hands-on Manager to oversee daily operations, staff management, and customer experience. The ideal candidate will have previous experience in managing a café or similar customer-facing business, along with strong organisational skills and the ability to make effective decisions. This practical, floor-based role requires excellent communication skills and the ability to maintain a welcoming environment for customers. Join us in ensuring an enjoyable experience at our studio!

Qualifications

• Previous experience managing a café or customer-facing business.
• Confidence in making day-to-day operational decisions.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the studio during opening hours.
• Manage staff rotas and support front-of-house during service.
• Ensure a welcoming experience for all customers.

Skills

Managing people

Organisational skills

Clear communication

Calm under pressure

Job description

Position Overview

We are looking for a hands‑on Manager to oversee the day‑to‑day running of a busy pottery café.

This role focuses on operational execution, staff management, and customer experience. You will be responsible for ensuring the studio runs smoothly during opening hours, staff are supported and accountable, and customers have a well‑organised, enjoyable visit.

This is a practical, floor‑based role suited to someone comfortable making decisions, managing people, and keeping operations running consistently.

Key Responsibilities

Daily Operations

• Oversee the day‑to‑day running of the studio during opening hours
• Ensure smooth customer flow, bookings, and session turnover
• Resolve operational issues promptly and calmly

Staff Management

• Create and manage staff rotas and shift coverage
• Lead and support front‑of‑house staff during service
• Address lateness, performance issues, and conduct fairly and consistently
• Support onboarding and training of new staff

Customer Experience

• Ensure a welcoming, organised experience for all customers
• Handle customer questions, feedback, and complaints professionally

Standards & Organisation

• Ensure procedures are followed consistently
• Maintain cleanliness, organisation, and presentation of the studio
• Monitor stock levels and flag ordering needs
• Maintain clear handovers and basic documentation

Owner Support

• Escalate significant issues appropriately
• Reduce the need for owner involvement in day‑to‑day operations

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Previous experience managing a café, studio, or similar customer‑facing business
• Confidence managing people and making day‑to‑day decisions
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• Calm, professional approach in a busy environment
• Clear communication skills

Desirable

• Experience with rotas, bookings, or scheduling systems
• Experience in hospitality or experience‑based businesses
• Comfortable being hands‑on and leading by example