Job Description
Who We Are
Skylark is one of the UK’s fastest-growing specialty coffee roasters but we are also the only one set up as a non-profit. Our mission is to make the coffee supply chain more fair and more transparent, putting people and the planet before profit. We believe coffee is a remarkable product that connects communities across continents—from growers in some of the world’s poorest regions to consumers in more affluent settings. Skylark exists to show how much good we can do when we remove shareholders from the equation and put ethics, people, and transparency at the centre. We generate public conversation around the coffee trade and openly share our business model to inspire change. We’re a diverse and passionate team that cares deeply about each other and the bigger picture.
Why We Are Hiring
We’ve reached an exciting milestone—shipping nearly 2 tonnes of coffee every week—and are now positioned to significantly expand our direct partnerships with producers. To support this growth, we’re hiring our first-ever Operations Manager. Key to the Skylark philosophy of putting people and planet first is minimising waste and maximising efficiency so that more of the benefit goes to farmers while giving cafes and consumers a great deal and our team sustainable and enjoyable employment. This role will be at the heart of that challenge leading our roastery, overseeing fulfilment and logistics, and supporting key operational functions such as HR and finance.
The Role
As Operations Manager, you will:
* Oversee daily operations of our roastery and fulfilment centre.
* Develop systems and processes that enable sustainable growth aligned with our values.
* Manage and support a diverse and neurodiverse team.
* Lead HR, customer service, and administrative functions.
* Collaborate on ethical, transparent approaches to operational challenges.
* Work closely with our finance function to support budgeting and reporting.
This is a role with real scope to shape our operations as we grow—and a chance to demonstrate a new kind of business.
Who We’re Looking For
We're seeking a warm, highly capable team leader who thrives on purpose-driven work and has the practical skills to back it up. You’ll bring experience managing people and processes—and you’ll be excited about contributing to something that’s more than just business as usual.
You’ll likely have:
* A kind, inclusive leadership style—comfortable working with a diverse and international team.
* Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
* Experience overseeing production, stock, and workflows.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
* Flexibility and adaptability to help shape an evolving role.
* Coffee knowledge and/or IT skills are a bonus but not essential.
The Details
* Job Type: Full-time (40 hours per week)
* Salary: £33,000–£39,000, depending on experience
* Location: Skylark Coffee HQ, Brighton
* Reports to: Project Manager (Micah)
Key Responsibilities
* Manage daily roastery operations, stock levels, and safety processes.
* Oversee supplier relationships (especially for packaging and dry goods).
* Coordinate shipping logistics and negotiate with providers.
* Support financial tracking and reporting.
* Lead on HR policies, procedures, and team wellbeing.
* Address customer service issues in collaboration with sales.
* Maintain backend systems related to fulfilment and web orders.
* Co-develop transparent systems for invoicing, labelling, and more.
Benefits
* 25 days holiday + bank holidays + 1 annual retreat day.
* Free coffee at work and 50% off for home use.
* The chance to be part of a values-driven, ambitious team.
* Personal development support and meaningful growth opportunities.