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- Tasks: Lead high-energy shifts, support your team, and create memorable customer experiences.
- Company: Join Grindsmith, a bold Manchester-born coffee brand at Manchester Airport.
- Benefits: Enjoy staff discounts, free meals, flexible shifts, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Free car parking and a supportive team culture await you!
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team in a buzzing airport environment with no two days the same.
- Qualifications: Experience in retail or hospitality leadership; passion for coffee and great service.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
As a Team Leader at Grindsmith, you lead by doing. You’ll run high-energy shifts, support a brilliant team, and make sure every customer leaves with an experience worth remembering. With a focus on service, quality, and culture, you help bring our brand to life, every day.
Opening hours 0130-2100 Monday - Sunday, fully flexible to include weekends.
Why join Grindsmith?
- Be part of a bold Manchester-born coffee brand
- Work in a buzzing airport location where no two days are the same
- Grow with us—development opportunities and career progression
- Enjoy staff discounts, partner perks, and a free meal and drink every shift
- Be yourself in a vibrant, values-led workplace
- Free Car Park - On shift
What you’ll be doing:
- Leading shifts and creating a positive, high-performing team environment
- Coaching your team on the floor and celebrating wins together
- Keeping things running smoothly—stock, safety, service, and smiles
- Serving up top-notch coffee, food, and hospitality
- Living and breathing the Grindsmith values, every single shift
What we’re looking for:
- Experience leading teams in retail or hospitality
- A calm, confident communicator who brings people together
- A sharp eye for detail and a love for quality
- Someone who thrives on solving problems and planning ahead
- A passion for craft coffee, great food, and warm, authentic service
- Super flexible team players who can roll with the airport rhythm and bring positive energy to every shift
- Previous Barista experience preferred but not essential for the right candidate
Airport Vetting Requirements
Due to the location of this role airside at Manchester Airport, all candidates must pass aviation security clearance. This includes:
- A valid passport
- A criminal record check (DBS)
We will guide you through the vetting process and support you in submitting the necessary documentation.
Why Grindsmith @ WHSmith
Grindsmith is a values-led, independent coffee brand rooted in Manchester. Paired with WHSmith’s rich heritage and innovative approach to travel retail, this collaboration brings together craft, community, and decades of experience to create something truly unique.
Shift patterns that suit airport hours, with a supportive team around you. Free car parking onsite at Manchester Airport while at work. A strong development culture and opportunities to grow within the business. Staff discount, partner perks, plus free a meal and drink while working in a vibrant workplace where you can truly be yourself.
Grindsmith - Cafe* - Team Leader - 30hrs in Manchester employer: WHSmith Travel
Contact Detail:
WHSmith Travel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Grindsmith - Cafe* - Team Leader - 30hrs in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Grindsmith! Before your interview, dive into their values and culture. This way, you can show how you fit right in and share your passion for craft coffee and great service.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Team Leader, you'll need to rally the troops and keep the energy high. Think of examples where you've led a team or solved problems—these stories will impress during your chat.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your flexibility! Working at an airport means things can change quickly. Share how you've adapted to new situations in the past, and let them know you're all about rolling with the punches.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining the Grindsmith family. Let's get you that Team Leader role!
We think you need these skills to ace Grindsmith - Cafe* - Team Leader - 30hrs in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your love for coffee and hospitality shine through! We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the role and the Grindsmith brand.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in leading teams or working in fast-paced environments. We love seeing how your skills align with what we do at Grindsmith!
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to show your personality in your application. We value authenticity and want to know what makes you unique and how you can contribute to our vibrant team culture.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to see your application and get you on board with the Grindsmith family!
How to prepare for a job interview at WHSmith Travel
✨Know Your Grindsmith Values
Before the interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Grindsmith's values and culture. They’re looking for someone who embodies these principles, so be ready to discuss how your own values align with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Team Leader, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and motivate a team. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully led a team, resolved conflicts, or celebrated wins together.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle high-pressure situations, especially in a busy airport environment. Think of specific scenarios where you had to think on your feet and how you managed them.
✨Passion for Coffee and Service
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for craft coffee and great service during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your passion for quality and customer satisfaction.