Cafe Manager

House of Bandits; Greater London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A new café in Tottenham is seeking a dynamic Cafe Manager to oversee daily operations, lead a small team, and engage with the local community. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring high standards of service, developing a seasonal menu, and driving marketing initiatives to attract customers. Ideal applicants will have a background in café management and a passion for excellent customer service. This full-time position offers a salary between £30,000 and £35,000 annually.

Qualifications

• Previous experience managing or supervising in a café or similar retail environment.
• Experience in stock and budget management.
• Strong leadership and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day running of the café.
• Recruit, train, and manage a small team of staff.
• Lead on café marketing and promotion.
• Deliver outstanding customer service.
• Develop a fresh and sustainable menu.
• Manage budgets, stock, and ordering.
• Collaborate on events and exhibitions.

Skills

Leadership skills

Customer service

Budget management

Organisational skills

Job description

Job title: Cafe Manager, House of Bandits Cafe (by Sarabande). Location: Tottenham, London. Salary: £30-35k, dependent on experience. Contract type: Full‑time. Start date: February 2026.

About Sarabande Foundation: Established by Lee Alexander McQueen, Sarabande is a charitable foundation supporting creative talent across fashion, art, design, and craft. As part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and social impact, we are launching a new café space beside our Tottenham studios and looking for a dynamic and driven Cafe Manager to lead it.

The Role

This is an exciting opportunity to shape a brand‑new business in the heart of Tottenham, a rapidly evolving part of London. As Café Manager, you’ll have the freedom to bring your ideas to life, build a vibrant, welcoming space, and create meaningful connections with the local community. You'll play a pivotal role in shaping the culture and success of the café while supporting Sarabande’s broader mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Operations management: oversee the day‑to‑day running of the café, ensuring high standards of service, hygiene, and food safety.
• Team leadership: recruit, train, and manage a small team of staff, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Marketing: lead on café marketing and promotion, developing a strategy that focuses on community connections, increasing footfall and revenue, and establishing the café within the local area.
• Customer experience: deliver outstanding customer service, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
• Menu development: work with local suppliers (where possible) and partners to develop a fresh, seasonal, and sustainable menu that reflects Sarabande’s values.
• Financial oversight: work with Sarabande’s finance team to manage budgets, stock, and ordering; monitor sales and costs to ensure profitability.
• Community engagement: collaborate with the wider Sarabande team to integrate the café into the Foundation’s public programme of events and exhibitions, whilst upholding Sarabande’s commitment to creativity, community, and sustainability.

Person Specification

Essential

• Previous experience managing or supervising in a café, hospitality, or similar retail environment.
• Experience in stock and budget management.
• Strong leadership and organisational skills.
• Passion for delivering excellent customer service.
• A proactive, hands‑on approach and the ability to take initiative.
• Interest in creativity, community initiatives, and sustainability.

Desirable

• Barista experience and/or food hygiene certification.
• Experience launching or developing a new food & beverage offering.
• Connection to or knowledge of Tottenham and its community.
• Interest in or experience working with charities, arts organisations, or creative enterprises.

To Apply

We are currently accepting applications so please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining why you’re interested in this role and what you would bring.

Experience: Required
Languages: English – Advanced
Employment: Full‑time
Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 yearly