Shift Lead - Fairfield

Sally’s Apizza•Fairfield, CT

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Daytime Shift Lead plays a key leadership role in ensuring the smooth execution of daytime restaurant operations while upholding the culture, standards, and guest experience that define Sally’s Apizza. This position serves as the on-shift leader responsible for setting the tone of service, maintaining operational consistency, and ensuring that every guest interaction reflects warmth, attentiveness, and the true spirit of hospitality. In addition, the Daytime Shift Lead may serve as the Key Holder, responsible for safely and efficiently opening the restaurant, ensuring operational readiness, and upholding security and cash-handling standards before management arrival.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of restaurant operations and front-of-house procedures.
Proficient in POS systems (Toast or similar).
Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure.
Organized and detail-oriented with a hands-on approach.
Ability to manage priorities and support a fast-paced team environment.
Comfortable making operational decisions and providing clear direction.
Leads pre-shift meetings with clarity and motivation.
Communicates effectively across all levels — hourly team, management, and guests.
Demonstrates honesty, accountability, and fairness in all interactions.
Acts as a role model for professionalism and reliability.
Leads by example through proactive table touches, ensuring guests feel welcomed and attended to.

Responsibilities

Oversee daily operations during assigned daytime shifts to ensure an exceptional guest and team experience
Arrive early to open the restaurant and prepare for service
Unlock doors, disable alarms, and manage safe access using assigned codes and keys
Count and distribute cash drawers and petty cash, reconciling against previous totals
Complete all steps on the opening checklist, ensuring the restaurant is fully operational and guest-ready
Conduct a morning walk through to confirm cleanliness, setup, and maintenance readiness
Ensure TVs, music, lighting, and ambiance are properly set
Print and confirm daily staffing and prep lists
Communicate opening updates or issues to the oncoming manager
Follow all safety and cash handling protocols as trained during opening procedure shadow shifts
Conduct pre-shift meetings with staff to review priorities, updates, and service expectations
Maintain presence on the dining room floor to monitor flow of service, guest satisfaction, and team performance
Understand and manage comps and discounts in accordance with company policy.
Perform manager-level functions in the POS system, including voids, discounts, and time adjustments.
Schedule and track employee breaks to maintain compliance and ensure proper coverage.
Confirm all team members are clocked in/out correctly; process timecard amendments when needed.
Enter shift notes in the closing log to document key updates and operational feedback.
Communicate shift updates, callouts, and incidents to the General Manager or closing manager.
Serve as the primary point of contact for front-of-house staff during daytime hours.
Lead by example, fostering a culture of hospitality, teamwork, and respect.
Address and resolve guest concerns promptly and professionally.
Support training and onboarding of new team members.
Fully understand and embody the Sally’s Apizza culture, including its historical evolution and legacy in New Haven Apizza tradition.
Promote company values through daily actions, communication, and leadership presence.