Cafe Lead

About The Commons

The Commons is an ecosystem of entrepreneurs, businesses, and curious minds—working, connecting, and growing under a common roof. Driven by the sincere desire to see people flourish, we support curiosity and believe in the collective power of people to instigate change. Our focus is on building and strengthening community, and we challenge the status quo in an effort to innovate.

As a fast-growing team, we offer endless opportunities for professional development, career progression, and collaboration with some of the brightest minds in the industry. We thrive on creativity, innovation, and a strong team culture that champions fresh ideas and ambitious thinking. If you're looking for a dynamic workplace where no two days are the same, where your contributions truly make an impact, and where you’ll be surrounded by passionate, like-minded individuals – The Commons is the place to be.

About the Role

We are on the lookout for an experienced and enthusiastic Barista/ Cafe All-rounder to help run our Surry Hills Cafe. This role is integral to delivering exceptional culinary experiences while maintaining operational excellence. You’ll be overseeing day-to-day venue operations, ensuring consistent quality and presentation of food & beverages, managing inventory, and work in a collaborative environment.

You’re a proactive team player with strong leadership abilities and proven skills in operations and customer service. You’ll work hands-on with the team to deliver high standards across the board—from recipes and reporting to cleanliness and community engagement. If you’re passionate about hospitality and driven to create memorable food experiences, this is your opportunity to shine.

About You

You’re a detail-oriented, highly organised professional with a background in café, or food and beverage operations. You thrive in fast-paced environments and lead by example on the floor. Your ability to balance customer service, team training, operations, and financial accountability makes you an invaluable asset. You’re excited by the opportunity to contribute to something meaningful and be part of a vibrant workplace community.

The main duties of the role include but are not limited to the below:

Key Responsibilities

Food & Beverage Operations

• Manage daily operations of the cafe including food and beverage production, equipment, and customer service.


• Ensure all food and drinks are prepared to recipe specifications and presented consistently.


• Always maintain adherence to food safety and hygiene practices.


• Minimise and track waste while ensuring accurate cost of goods reporting and recipe builder updates.

Stock & Inventory Management

• Oversee inventory levels and ensure timely ordering of supplies.


• Monitor stock rotation and implement measures to minimise spoilage.


• Maintain clean and organised storage areas, ensuring safe food handling protocols are followed.

Customer Service

• Deliver exceptional customer service with a positive attitude.


• Lead from the front, supporting team members during peak periods and stepping in as needed.


• Proactively address customer inquiries or concerns with professionalism and care.
  

Facilities & Maintenance

• Conduct regular checks to ensure all equipment is maintained and serviced.


• Coordinate with the Facilities Manager and cleaning team to ensure cleanliness and compliance with safety protocols.


• Support audits and take corrective actions where necessary.

Financial Accountability & Reporting

• Take ownership of variable costs including labour and ordering frequency.


• Monitor and manage the venue’s P&L performance.


• Provide accurate end-of-day, weekly, and monthly reports.


• Present financial and operational performance in regular meetings with the National F&B Manager and Finance Team.


• Identify and implement cost-effective improvements.


• Cultivate a collaborative, inclusive, and energised work environment.

Required Skills & Experience

• 2+ years of experience in food and beverage operations or a similar hospitality role.


• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.


• Strong organisational, communication, and multitasking skills.


• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.


• Working knowledge of stock control, recipe management, and equipment maintenance.


• Experience in financial reporting and operational performance tracking.


• Food Safety and WHS understanding essential.


• Physically able to lift up to 20kg and stand for extended periods.

Benefits of working at The Commons

• Free counselling sessions


• Birthday leave


• Quarterly team dinners & generous awards


• Ability to work across different locations


• Birthday & anniversary gifts


• State social committees with monthly events ranging from pub drinks, picnics, bowling, movie screenings and beyond


• Weekly events program e.g. breakfast club, yoga & drinks


• Additional paid maternity leave


• Exclusive annual Halloween party


• Further education program to support personal and professional development

Workplace Health & Safety

• Ensure a safe working environment and compliance with all WHS policies.


• Communicate and educate team members on safety practices.


• Lead by example in maintaining a safety-first mindset.


• Physically able to lift up to 20kg and stand for extended periods.

Values

All actions and behaviours must align with the company’s core values:

• Putting our members first


• Fostering a strong workplace culture


• Collaborating as a team


• Continuously learning and evolving