Coffee Shop Lead (GM) - Midtown East (54th St)

We call this role Coffee Shop Lead (CSL) because that's exactly what you'll be doing- leading the coffee shop. You'll be the heart of the store, shaping the environment, the culture, and the customer experience. From the music playing to the drinks on the counter to how your team feels clocking in, you set the tone .

As a CSL, you balance the art of great coffee with the science of smooth operations. You coach, you guide, you taste, and you hustle. You're here to make sure the shop thrives-operationally, financially, and as a vibrant community hub.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Leadership
• Oversee all day-to-day operations including inventory, cleanliness, and customer service, and staff callouts.
• Confidently open and close the shop, ensuring your team is set up for success at all times.
• Implement and maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming environment in line with company standards or SOPs.
• Ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations, including NYC DOH protocols.
• Team Development & Culture
• Lead, train, and develop your team-including Shift Leads, Baristas, and Cashiers.
• Mentor Shift Leads to take on more leadership and act as your right hand.
• Foster a culture of positivity, inclusivity, and collaboration.
• Set clear expectations around punctuality, dress code, and performance-and lead by example.
• Support career growth within the shop by recognizing strengths and guiding development paths.
• Coffee & Quality Control
• Maintain consistently high standards in drink and food preparation.
• Perform regular quality checks and tastings with your team.
• Stay in the loop with coffee programs, cuppings, and collaborate with the Coffee Trainer and Production teams and your District Manager.
• Ensure FIFO (First In, First Out) systems are in place to reduce waste and maintain freshness.
• Customer Experience & Brand Stewardship
• Create an inviting atmosphere through music, product selection, and store vibe.
• Solve guest concerns quickly and kindly, always protecting the customer experience.
• Represent Birch Coffee's values in everything you do-from your demeanor to your decision-making.
• Sales & Financial Management
• Track daily sales, manage budgets, and make decisions to support financial goals.
• Implement creative initiatives to boost sales, community engagement, and team morale.
• Monitor product costs and inventory to maintain profitability and minimize waste.
• Communication & Collaboration
• Ensure effective communication flows through your shop-everyone should have the info they need.
• Meet regularly with leadership and share updates, feedback, and wins.
• Keep the team aligned on promos, product launches, and operational changes.

What We're Looking For:

• Proven experience leading a high-volume coffee shop or food & beverage operation.
• A strong, empathetic leader who supports and challenges their team.
• A detail-oriented operator who thrives in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
• Skilled at building team culture and developing people through honest, kind feedback.
• Knowledgeable about coffee, passionate about quality, and excited to share that passion.
• Professional, reliable, and solution-oriented.
• NYC DOH Food Handler's Certificate (or willing to obtain within 30 days).

Why Join Us?

Lead your own team in a creative, collaborative environment.

Contribute meaningfully to a growing, mission-driven company.

Opportunities for advancement in leadership and operations.