Community Café Manager

Community Café Manager

Leeds Full-Time 26000 - 28000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead our community café, manage kitchen operations, and mentor volunteers.
  • Company: Join St Vincent's Centre, a hub dedicated to community support and engagement.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, a supportive environment, and the chance to make a real impact.
  • Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that values inclusion and community growth.
  • Qualifications: 2+ years as a chef/kitchen manager; food safety certifications required.
  • Other info: Opportunity to develop professional networks and enhance your culinary skills.

The predicted salary is between 26000 - 28000 £ per year.

Hours of work: Full time Mon-Fri 8-4 (flexible occasional evenings and weekends)

Rate of pay: £26,000 – £28,000 per annum

Responsible to: Trading Manager

About the Role:

You’ll lead our community café, a warm and welcoming hub at the heart of St Vincent’s Centre. We are looking for an experienced chef/cook & kitchen manager who can prepare high-quality meals, manage kitchen compliance, mentor our team of volunteers, and help us grow the café as both a social and commercial space.

Aim: To provide a high-quality, professional food offer to our local community through a sustainable business model that also delivers an engaging, supportive, and rewarding volunteer experience.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the day-to-day running of the café including breakfast and lunch service.
  • Ensure food hygiene, kitchen cleanliness, and health and safety compliance.
  • Supervise and mentor a team of 15 volunteers and 1 part-time staff (training & support).
  • Plan and implement weekly menus with affordability and nutrition in mind.
  • Income generation through food and service encompassing the wider SVP ethos and values.
  • Support individuals from a range of backgrounds to develop kitchen confidence and skills.
  • Work with the Trading Manager to improve income and expand services.
  • Develop and grow professional networks to benefit the cafe and centre.
  • Work as part of the centre team to deliver quality outcomes for our users.
  • Formal reporting and feedback.
  • Regular development meetings with the Trading Manager.
  • Recognise, promote and live the SVP values and mission.
  • Understand and comply with St Vincent’s confidentiality, health & safety, and equal opportunities policies and procedures.

Person specification:

  • Minimum 2 years’ experience as a chef/cook or kitchen manager in a professional setting.
  • Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene (minimum) & allergens certification.
  • First Aid certification.
  • Experience of managing or mentoring people – volunteers, apprentices, or junior staff.
  • Experience of working within a voluntary sector environment with vulnerable and disadvantaged people, those from a variety of ethnic backgrounds and those with mental health issues.
  • Excellent communication and team-building skills.
  • Understanding of safeguarding and supporting vulnerable adults.
  • A values-led, compassionate approach to inclusion.
  • Level 3 Food hygiene.
  • Knowledge of the SVP.
  • Experience working in a charity or community setting.
  • Experience supporting people with mental health, learning differences, or in recovery.
  • Familiarity with volunteer management best practices – Ability to use basic digital tools (email, spreadsheets, social media).

If you would like to speak to someone about the role please contact us on (01274) 513045 and choose option 3 in the call menu.

Community Café Manager employer: Volunteer Centre

At St Vincent's Centre, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment. As the Community Café Manager, you will not only lead a vibrant café at the heart of our community but also have the opportunity to mentor volunteers and make a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve. With a focus on professional development, flexible working hours, and a commitment to social values, we offer a rewarding career path for individuals passionate about food and community engagement.
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Contact Detail:

Volunteer Centre Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Community Café Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of St Vincent's Centre. Understanding their ethos will not only help you align your application but also prepare you for potential interview questions about how you can contribute to their community-focused goals.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with individuals who have experience in community cafes or similar environments. Engaging with professionals in this field can provide you with insights and tips that could be beneficial during your interview process.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare examples of your past experiences managing teams, especially in a volunteer setting. Highlighting your ability to mentor and support volunteers will demonstrate your suitability for the role and your commitment to fostering a positive environment.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on current food safety regulations and best practices in kitchen management. Being knowledgeable about these topics will show your dedication to maintaining high standards in the cafe and could set you apart from other candidates.

We think you need these skills to ace Community Café Manager

Leadership Skills
Kitchen Management
Food Safety & Hygiene Certification (Level 2 and Level 3)
Menu Planning
Volunteer Management
Communication Skills
Team Building
First Aid Certification
Understanding of Safeguarding
Compassionate Approach to Inclusion
Experience in a Community or Charity Setting
Knowledge of the SVP Values and Mission
Ability to Support Vulnerable Individuals
Basic Digital Skills (email, spreadsheets, social media)

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a chef or kitchen manager. Emphasise your skills in food safety, team management, and working with volunteers, as these are key aspects of the role.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for community work and your understanding of the SVP values. Mention specific experiences where you've successfully managed a kitchen or mentored others.

Highlight Relevant Certifications: Include any certifications you have, such as Level 2 Food Safety & Hygiene and First Aid. This will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in the kitchen.

Showcase Your Communication Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've effectively communicated and built teams in previous roles. This is crucial for mentoring volunteers and ensuring a positive café environment.

How to prepare for a job interview at Volunteer Centre

✨Showcase Your Culinary Skills

Be prepared to discuss your experience as a chef or kitchen manager. Highlight specific dishes you've created and how you ensure high-quality meals while maintaining food hygiene standards.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities

Since you'll be mentoring volunteers, share examples of how you've successfully led a team in the past. Discuss your approach to training and supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds.

✨Understand the Community Focus

Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of St Vincent's Centre. Be ready to explain how you can contribute to their community-focused goals and enhance the café as a social hub.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect questions about handling challenges in a kitchen environment, especially regarding compliance and working with vulnerable individuals. Think of scenarios where you've successfully navigated such situations.

Community Café Manager
Volunteer Centre
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  • Community Café Manager

    Leeds
    Full-Time
    26000 - 28000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-07-09

  • V

    Volunteer Centre

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