At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the team and ensure exceptional guest experiences in a vibrant coffee shop.
- Company: Join WatchHouse, a people-first coffee shop with a passion for hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy free coffee, lunch, and a stable 40-hour contract with great perks.
- Other info: Opportunities for real career progression and industry-leading training.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values your growth and creativity.
- Qualifications: Hands-on leadership skills and a passion for outstanding customer service.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 31200 £ per year.
An Assistant House Manager at WatchHouse is the embodiment of our Core Values and brand standards. They assist in ensuring the House delivers exceptional guest experiences, supports excellent financial performance, and contributes to operational excellence. By working closely with the House Manager, they help create a vibrant, dynamic, and welcoming environment for both team members and guests. This role requires a hands‑on approach to support the needs of the team and guests, keeping WatchHouse at the forefront of hospitality. At WatchHouse, we are committed to teaching and developing our Assistant House Managers—if you bring the drive and enthusiasm, we’ll provide the tools to help you thrive.
Key Responsibilities
- Support and Motivate the Team: Assist in fostering a collaborative and passionate work environment, encouraging the team to consistently perform at their best.
- Assist in Financial Oversight: Support the House Manager with financial responsibilities, focusing on KPIs, and identifying ways to increase revenue and drive efficiency.
- Daily Operations: Help oversee daily operations to ensure the Modern Coffee Experience is delivered to every guest, every day, understanding that hospitality sets WatchHouse apart.
- Opening and Closing Procedures: Assist in ensuring smooth opening and closing procedures, proactively manage issues, and help maintain a well‑stocked and functional cafe.
- Mentorship and Development: Actively support the mentoring and development of team members, ensuring opportunities for growth within WatchHouse.
- Compliance and Standards: Help manage and maintain compliance within the House, from daily due diligence to EHO inspections.
- Cleanliness and Service: Support the House Manager in upholding the highest standards of cleanliness, quality, and service across the House.
- Workplace Culture: Contribute to creating a vibrant, sociable, and exciting workplace that employees are proud to be a part of.
- Problem‑Solving: Address challenges with a proactive and solutions‑oriented mindset, ensuring a seamless customer experience.
- Collaboration with Senior Management: Work closely with the House Manager and senior management to align the House with WatchHouse vision and goals.
Key Skills
- Live and breathe the WatchHouse Core Values of Passion, Empathy, Diligence and Can Do.
- Always maintain a high level of personal hygiene and appearance.
- A hands‑on leader who motivates and supports their team to achieve operational and personal excellence.
- Comprehensive understanding of Food Hygiene and Health & Safety standards.
- Strong understanding of financial metrics and the ability to drive a profitable and high‑performing site.
- Skilled in managing both front‑of‑house and back‑of‑house operations in a high‑volume environment.
- Passionate about creating outstanding customer experiences with attention to detail and quality.
- Thrive in a fast‑paced environment, adjusting as needed to meet evolving business needs.
- Committed to mentoring and developing your team members to help them grow and succeed.
- Unwavering focus on cleanliness, organization, and maintaining impeccable service levels.
- Quick thinker who can address and resolve issues efficiently and effectively.
- Confident in making decisions, taking ownership, and leading your House independently.
What Can You Expect At WatchHouse
- Free Coffee & Drinks – Always – Sip on your favourite drinks, even on your days off.
- 40‑hour Contract – Benefit from stable, consistent hours with a schedule that supports life outside of work.
- Monthly Coffee Gift – Take home 250g of premium WatchHouse coffee every month.
- Free Lunch Every Shift – Fuel up with great food on the house.
- Team Social Budget – Celebrate, connect, and unwind with your team outside of work.
- Annual WatchHouse Party – Our legendary celebration featuring Core Value Awards, and prizes like trips to coffee farms!
- 30% Off All Food – Any House, any time, just for being part of the team.
- 30% Off Retail Coffee – Stock up on your favourite WatchHouse blends whenever you like.
- Work in Beautifully Designed Houses – Join inspiring spaces equipped with industry‑leading tools, surrounded by passionate hospitality professionals.
- Supportive Managers – We listen, we care, and we adapt to support your needs.
- Best‑in‑Class Training – From your first shift, we set you up for success with on‑and off‑shift development.
- Access to SCA Training – Advance your coffee expertise with recognised industry training (role dependent).
- Off‑Shift Induction Experience – Get to know WatchHouse culture with a full day induction in your first two weeks.
- Career Progression That’s Real – With new Houses and growth across the business, your next step is never far away.
At WatchHouse, we were born from a passion to do better—driven by diligence, attention to detail, and a genuine care for our craft and our people. We are a people‑first business that values individuality, personality, and the unique contributions of every team member. We champion diversity, insist on equality, and foster inclusion as a non‑negotiable part of our culture. Our team thrives in a respectful, collaborative environment where feedback is welcomed, support is mutual, and excellence is pursued together. Guided by our core values—passion, can do, diligence, and empathy—we build meaningful relationships, celebrate contributions, and work with purpose to deliver the Modern Coffee experience.
Assistant Manager - Coffee Shop in London employer: WatchHouse
At WatchHouse, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture. As an Assistant Manager, you'll enjoy a supportive environment with comprehensive training, opportunities for career progression, and unique benefits like free coffee and lunch every shift. Join us in creating outstanding guest experiences while developing your skills in beautifully designed spaces alongside passionate hospitality professionals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Manager - Coffee Shop in London
✨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 WatchHouse. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to WatchHouse
Don't be shy about reaching out to WatchHouse 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 Assistant Manager - Coffee Shop in London
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 WatchHouse 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 WatchHouse
✨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!
