General Manager- Latte' Life

Job Title: General Manager

Department: Latte Life

Reports To: COO

Supervises: Trainee’s

FLSA: Exempt

Pay Starting 55K + DOE

Summary

The General Manager (GM) is responsible for leading all operations of Life Unlimited‘s coffee shop “Latte Life” while also serving as an on-site trainer for individuals with disabilities participating in our barista academy and workforce development program.

Basic Functions And General Responsibilities

• Coffee Shop Operations
• Oversee all daily operations of the coffee shop, including opening/closing procedures.
• Ensure high standards for beverage and food preparation, product quality, customer service, and store cleanliness.
• Manage inventory, ordering, vendor relations, and cost control.
• Maintain compliance with health, safety, food handling, and licensing regulations.
• Implement and refine operational systems, checklists, schedules, and workflows.
• Ensure the coffee shop environment reflects Life Unlimited’s mission of inclusion and community.
• Workforce Development & Training
• Provide hands-on training and job coaching to individuals with disabilities working or training in the coffee shop.
• Teach the skills for trainees to acquire some of the academy’s goals of: barista certification, customer service, food handling license and food preparation, inventory, POS systems competency, cleaning tasks, and workplace readiness.
• Work closely with Employment Services to:
• Develop participant training plans and goals
• Track progress and document skill development
• Identify long-term employment opportunities in the community
• Promote person-centered practices and positive, respectful communication.
• Maintain supportive learning environment where trainees feel valued, safe, and confident.
• Staff Leadership & Culture
• Create a culture of teamwork, respect, accountability, and mission alignment.
• Provide coaching, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities.
• Schedule trainees and ensure adequate coverage for all operating hours.
• Model strong customer service, empathy, and inclusive leadership at all times.
• Financial & Business Management
• Maintain accurate daily, weekly, and monthly financial records.
• Monitor and achieve sales targets, cost controls, labor efficiency, and other KPIs.
• Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and pricing strategies.
• Identify opportunities to improve revenue, reduce waste, and increase overall sustainability.
• Track training hours and productivity in alignment with grant or program reporting needs.
• Community Engagement & Mission Advancement
• Represent Latte Life and Life Unlimited’s mission to customers, partners, donors, and the broader community.
• Support marketing initiatives, special events, social media content, and storytelling that highlight workforce development success.
• Build positive relationships with local businesses, schools, volunteer groups, and potential employer partners.
• Promote the shop as a community hub that demonstrates the capabilities and contributions of people with disabilities.
• All Other Duties Assigned.
  

Physical Expectations

This position requires extended periods of walking and standing with some periods of sitting – depending on the needs and activities of the individuals supported. It may require light to heavy lifting and occasional stooping, kneeling, bending, and/or climbing stairs again depending on the needs of the individual supported. The position will require occasional physical intervention if confronted by a person displaying combative or potentially dangerous behavior.

Working Conditions

Full-time on-site role; may require early mornings, evenings, weekends, or special events. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time. Fast-paced environment with frequent interaction with customers and trainees.

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in coffee shop, café, or food service management.
• Strong barista skills and knowledge of beverage preparation and quality standards.
• Experience training, coaching, or mentoring others.
• Ability to work respectfully and effectively with individuals with disabilities.
• Knowledge of food safety, retail operations, cash handling, and health regulations.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and customer service skills.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Must obtain a Class E driver’s license during new hire orientation– must carry minimum coverage applicable by law for auto insurance
• Must Receive Seasonal Flu Vaccination
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in workforce development, job coaching, or vocational training.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities, especially in a community-based or supportive employment setting.
• Nonprofit or social enterprise background.
• ServSafe Manager certification.
• Experience with scheduling and POS systems.
  
  

Equal Opportunity Employer