Shop Manager - County Down in Newtownards

This role requires a charismatic, commercially aware leader who combines exceptional hospitality instincts with strong operational discipline. You will create memorable customer experiences, inspire high-performing teams and ensure the site delivers both outstanding service and strong commercial results.

As the leader of our flagship location, you will bring personality, passion and presence while maintaining the standards that define the brand. You will be highly visible within the business, leading from the front, engaging with customers, motivating teams and helping create an environment that customers actively choose to return to.

The role acts as the conductor of operations and service, bringing together front-of-house teams, bakery counter operations and kitchen production to deliver a seamless customer experience while maintaining exceptional product quality and operational standards. Working closely with the General Manager, HR & Training Coordinator and Product Development Chef, the Shop Manager supports team development, product innovation, commercial growth and operational excellence across the site.

We’re looking for someone who will become the heartbeat of the site — a visible, energetic and inspiring leader who creates loyal customers, develops exceptional teams and helps drive the next stage of growth.

• Strong commercial awareness with evidence of driving sales, profitability and customer loyalty
• Exceptional customer service instincts and a naturally engaging, confident presence
• Ability to lead from the front in a fast-paced environment—visible, approachable and hands‑on
• Pride in standards, presentation and accountability
• People leadership experience, including coaching and supporting team performance
• Flexible and adaptable working approach to match trading demands
• Comfortable with operational procedures, compliance and daily routines

Salary / Benefits

• Hours: 40hrs per week - Flexibility required
• Performance‑based rewards (where applicable)
• Training, coaching and team development support
• Staff perks / benefits (where applicable)
• Supportive working environment with a strong leadership team

This is a high‑visibility, customer‑facing management role within a premium retail food environment. You will lead the day‑to‑day flow across the front‑of‑house and production areas, ensuring exceptional hospitality standards, strong operational discipline and solid commercial performance.

Nice to have skills:

• Experience recruiting and onboarding team members
• Exposure to stock management, wastage reduction and cost control
• Creative input into merchandising, promotions and customer 'wow moments'
• Good working knowledge of food safety, hygiene and health & safety requirements

Preferred education and experience:

• Relevant hospitality/retail management background is preferred
• Experience managing teams in a customer‑facing environment (management or assistant manager level and above)

Other requirements:

• Availability to work flexibly, including during peak trading periods and seasonal demand
• Ability to support the business with an enthusiastic, hands‑on presence during busy periods

What you’ll do:

• Lead the day‑to‑day operation, ensuring excellent service across the café floor, bakery counter and kitchen
• Set the tone on the shop floor—visible leadership, high energy and genuine customer engagement
• Inspire, coach and develop your team, supporting strong performance and a positive culture
• Drive commercial results by monitoring daily performance, supporting promotions and maximising sales opportunities
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organisation and compliance, with readiness for hygiene inspections

Bring personality to the floor, commercial focus to the numbers and leadership to the team—apply now to make the difference in County Down.