Cafe Manager

About the Organisation and Role

Down Syndrome Kerry presents an opportunity for a dedicated Cafe Manager at The Mill Cafe, located at the iconic Blennerville Windmill in Tralee, County Kerry. This initiative operates as a social enterprise in partnership with Kerry County Council and aims to blend excellent hospitality with meaningful employment opportunities for people with Down syndrome. The role is full-time and fixed-term for two years, reporting to the Operations Manager.

Role Purpose

The primary goal is to spearhead the cafe's launch and its ongoing daily operations. The successful candidate will be a hands-on leader passionate about high-quality food and hospitality, inspiring the team through exemplary professionalism and enthusiasm. Collaboration with Employment Support Specialists is key to fostering a supportive environment where employees with Down syndrome gain confidence and important workplace skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily cafe operations focusing on service excellence, food quality, and operational efficiency.
• Maintain rigorous standards in food preparation, presentation, and customer service, embedding hospitality excellence in all activities.
• Comply fully with HACCP guidelines, food safety laws, and health and safety protocols.
• Develop and periodically review standard operating procedures, overseeing opening and closing processes.
• Keep the cafe clean, safe, and inviting while ensuring all equipment is safely used and maintained.
• Continuously seek improvements to quality, efficiency, and customer experience.
• Recruit, lead, and nurture a motivated and professional team, promoting inclusivity and respect.
• Provide on-the-job coaching and encouragement to employees, working alongside support specialists to reinforce learning.
• Handle financial responsibilities including budget management, sales monitoring, cost control, supplier relations, and preparing management reports.
• Enhance customer satisfaction by delivering friendly service and building a strong reputation for the cafe.
• Engage with the community by acting as an ambassador for inclusive employment and building partnerships with local stakeholders.
• Maintain staff schedules, ensure compliance with employment laws, and support organisational planning and continual improvement.

Qualifications and Experience

• At least eight years' experience in hospitality or catering, with significant management responsibilities.
• Proven financial acumen including budget management and cost control.
• Strong leadership skills and experience in developing effective teams.
• Thorough understanding of HACCP, food safety, and health and safety requirements.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, point-of-sale systems, and digital scheduling tools.
• Experience owning or operating an independent hospitality business is advantageous.

Desirable Qualities

• Experience or willingness to support people with intellectual disabilities.
• Commitment to inclusive employment with patience, empathy, and solid coaching abilities.
• Interest in social enterprise, community development, or vocational training is a plus.

Personal Attributes

• Passionate about quality food and hospitality.
• Confident, approachable, organized, dependable, and calm under pressure.
• Commercially savvy with a solutions-oriented approach.
• Positive, adaptable, resilient, and committed to inclusion and continuous improvement.
• Motivated by creating life-changing opportunities for others.

Success Indicators

• High customer satisfaction and strong financial outcomes.
• Consistently excellent food and service quality.
• Compliance with safety and organisational standards.
• High employee engagement and successful teamwork with support specialists.
• Growth in employee skills, independence, and community recognition.

Additional Requirements

• Availability for evenings, weekends, and public holidays as needed.
• Successful Garda Vetting clearance.
• Food Safety and Manual Handling certifications, or willingness to obtain.
• Possession of a full clean driving license is preferred.

Invitation

If you are driven by delivering exceptional hospitality, leading inclusive teams, and fostering meaningful employment opportunities, this role offers a chance to make a significant impact in a valued community setting.