The Head Barista position at Black Sheep Coffee is more than just pulling espresso shots — it’s about leading a team, delivering exceptional customer service, maintaining high-quality drink standards, and fostering a fun and high-performing café culture. As a Head Barista, you’ll supervise junior baristas, train new team members, manage stock levels, and uphold health and safety protocols. With Black Sheep Coffee’s emphasis on bold branding and a disruptive approach to the coffee industry, this leadership role is both dynamic and rewarding.
Average salary for a Head Barista at Black Sheep Coffee in the UK ranges from £24,000 to £28,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and store performance bonuses. For candidates looking to grow into management or operations, this role offers a solid pathway.
Top 20 Black Sheep Coffee Head Barista Interview Questions and Sample Answers
1. Tell us about your experience in coffee or hospitality.
Sample answer: I’ve worked in specialty coffee for over four years, most recently as a senior barista at [previous café]. I have experience with espresso calibration, latte art, and training new hires, which has prepared me to lead a team and maintain consistency during busy shifts.
2. Why do you want to work for Black Sheep Coffee?
Sample answer: I admire Black Sheep’s bold approach to coffee culture and sustainability, especially their mission to leave the herd behind. I’m drawn to your energy and commitment to doing things differently, and I’d be proud to contribute as a team leader.
3. How do you ensure coffee consistency across shifts?
Sample answer: I make sure calibration is done at the start of every shift, document grind size changes, and check shot times regularly. I also train baristas to taste and recognize flavor balance, so quality is maintained even during peak hours.
4. Describe your leadership style.
Sample answer: I lead by example, staying calm under pressure and encouraging open communication. I also provide regular feedback and love recognizing achievements, which keeps morale and performance high.
5. What would you do if a barista was underperforming?
Sample answer: I’d start with a private conversation to understand the root cause—whether it’s skill-based or personal. Then I’d offer support through additional training or mentoring, while setting clear expectations for improvement.
6. How do you handle a long customer queue and short staff?
Sample answer: I prioritize communication with the team, streamline the menu if possible, and jump in to assist wherever needed. I keep customers informed with a friendly attitude to reduce frustration and manage expectations.
7. Can you describe your approach to training new baristas?
Sample answer: I break down training into manageable steps: machinery, drinks, workflow, and customer interaction. I use positive reinforcement and shadowing, followed by hands-on learning and regular check-ins.
8. What’s your favorite coffee drink to make and why?
Sample answer: I enjoy making a flat white because it requires precision and gives me a chance to showcase my latte art while balancing the flavors of espresso and milk perfectly.
9. How do you manage hygiene and cleanliness in a busy café?
Sample answer: I implement a cleaning rota, delegate tasks, and do regular walk-throughs to ensure hygiene standards are met. I also instill a culture where everyone takes responsibility for a clean space.
10. Tell us about a time you handled a difficult customer.
Sample answer: A customer once complained about a cold drink. I listened calmly, apologized, and replaced the drink immediately. I also offered a voucher as a goodwill gesture, which turned the situation around.
11. What’s your understanding of Black Sheep Coffee’s brand?
Sample answer: It’s bold, rebellious, and community-driven. The brand champions innovation, from their coffee origins to their social missions, like supporting homeless people through employment programs.
12. How do you keep your team motivated during slow or tough shifts?
Sample answer: I like to inject energy with upbeat music, small competitions (like latte art challenges), and by celebrating small wins. I always keep the atmosphere positive.
13. Describe your knowledge of espresso machine maintenance.
Sample answer: I regularly backflush machines, clean group heads and steam wands, and report technical issues promptly. I also guide the team in daily and weekly cleaning protocols.
14. What KPIs would you monitor as a Head Barista?
Sample answer: Drink quality, customer satisfaction, speed of service, wastage levels, and team performance. These metrics help improve both service and profitability.
15. How would you manage stock and ordering?
Sample answer: I track usage trends, log daily waste, and use par levels to ensure we don’t over- or under-order. I coordinate with suppliers and rotate stock based on freshness and expiry dates.
16. What steps would you take to open and close the café efficiently?
Sample answer: I follow a structured checklist—machine prep, stock count, cash handling, and cleanliness. For closing, I ensure thorough cleaning, machine shutdown, and inventory checks for the next day.
17. How would you train staff on new drink items or seasonal menus?
Sample answer: I’d first master the recipe myself, then host a tasting session with clear instructions and hands-on practice. I’d provide printed guides and encourage feedback.
18. How do you handle conflict between team members?
Sample answer: I address it quickly and neutrally, facilitating a conversation between the parties. I focus on solutions and mutual respect to restore team harmony.
19. What do you do to stay updated with coffee trends?
Sample answer: I attend local cuppings, follow specialty coffee blogs and YouTube channels, and test new brew methods at home. I also engage with barista communities on social media.
20. What would you bring to Black Sheep Coffee as a Head Barista?
Sample answer: I bring leadership, deep coffee knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction. I also thrive under pressure and genuinely enjoy mentoring others in a high-energy environment.
Final tips and encouragement for your Black Sheep Coffee interview
Walking into an interview for a Head Barista role can feel intimidating—but remember, confidence comes from preparation. Review the job description, practice your answers aloud, and learn a bit about Black Sheep Coffee’s brand and mission. Don’t just focus on your coffee knowledge—highlight your leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, which are key to this role.
Bring energy, enthusiasm, and authenticity. Employers aren’t just hiring skills—they’re hiring culture fit and leadership potential. Be honest, show your passion for coffee, and let your personality shine.
Good luck—you’ve got this!
