At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations to ensure all sites run smoothly and efficiently every day.
- Company: HatHats, an independent coffee business with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working conditions, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Work closely with the founder in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and shape the future of an independent coffee brand.
- Qualifications: Experience in multi-site hospitality operations and strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 44000 £ per year.
A unique opportunity has arisen to join our Senior Leadership team as we embark on an exciting new phase of growth, and we need an experienced operator to help us build and deliver the systems, processes and structure to help us scale.
Who we are
HatHats is an independent coffee business with outlets across Kent, a small but growing vending network, and a Foundation giving grants out to the communities we serve and projects in East Africa. HatHats is not a franchise; we are not a chain pretending to be independent. We have been bootstrapped by the founders and live and breathe our values. HatHats is a business built by people who care about customer service, community and doing things properly. We are growing but we know we need an Operations Manager who wants to grow with us.
What this actually means day to day
The operations manager will work with managers to make sure every site opens every day. Every manager is clear on what is expected. Nothing serious is left unresolved. You will review trading data, understand how to build and implement processes and have the conversations that need having. You will also take on line management of our in-house maintenance function, which means knowing what is broken across the estate, by monitoring our internal ticketing hub and then assigning and knowing who is fixing it, and making sure nothing falls through the gaps.
Some of what you own:
- All store managers (currently 10), their development, performance and accountability
- Labour percentages, staffing and rota oversight
- Food safety, compliance and EHO readiness across the estate
- Maintenance, day to day coordination of our maintenance tickets and all hub-logged repair requests
- Engineer callouts and equipment prioritisation
- New site openings alongside our founder
- Driver management - we have a small delivery driver team who take stuff to our sites daily
- Shared on-call duties at weekends
The right person
Has run a multi-site hospitality operation. Knows what good looks like on the ground and is happy to roll their sleeves up and get stuck in where necessary. They will also know how to develop and implement processes and does not wait to be told there is a problem because they have already seen it coming. The right person is comfortable with the physical reality of running a live estate with lots of nuance from site to site. They can hold a maintenance function to account without needing to be an engineer and are equally happy firefighting problems as they arise on their own initiative.
Worth knowing
The founder is hands-on and you will work closely and report to him. Like with any fast-growing hospitality business, the team moves fast and we are obsessed with maintaining brand standards in terms of the drinks we serve but also the way our customers feel. This is a role for someone who wants to leave a real mark on how a growing independent business operates, utilising skills from other companies. The salary will depend on the person; please indicate your expectations in your email. We have a degree of flexibility for the right person who can help us deliver.
Operations Manager in Whitstable employer: HatHats Coffee Company Limited
HatHats Coffee is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its team members. With a supportive work culture, comprehensive training from day one, and flexible contract options, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment while enjoying competitive pay rates. Located in the beautiful Folkestone area, staff benefit from ample free parking and the opportunity to engage with a vibrant community, making every shift a rewarding experience.
Contact Details:
HatHats Coffee Company Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager in Whitstable
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like HatHats Coffee Company Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to HatHats Coffee Company Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to HatHats Coffee Company Limited directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager in Whitstable
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about HatHats Coffee Company Limited and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at HatHats Coffee Company Limited
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
