Position Summary
The Café Lead is responsible for the day-to-day operation of Willowtree Farm’s café and beverage program. This role is a hands-on leadership position focused on delivering an exceptional guest experience while overseeing coffee, smoothies, specialty beverages, and alcoholic drinks.
The Café Lead serves as the lead person on the retail café side and takes ownership of café operations, inventory, menu development, and team coordination. This position works closely with the kitchen team to ensure seamless service of food, bakery, and beverage offerings.
Key ResponsibilitiesGuest Experience
- Deliver outstanding customer service and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
- Lead by example by maintaining high standards of hospitality, efficiency, and professionalism.
- Resolve guest concerns promptly and professionally.
- Continuously look for ways to elevate the café experience and exceed guest expectations.
Beverage Program Management
- Prepare and oversee all beverage offerings, including:
- Drip coffee and specialty coffee beverages
- Tea and iced drinks
- Smoothies and frozen beverages
- Seasonal feature drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Maintain consistency in beverage recipes, presentation, and quality.
- Develop and refresh seasonal and monthly drink menus.
- Cost all beverage items to ensure target profit margins are achieved.
- Research trends and introduce new offerings that align with Willowtree Farm’s brand.
Note: Willowtree Farm does not currently operate an espresso machine but plans to add one within the next year. Experience with espresso-based beverages is considered an asset.
Operations
- Complete all opening and closing procedures.
- Ensure cleanliness, organization, and food safety standards are consistently maintained.
- Monitor product quality and freshness.
- Ensure all equipment is operating properly and report maintenance issues as needed.
- Assist with merchandising, display presentation, and maintaining the visual appeal of the café and beverage area.
Inventory and Ordering
- Monitor inventory levels for all café supplies, ingredients, and packaging.
- Submit weekly order requirements to the General Manager.
- Receive and organize deliveries.
- Minimize waste and control costs.
Team Leadership
- Provide direction and support to café team members during shifts.
- Delegate tasks and ensure efficient workflow during busy periods.
- Train new team members on beverage preparation, service standards, and operational procedures.
- Foster a positive and collaborative team environment.
- Maintain smooth daily operations in the absence of management.
Collaboration with Kitchen Team
- Coordinate closely with the kitchen team regarding menu items, bakery offerings, and inventory needs.
- Ensure food and beverage offerings are presented cohesively and served efficiently.
Compliance
- Follow all health and safety regulations.
- Ensure compliance with Ontario liquor service regulations and Smart Serve requirements.
- Maintain accurate records as required.
Qualifications
- Minimum 2–3 years of experience in a café, coffee shop, restaurant, or hospitality setting.
- Barista training and experience is a must.
- Previous supervisory or team lead experience preferred.
- Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Experience with beverage menu development and recipe costing.
- Knowledge of inventory management and ordering.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and multitask effectively.
- Smart Serve Certification a must.
- Food Handler Certification required.
- WHMIS 2015 training
- Occupational Health and Safety Awareness Training
- Experience with specialty coffee and espresso equipment is an asset.
Skills and Attributes
- Passion for hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences.
- Creative and trend-aware with beverage development.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Reliable, self-motivated, and detail-oriented.
- Positive attitude and team-first mindset.
- Comfortable taking ownership and working independently.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
- Ability to work weekends and holidays are required.
Compensation and Benefits
- Full-time, permanent position.
- Competitive compensation based on experience.
- Employee discounts.
Why Join Willowtree Farm?
Willowtree Farm is a destination where guests come to enjoy fresh food, memorable experiences, and warm hospitality. As Café Lead, you will have the opportunity to shape and grow our beverage program, bring creative ideas to life, and play a key role in delivering exceptional experiences to thousands of guests each season.
What We’re Looking For?
We’re looking for someone who is passionate about hospitality, takes pride in creating exceptional guest experiences, and enjoys working in a collaborative farm market environment. The ideal candidate is proactive, dependable, creative, pays attention to detail, and is excited to help grow and evolve Willowtree Farm’s café program.
*This is a new position with the company.
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We consider applicants without regard to age, race, colour, creed, ancestry, origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, record of offences, disability, or other protected status. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. We assure you that your opportunity for employment with this company depends solely on your qualifications.
Pay: $20.00-$24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- On-site parking
- Store discount
Application question(s):
- Are you currently in school?
- Do you have another job?
- Why does this position interest you?
Work Location: In person
