Duty Manager

Duty Manager – Bistro Box, Auckland Airport
Full-time | Auckland Airport (Domestic & International Terminals)

Fresh food, great coffee, and a team that moves fast.

Bistro Box is a homegrown Kiwi grab-and-go business. Since 2022 we’ve been serving fresh food and Coffee Supreme coffee to thousands of travellers across five counters at Auckland Airport. Our food is made fresh daily in our own central kitchen in Onehunga and packed in fully compostable packaging. We’re growing, and we’re looking for a hands-on Duty Manager to lead our airport counters on shift.

About the role

This is a leadership role, not just a supervisory one. You’ll run the floor and make sure every traveller gets fast, friendly service and fresh, well-presented food, whether it’s the 5am rush or a delayed-flight surge. When something goes wrong, like a staff no-show, a late delivery or an unhappy customer, you’ll be the one who steps in, makes the call and sorts it out with confidence. You’ll set the standard by being on the floor and working alongside your team, not directing from the sidelines.

We are looking for someone who is sales-focused and always finding ways to grow the business. That means upselling and suggesting add-ons, keeping cabinets full at peak times, and spotting what customers want. You will also be developing your team: coaching them on the job, building their confidence and skills, and helping your best people step up. All of this happens while you keep the high standards that come with working at Auckland Airport, including food safety, presentation, security and customer service, on every shift.

What you’ll do

• Lead and support the team on shift, including opening and closing
• Act as the Duty Manager on licence and make sure alcohol is sold responsibly and in line with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act
• Solve problems on the spot, including staffing gaps, stock shortages, equipment issues and customer complaints
• Keep cabinets full, fresh and looking great, and manage stock counts and pre-orders with our central kitchen
• Look after food safety, cleanliness and compliance to airport standards
• Handle cash-ups, rosters and breaks
• Train new team members and build a positive, can-do culture
• Report back on sales, wastage and what our customers are asking for

What we’re looking for

• A current NZ Manager’s Certificate (alcohol licence). This is essential.
• At least 2 years’ experience in hospitality or café supervision or management
• A confident problem solver who can think on their feet, make good decisions under pressure and take ownership of the outcome
• Someone who leads by example and is first to jump on the coffee machine, restock a cabinet or help a customer
• Strong barista skills, or a willingness to get there quickly
• Organised and detail-focused, with stock control and food safety know-how
• Available for early starts, weekends and public holidays (airports never sleep!)
• Full NZ work rights
• Able to pass an Auckland Airport ID card / security background check

What’s in it for you

• Pay range, $30-35 per hour
• Staff Discounts and Coffee on shift
• The chance to grow with a business that’s expanding into new sites and products
• A supportive, founder-led team where your ideas are heard

Ready to lead?
Apply with your CV, a copy of your Manager’s Certificate, and a short note telling us about a time you solved a problem on shift. Send it to [email protected]