At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage daily cafe operations, ensuring top-notch service and food quality.
- Company: Join a renowned family business with over 150 years of history.
- Benefits: Up to £13.85 per hour, sociable hours, and generous employee discounts.
- Other info: Enjoy free access to beautiful gardens and exclusive retail discounts.
- Why this job: Lead a passionate team in a fun environment while making customers smile.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality management and strong kitchen knowledge required.
- Location: Winchester, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Our Hillier Garden Centre at Dorkingis a well-established and popular destination for gardening enthusiasts, offering a wide range of plants, gifts, and outdoor living products. Our on-site restaurant is a key part of the experience, providing our customers with deliciouslight snacks, cakes, and beverages.
We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Cafe Managerto oversee the daily operations of our cafe. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of customer service, food quality, and operational efficiency. You will lead a dedicated team, manage stock and supplies, control costs, and work closely with the Garden Centre Manager to maximize the Cafe'ssuccess.
This role is being offered on a full time, permanent basis of 30 hours a week based on a rota.
We offer:
- Rate of pay of up to £13.85 per hour
- Sociable hours (daytime only)
- Enhanced pension Scheme
- Life assurance
- Full training
- Employee discount of 20%
- Discount of 50% on restaurant menu whilst on shift
- 31 days annual leave (pro-rata if part time)
- Free on-site parking
- Enhanced Employee Assistance Programme for both you and your immediate family, including free counselling onhealth, financial, legaland personal/family matters.
- Company Christmas gifts (eligibility based on start date with Company)
- Free access to exclusive retail discounts, deals and coupons, plus extra cashback on your Amazon and food shop
- Free entryto the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey and deals at other gardens nationally
We are looking for a candidate with the following skills and experience:
- Worked in hospitality at management level for both front and back of house.
- A good level of kitchen experience and food knowledge with the ability to ‘step in and support’’ if and when required.
- Thorough understanding of allergens.
- Knowledgeable in maintaining and monitoring Health and Safety in department.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to deal with employees at all levels, as well as external contacts.
- Able to be responsive to challenges and demonstrate a ‘can do’ approach.
- Remains calm under pressure.
- Effective time management.
- Eager to support and contribute to the wider team.
- Work with energy, pace and passion.
- Good organisation and prioritisation skills.
- Exceptional attention to detail and forward-thinking ethos.
- Demonstrate a professional, enthusiastic and flexible approach.
- Able to promote excellent team work to achieve exceptional customer experience.
You will be joining a renowned and established family business of over 150 years, working in a fun and friendly environment with an amazing bunch of people.We also place great value on all our team members and how they contribute to the ongoing success and growth of our Company.
Please note that we will only consider candidates who are already located in the UK and have right to work status.
We are an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, or age.
Garden Centre Cafe Manager in Winchester employer: Hillier Nurseries Limited
Hillier Garden Centre at Cheddar is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture where your passion for plants can flourish. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide comprehensive training, generous benefits including a competitive salary, enhanced pension plans, and a welcoming environment that values diversity and teamwork. Join us in inspiring customers to create beautiful outdoor spaces while enjoying the perks of working in a well-established family business with over 150 years of heritage.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Garden Centre Cafe Manager in Winchester
✨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 Hillier Nurseries Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hillier Nurseries Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hillier Nurseries 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!
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 Hillier Nurseries 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 Hillier Nurseries 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!
