Shop Manager

Olympus Recruitment; Hampstead; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-loved independent coffee shop in Central London seeks a Shop Manager to lead its team and ensure top-notch customer experiences. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership experience in independent coffee settings, a deep understanding of coffee culture, and strong commercial awareness. Responsibilities include managing daily operations, training staff, and driving sales. This role offers a salary between £35,000 and £40,000 per annum, reflecting the important leadership role within a passionate hospitality setting.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Store Manager or strong Deputy Manager in independent coffee shops.
• Speciality coffee experience is essential.
• Strong commercial awareness and experience managing KPIs.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a team of baristas and front-of-house staff.
• Take ownership of store performance and P&L.
• Oversee daily operations including stock ordering and payroll.
• Ensure high standards in coffee and food preparation.
• Handle customer feedback professionally and constructively.

Skills

Leadership

Customer service

Team management

Commercial awareness

Problem-solving

P&L management

Education

Food safety/hygiene certification

Tools

POS systems

Job description

Shop Manager – Independent Coffee Shop

Our client is a well-loved independent coffee shop based in Central London, known for exceptional coffee, quality food, and a strong sense of community. With a loyal local following and a passion for doing things properly, they’ve built a space where customers feel genuinely welcome and staff are proud of what they do.

As the business continues to grow, they are now looking for an experienced and people‑focused Shop Manager to take ownership of the shop and lead it day to day.

Shop Manager – The Role

As Store Manager, you’ll be at the heart of the business. You’ll run the shop as if it were your own – leading from the front, delivering standout customer experiences, and nurturing a positive, engaged team culture. This is a hands‑on role suited to someone who understands independent hospitality and takes pride in quality, consistency, and community.

Shop Manager – Key Responsibilities

• Lead, train, and inspire a team of baristas and front‑of‑house staff to deliver warm, knowledgeable, and genuine service
• Take full ownership of store performance, including sales, margins, cost control, and P&L
• Oversee daily operations: stock ordering, supplier relationships, rotas, and payroll
• Ensure consistently high standards in coffee, food preparation, and presentation
• Create a welcoming, clean, and safe environment in line with food safety and health & safety standards
• Handle customer feedback with care, professionalism, and a solution‑focused approach
• Use sales data and KPIs to make informed, commercial decisions
• Work closely with senior management on local marketing, promotions, and community initiatives
• Recruit, onboard, and develop team members, supporting progression and retention
• Stay up to date with coffee trends, industry best practice, and new products

Shop Manager – What We're Looking For

• Proven experience as a Store Manager or strong Deputy Manager within independent coffee shops, cafés
• Speciality coffee experience
• Experience managing KPIs and P&L
• A natural leader who motivates through example and builds strong teams
• Strong commercial awareness with a hands‑on, practical mindset
• Genuine passion for specialty coffee, hospitality, and people
• Organised, proactive, and confident in problem‑solving
• Comfortable using POS systems and back‑office tech
• Food safety/hygiene certification desirable
• Flexibility to work weekends and key trading periods

Shop Manager – Salary & Location

• £35,000 - £40,000 per annum
• Central London

If you’re a passionate hospitality leader who thrives in an independent setting and loves creating great coffee experiences for both customers and teams, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and one of our team will be in touch within 48 hours.