Pottery Café Manager (Kingston)
Bonbon Pottery is a vibrant and creative Pottery Cafe where art meets community. We offer a welcoming space for all ages to enjoy DIY ceramic painting, hands-on pottery classes, and great coffee.
We usually respond within a week
Position Overview
We are looking for a hands-on Manager to oversee the day-to-day running of a busy pottery café.
This role focuses on operational execution, staff management, and customer experience. You will be responsible for ensuring the studio runs smoothly during opening hours, staff are supported and accountable, and customers have a well-organised, enjoyable visit.
This is a practical, floor-based role suited to someone comfortable making decisions, managing people, and keeping operations running consistently.
Key Responsibilities
Daily Operations
Oversee the day-to-day running of the studio during opening hours
Ensure smooth customer flow, bookings, and session turnover
Resolve operational issues promptly and calmly
Staff Management
Create and manage staff rotas and shift coverage
Lead and support front-of-house staff during service
Address lateness, performance issues, and conduct fairly and consistently
Support onboarding and training of new staff
Customer Experience
Ensure a welcoming, organised experience for all customers
Handle customer questions, feedback, and complaints professionally
Standards & Organisation
Ensure procedures are followed consistently
Maintain cleanliness, organisation, and presentation of the studio
Monitor stock levels and flag ordering needs
Maintain clear handovers and basic documentation
Owner Support
Escalate significant issues appropriately
Reduce the need for owner involvement in day-to-day operations
What We’re Looking For
Essential
Previous experience managing a café, studio, or similar customer-facing business
Confidence managing people and making day-to-day decisions
Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
Calm, professional approach in a busy environment
Clear communication skills
Desirable
Experience with rotas, bookings, or scheduling systems
Experience in hospitality or experience-based businesses
Comfortable being hands-on and leading by example
- Department
- Front of House
- Locations
- Kingston upon Thames
About Bonbon Pottery
Founded in London, Bonbon Pottery is a space where craftsmanship meets comfort. Our pottery studio handcrafts unique ceramics, runs fun and inspiring workshops, and collaborates with brands on bespoke projects. Next door, our pottery café offers a cosy setting where guests can enjoy coffee, cake, and community.
Our mission is to make creativity accessible and enjoyable for everyone, whether they’re sipping a latte surrounded by handmade mugs or trying their hand at throwing clay for the first time. Every team member plays an important part in delivering this mission, and we value everyone’s contribution.