Job Opportunity: Shift Lead – Nando’s
Location: Empangeni, South Africa
Employment Type: Permanent
Closing Date: 28 October 2025
Reference Number: 1000054
Nando’s, one of South Africa’s most iconic and fast-growing restaurant chains, is offering an exciting opportunity for an experienced and passionate individual to join their team as a Shift Lead in Empangeni. This position is ideal for someone who not only understands the fast-paced restaurant environment but thrives in it, using both leadership and operational skills to deliver exceptional service and results.
As part of Nando’s commitment to employment equity, preference will be given to historically disadvantaged South Africans, in line with their Affirmative Action and Employment Equity Policy.
✅ Minimum Requirements:
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for the role:
- Matric (Grade 12) qualification
- A minimum of 2 to 3 years’ experience in a restaurant management or supervisory role
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, etc.)
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in administrative tasks
- Proven ability to lead and manage a team
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Solid understanding of restaurant operations, including compliance, stock control, customer service, and financial processes
Preferred Qualifications:
- More than 3 years’ experience in restaurant or food service management
- A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
Key Responsibilities:
The Shift Lead will work closely with the Restaurant Manager to oversee the daily operations of the restaurant, ensure that company standards are met, and drive the overall success of the business. In the absence of the Restaurant Manager, the Shift Lead will be responsible for managing the restaurant independently.
1. Financial Management
- Ensure financial procedures are correctly followed according to Nando’s policies
- Assist in managing operational costs, stock control, waste reduction, and preventing losses due to pilferage
- Support the achievement of business performance indicators such as:
- Year-on-year sales
- Gross profit margins
- Ticket average
- Customer counts
- Labour turnover and payroll efficiency
- Help implement corrective actions to improve financial performance when needed
2. Operational Management
- Maintain high standards of hygiene, cleanliness, health, and safety by performing daily compliance checks
- Ensure proper stock rotation and monitor inventory levels to avoid shortages or overstocking
- Report and escalate issues related to maintenance and repairs
- Promote compliance with Nando’s operating standards and health regulations
- Work towards achieving excellent audit results (internal and external)
3. People Management
- Assist in weekly staff rosters and ensure optimal shift coverage
- Support staff recruitment, onboarding, training, and development
- Monitor staff performance and ensure adherence to opening and closing procedures
- Maintain accurate attendance records
- Provide continuous feedback to team members and escalate performance concerns where necessary
- Encourage a positive, motivating team culture while maintaining discipline and productivity
4. Marketing and Customer Service
- Help implement and promote local, regional, and national marketing campaigns
- Respond effectively to customer complaints according to Nando’s policies
- Strive to improve customer experience through excellent service and staff engagement
- Participate in the development and execution of local marketing initiatives to drive foot traffic and build a loyal customer base
- Review and act on feedback from mystery shopper reports to improve customer satisfaction
Why Join Nando’s?
Nando’s is more than just a restaurant brand — it’s a people-focused, values-driven business that believes in growing leaders, fostering community, and having fun while delivering excellent service. As a Shift Lead, you’ll be empowered to lead with passion, build your career, and make a difference in the lives of your team and your customers.
If you have the fire in your belly, a passion for hospitality, and the leadership skills to drive success — then this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
How to Apply:
To apply for this position, please follow the steps below:
- Visit the Nando’s Careers Page at: https://nandos.co.za/careers
- Search for Reference No: 1000054
- Submit your CV and any supporting documents online
- Applications must be submitted before 28 October 2025
Don’t miss this chance to join the Nando’s family and be part of something extraordinary. Apply now and bring your passion, purpose, and leadership to one of South Africa’s most vibrant restaurant brands.