Head Barista

Common Ground is a bustling, much-loved independent café in Stroud Green, known for exceptional coffee, a globally inspired menu, and a welcoming setting. We care about quality, sustainability, and being part of our community, and we take pride in creating a space where both our team and customers feel at home.

We’re looking for a passionate, skilled, and hands-on Head Barista to lead our coffee offering, train and support our FOH team, and help maintain our reputation for great service.

The Role:

As Head Barista, you’ll be responsible for leading our coffee offer and ensuring we serve consistently excellent drinks. You’ll train and develop the team, take care of our equipment, and work alongside the FOH team to keep service smooth and efficient. This is a hands-on role where teamwork matters—when needed, you’re happy to muck in with the rest of the team, whether that’s helping on the floor or tackling the less glamorous tasks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver consistently high-quality coffee across all shifts.
• Train and coach FOH team members to improve their barista skills.
• Look after our equipment, ensuring it’s well-maintained and respected by the team.
• Support smooth, efficient, and friendly service—especially during busy periods.
• Work collaboratively with the FOH and kitchen teams.
• Bring ideas to improve our drinks menu and help grow our retail coffee sales.

What We’re Looking For:

• Genuine passion for coffee—you love making great coffee and sharing your knowledge.
• At least 3 years of barista experience, ideally with time spent as a Head Barista.
• Strong technical skills—confident with dialling in, troubleshooting, and latte art.
• A great team player—you bring positive energy and work well with others.
• Calm under pressure—able to handle the pace of a busy service.
• Willing to get stuck in—whether that’s running drinks, clearing tables, or helping with cleaning.
• Some bar experience would be a plus, but not essential.

Perks & Benefits:

🌱 Friendly, supportive team culture. ☕ Free food and coffee on shift + 50% discount when off-duty (for you and a friend!). 🚀 Opportunity to shape our coffee offer and contribute to a growing café.

How to Apply:

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you! Send your CV and a short cover note to [email protected] telling us why you’d be a great fit.

Looking forward to hearing from you! 📍 www.commongroundlondon.co.uk 📷 @commongroundlondon