At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead our vibrant café and shop, ensuring everything runs smoothly and customers feel welcome.
- Company: A small, independent shop and creative café in the heart of Totnes.
- Benefits: Join a close-knit team, enjoy a hands-on role, and make a real impact.
- Other info: Perfect for someone who loves creativity and community engagement.
- Why this job: Take ownership of a unique space and help it thrive in the community.
- Qualifications: Previous management experience in hospitality or retail is essential.
My client is a small, independent shop and creative café based around the Totnes area. We're a welcoming, community-focused space combining a café, small retail shop, pottery painting and creative workshops. We're not a large business or a corporate operation - we're a small team, and everyone plays a hands-on role in keeping the shop running. We're now looking for an experienced General Manager to take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the shop and help us continue to grow.
About the role
This is a hands-on management position covering the different parts of our small business. You'll oversee the café, retail shop and creative activities, while managing the team and making sure everything runs smoothly day to day. We're looking for someone who can take ownership rather than needing constant direction - someone who notices when something needs doing, takes action and cares about the small details that make a shop feel welcoming and well looked after.
Key responsibilities
- Oversee the day-to-day running of the café and shop
- Manage and support our team, including rotas, training and performance
- Maintain high standards of customer service, cleanliness and presentation
- Manage café and retail stock, ordering and suppliers
- Keep the shop and retail displays organised, attractive and well stocked
- Ensure pottery painting and workshops are prepared and running smoothly
- Monitor sales, stock and day-to-day costs
- Deal confidently with customer queries and issues
- Put simple systems in place to keep the business organised
- Make sure the shop looks and feels its best every day
- Work closely with the founders on the development of the business
The ideal candidate
We're looking for someone with previous management experience in hospitality, retail, leisure, events or another customer-facing environment. You may currently be a Deputy/Assistant Manager, Operations Manager, Hospitality Manager, Retail Manager or Venue Manager and be ready to take on more responsibility. You'll ideally be:
- Naturally organised and proactive
- Confident managing a small team
- Hands-on and happy working alongside the team
- Commercially aware
- Attentive to detail
- Confident making decisions independently
- Warm and personable with customers
- Comfortable working in a small, independent business where everyone gets involved
Most importantly, we're looking for someone who takes ownership. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys being part of a small, independent business and wants genuine responsibility for how the shop operates and feels every day.
General Manager - Hospitality, Retail & Creative Operations in Totnes employer: Mego Employment
At Vertu Renault Exeter, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values your passion for customer service and ambition. With a competitive salary structure, uncapped commission, and a supportive work culture, we offer industry-leading training and clear career progression opportunities to help you thrive in the automotive sales sector. Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with no Sunday working, generous holiday allowances, and a range of benefits designed to support your professional and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager - Hospitality, Retail & Creative Operations in Totnes
✨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 Mego Employment. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Mego Employment
Don't be shy about reaching out to Mego Employment 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 General Manager - Hospitality, Retail & Creative Operations in Totnes
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 Mego Employment 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 Mego Employment
✨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!
