Café Manager

Luciano, Pane Della Vita, is an Italian café located in the heart of the enchanting Obidos with a full view of the magnificent Obidos Castle in Portugal. The café is part of the global business group of Bennet & Bernard Gastronomy & Hospitality owning the brands of Black Vanilla, Barrels & Bones BBQ house and others. The global and diverse business house with fifteen years in operations has established itself as an international brand that epitomizes quality lifestyles, creates benchmarks of efficiency & excellence in the businesses we undertake. We are active in five countries and three continents.

Café Luciano is dedicated to offering an authentic Italian culinary experience with a touch of European flair.

Our day-long menus feature organic pasta sourced from our own factory in Italy, freshly baked breads and cakes, beloved Italian classics like pizzas and bolognese, alongside a selection of popular European and English dishes.

Job Summary:
Job title: Chef Manager

Location: Obidos
- Portugal

Key Accountabilities

Operational Management:

- Oversee day-to-day operations of the café, ensuring it runs efficiently and effectively.
- Implement and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all operational aspects.
- Manage the café's opening and closing routines, ensuring all tasks are completed.
- Ensures daily standards of guest experiences, property cleanliness and staff disciplines are well managed.

Customer Service:

- Ensure exceptional customer service is delivered consistently by all team members.
- Handle customer complaints and feedback promptly and professionally, resolving issues to ensure customer satisfaction.
- Develop and maintain relationships with regular customers to foster loyalty.
- Manage social media/ food delivery and partner platform inquiries, feedback and complaints

Effective People Management:

- Works alongside Chef De Cuisine to handle all matters of the café.
- Recruit, train, and supervise café staff, including baristas, waitstaff, and kitchen personnel.
- Schedule staff shifts and manage labour costs while ensuring adequate coverage during peak times.
- Conduct regular staff meetings and training sessions to maintain high service standards and improve staff performance.
- Handle disciplinary matters effectively with the staff, escalating if required, and providing regular feedback.

Financial Management:

- Partner with Chef De Cuisine to manage the café & budget, including material, labor costs, inventory costs, and other expenses.
- Analyze financial reports and make recommendations for improvements to increase profitability.
- Ensure accurate cash handling procedures and secure daily deposits.
- Maintains communication on financials with the owners and accounts in charge.

Menu Development and Quality Control:

- Collaborate with the kitchen team to develop and refine the menu, focusing on authentic Italian cuisine.
- Ensure that all food and beverages meet quality standards and are presented attractively.
- Stay updated on industry trends and incorporate new ideas to keep the menu fresh and appealing.

Marketing and Promotion:

- Develop and implement marketing strategies to attract new customers and retain existing ones.
- Organize and promote special events, such as Italian-themed days, tastings, and seasonal promotions.
- Manage the café’s social media presence and online reputation, grabbing the right content to post, working alongside the marketing teams too.

Health and Safety Compliance:

- Ensure the café and staff comply with all health and safety regulations, including food safety and sanitation standards.
- Conduct regular inspections and implement corrective actions as necessary.
- Train staff on proper health and safety practices.

Facility Maintenance:

- Oversee the maintenance and cleanliness of the café, ensuring a welcoming environment for customers.
- Coordinate for maintenance and repair services as needed to address any issues promptly.

Qualification & Personal Skillset
- Proven experience in managing eateries or of the hospitality background with a minimum of 10 years’ experience with at least 5 years of supervisory experience.
- Hospitality degree or equivalent professional certification/ experience.
- Required Portuguese, English and advantage of speaking in Italian
- Strong knowledge of food, beverages and pairings.
- Experience in inventory management and quality control.
- Proficiency in overseeing bakery operations crucial to the success of Luciano.
- Excellent leadership, team management, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to excellence in running operations and guest experiences.

Working Conditions:

- Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Ability to stand for extended periods.

To Apply: Please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your culinary e