Duty Manager / Assistant Manager - Hospitality Operations at M&S Café

About the Role and Company

Al-Futtaim Group, a well-established and diversified organization since the 1930s, operates across five sectors including automotive, financial services, real estate, retail, and healthcare, with over 35,000 employees in more than 20 countries. The Duty Manager role focuses on overseeing the daily functioning of the Marks & Spencer Café, ensuring premium customer service, top food quality, safety standards, and operational effectiveness in Dubai, UAE.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the café team through coaching, motivation, and performance management to maintain high service standards.
• Manage daily café operations, including opening/closing duties, cash handling, staffing, and operational compliance.
• Provide exceptional customer experiences by resolving issues promptly and encouraging a welcoming environment.
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations, hygiene standards, and company policies including HACCP and municipal guidelines.
• Maintain inventory through diligent stock management, ordering, and waste minimization applying FIFO principles.
• Drive sales growth and commercial performance through upselling, promotions, and monitoring financial metrics like food costs and labor productivity.
• Ensure health, safety, and operational excellence by conducting audits, safety inspections, and maintaining equipment standards.

Required Skills and Experience

• Proven leadership and people management capabilities within hospitality or retail food services.
• Comprehensive understanding of food safety, HACCP, and municipal food regulations.
• Strong business acumen including sales analytics, cost control, labour planning, and waste reduction.
• Effective communication skills and proficiency with Microsoft Excel and POS systems.
• Experience working in fast-paced hospitality environments with a focus on customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related fields preferred.
• 4 to 6 years’ experience in hospitality or food retail, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Capability to handle flexible work hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Additional Information

Al-Futtaim Retail operates major brands including IKEA, ACE, Toys R Us, Inditex Group brands, and Marks & Spencer across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. This role offers the opportunity to join a large multinational firm emphasizing growth, diversity, and innovation in retail hospitality.