Manager in Training

Gelati Celesti · Richmond, VA · 1 mo ago

Human Resources$20–$23/hrFull-time

About the role

The Manager in Training (MIT) program at Gelati Celesti is a structured, hands-on pathway designed to develop the next generation of General Managers from the inside out. This is not a shadow program. From day one, you will be working - scooping, leading shifts, learning our operations, and building the skills and relationships that will make you a great GM. You will rotate through our regional locations across Hampton Roads and Richmond, working alongside experienced General Managers who will serve as your mentors and guide your development at every stage.

Responsibilities

Work every front-line role alongside your team - scooping, serving, and holding the brand standards that make Gelati Celesti great.
Learn product knowledge inside and out: flavors, ingredients, allergens, portioning, and how to talk about what we make with genuine pride.
Master opening and closing procedures, daily cleaning and sanitation standards, and the routines that keep a store running smoothly.
Progress into running shifts - supervising team members, managing the floor, and taking accountability for the guest experience during your time on.
Practice real-time coaching: giving feedback, redirecting behavior, and holding standards with the team in the moment.
Learn cash handling, daily sales reporting, and end-of-day reconciliation.
Learn the full scope of GM responsibilities alongside your mentor: hiring, onboarding, scheduling, inventory, ordering, and vendor management.
Develop a working understanding of store financials - how to read a labor report, manage food costs, and connect daily decisions to store performance.
Lead hiring conversations and onboard new team members with GM guidance, building the skills you will use as a GM every week.
Rotate through multiple locations across both markets to experience different store dynamics, team cultures, and operational challenges.
Build relationships with GMs and Retail Leaders across the organization - the network you build as an MIT will serve you well as a GM.

Mentor Partnership

You will be paired with a mentor General Manager who is invested in your growth and will be a consistent presence throughout your program. Your mentor GM will work alongside you on the floor, give you real feedback, and help you navigate the challenges of learning to lead. You will also have regular check-ins with your Retail Leader to track your progress, talk through what is working, and plan your next steps. You will never wonder where you stand or what is expected; we will make that clear from day one and keep the conversation going throughout.

Qualifications

A genuine desire to grow into a General Manager role - this is a real commitment, and we want people who are serious about it.
Prior experience in a customer-facing role, preferably in food service, retail, or hospitality.
Strong interpersonal skills - you connect with people easily, earn trust quickly, and communicate clearly.
Reliable, accountable, and self-motivated - you show up, follow through, and do not need to be micromanaged.
Flexible availability including nights, weekends, and holidays as required by store operations.
Willingness to travel and rotate between Hampton Roads and Richmond locations throughout the program.

Skills

Customer service orientation.
Teamwork and collaboration.
Problem-solving and decision-making.
Time management and organization.
Communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

Commensurate with experience.

Pay

$20.00 - $23.00 per hour

Schedule

Night shifts and weekends are required.

About Gelati Celesti

Equal Opportunity Employer

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.