Cafe Operations Manager Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Company Overview

Our menu draws on the timeless tenets of Italian cooking: simplicity, quality ingredients and skilled preparation. We partner with local farmers and producers here in Ontario to showcase the best seasonal ingredients while honouring Italian tradition. By combining the flavours and techniques of Italy with the freshness of our local community, we offer dishes that are both authentic and accessible.

In every dish we strive to honour Italian tradition while offering a taste that feels fresh and thoughtfully crafted—served with a touch of Lenny’s playful charm. Join us and savour la dolce vita one bite at a time.

Position Summary

Lenny’s Cafe, opening this fall, is seeking a hands-on, motivated, and operationally strong Café Leader to oversee day-to-day café operations and lead both front-of-house and kitchen teams. This role is responsible for ensuring exceptional customer experience, maintaining operational standards, supporting staff development, and driving a positive, efficient work environment.

The ideal candidate is a natural leader who thrives in a fast-paced café setting, leads by example, and is comfortable balancing customer service, team leadership, food quality, and operational execution.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, coach, and support front-of-house and kitchen team members
• Foster a positive, professional, and team-oriented workplace culture
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, and training new employees
• Maintain calm and professionalism during rush periods
• Help organize daily prep lists and prioritize tasks
• Step into various roles as needed during busy periods

Daily Café Operations

• Oversee daily opening, service, and closing procedures
• Ensure smooth coordination between front counter and kitchen operations
• Monitor workflow and adjust staffing or priorities during peak periods
• Support hands-on operations during busy service times
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and customer service

Customer Experience

• Ensure every guest receives friendly and efficient service
• Handle customer concerns professionally and promptly
• Build strong relationships with regular customers and promote a welcoming atmosphere
• Maintain café presentation, cleanliness, and hospitality standards

Inventory & Operational Controls

• Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering supplies and ingredients
• Reduce waste and support proper food handling and storage procedures
• Ensure accurate cash handling and POS compliance
• Communicate shortages or operational issues to management promptly
• Assist with receiving and organizing deliveries

Food Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and workplace health & safety standards
• Maintain clean and organized front-of-house and kitchen areas
• Monitor proper food storage, labeling, and rotation (FIFO)
• Ensure employees follow operational procedures and company standards
• Ensure equipment is cleaned and maintained properly

Administrative & Business Support

• Support ownership with operational reporting and problem-solving
• Assist with implementing promotions, operational improvements, and new procedures
• Help drive sales through strong service standards and efficient operations

Qualifications & Requirements

• Previous leadership or supervisory experience in a café, restaurant, bakery, or hospitality environment (4-5 years)
• Strong customer service and team leadership skills
• Experience with POS systems and cash handling
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and lead under pressure
• Positive attitude with leadership capability
• Food Handler Certifications
• Flexible availability including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays

Preferred Traits

• Hands-on leader who leads by example
• Positive attitude with strong communication skills
• Strong problem-solving ability
• Reliable, accountable, and professional
• Passion for hospitality, food, and customer experience

Working Conditions

• Fast-paced café and kitchen environment
• Standing and walking for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs as needed
• Flexible schedule required based on business needs

Salary

$20 - 24 + Tips (depending on experience)

Our recruitment process may include the use of AI to assist with candidate screening. All applicant information is handled in accordance with applicable privacy and employment legislation.