Emeryville - General Manager

As a General Manager at Philz Coffee, your main responsibilities would include providing frontline leadership to your team, managing the financial performance of the store, and ensuring adherence to our core values. You'll be creating an engaging work environment, setting performance goals for team members, and training future leaders within the community-focused culture we cherish.

To qualify for the General Manager role at Philz Coffee, you should have at least 3 years of experience in a fast-paced, customer service-oriented environment, preferably in retail or food service. Demonstrated experience in managing P&L, recruiting and developing talent, and creating an inclusive team atmosphere are essential qualifications to thrive in this role.

Philz Coffee is committed to the professional development of its General Managers by providing training opportunities that align with our core values. We focus on developing leadership skills, enhancing customer service, and ensuring that you have the tools needed to maximize the success of your store and team members.

As a General Manager at Philz Coffee, you can expect a competitive hourly rate, participation in a bonus program based on individual and company performance, and a wide range of benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, and generous discounts on beverages and beans. We also champion work-life balance with flexible schedules and ample vacation time.

While previous experience as a barista can certainly be beneficial for a General Manager position at Philz Coffee, it is not a requirement. What matters most is your passion for customer service, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to building community. We believe that the right attitude and willingness to learn is key to success in this role.

To enhance the customer experience at Philz Coffee, I would focus on training my team to consistently deliver excellent service while ensuring they embody the Philz Core Values. Gathering customer feedback, recognizing regulars, and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere would be pivotal in making each visit memorable.

I believe in leading by example and fostering open communication. I would implement regular check-ins with the team to discuss their goals, recognize achievements, and address any challenges. Creating a positive work environment where team members feel valued is crucial for motivation.

In a previous role, I encountered a situation where a team member was consistently underperforming. I approached the situation by having a private conversation to understand their perspective. Together, we set clear expectations and a plan for improvement, which ultimately led to their success within the team. Communication and empathy are key.

Tracking key financial metrics such as sales growth, operating costs, gross profit margins, and labor costs is essential for maintaining profitability. I would analyze these metrics regularly to identify trends, areas for improvement, and to make informed decisions that drive financial success.

To ensure inclusivity, I would emphasize the importance of diverse hiring practices, promote a culture of openness and respect, and provide necessary training focused on teamwork and inclusion. Creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued is vital to team dynamics.

Maintaining team morale during busy periods is essential. I would ensure clear communication of expectations, provide adequate support during peak hours, and recognize outstanding efforts publicly. Celebrating small wins and fostering teamwork can significantly improve morale.

When handling customer complaints, I approach them with empathy and a solution-oriented mindset. I would listen actively to the customer's concerns, apologize for any inconvenience, and take immediate steps to resolve the issue while ensuring they feel heard and valued.

In my first month as General Manager, I would prioritize building strong relationships with my team and understanding store operations. I would assess the current performance, customer feedback, and team dynamics to identify areas for improvement and establish a plan for success.

I envision contributing to Philz Coffee's community-focused mission by actively engaging in local events and initiatives that align with our values. Building partnerships with community organizations can help strengthen relationships, promote our brand, and enhance our presence in the community.

Data plays a crucial role in my management style, as it helps inform decisions and drive performance. I regularly analyze sales data, customer feedback, and operational metrics to make strategic adjustments that enhance both customer satisfaction and team efficiency.