Job Description

Co-Founder / Director of Operations - Flora Cafe (Toronto)

We're offering

40% equity

in a fully incorporated business with an established legal structure, operational systems in place, and

$75,000 in startup funding underway

.

We're seeking a committed co-founder with a background in hospitality and the ability to take ownership of day-to-day operations and long-term strategy. This is a high-responsibility role for someone ready to lead, invest, and help bring an intentional, plant-based concept to life in one of Toronto's most vibrant neighbourhoods.

About Flora Cafe

Flora Cafe was born out of a need to bring something new to the city. A globally inspired, fully plant-based cafe and bakery built around seasonal, local, and sustainable ingredients, without compromising on quality, experience, or vibe.

Based in Toronto's west end, right in the heart of Trinity Bellwoods, Flora is being built with the neighbourhood in mind. It's a creative, independent part of the city that values thoughtful sourcing, intentional design, and a modern approach to food and hospitality. Flora is designed to meet that.

After years of working in and managing both high-volume and small neighbourhood cafes and bakeries, the founder saw firsthand the daily challenges, operational gaps, and missed opportunities to do things differently. From inconsistent systems to team burnout to lack of creative direction, it became clear what wasn't working. After deep research into margins, systems, management, and brand development, a clear plan was built. One that actually works and steers clear of the usual pitfalls.

As we get closer to launch, we're looking for a like-minded co-founder and partner to join us. If you care about quality, structure, and creative thinking, and you're ready to invest your time, energy, and capital into something real. We're offering 40% equity, with the business already incorporated and the full operational structure in place.

The right person has a background in hospitality, whether that's cafes, bakeries, or kitchen operations, and understands what it takes to lead a team, manage daily flow, and think strategically. This role is for someone who's hands-on, ready to build, and wants real ownership in something built with intention.

Flora Cafe is incorporated in Ontario, with founder shares and legal structure already in place.

What We're Offering

40% equity in a legally incorporated business with a clear structure and strong foundation Full involvement in operations, hiring, systems, and long-term strategy A real partnership with shared leadership and collaborative decision-making No salary until launch; equity and capital contribution reflect ownership and responsibility A build that's already in motion and ready for the right partner to take on Complete financials, operational systems, and launch plan already in place

Role Overview

Lead both the soft and full launch, keeping everything on track from buildout to opening Manage timelines, troubleshoot delays, and stay in close contact with contractors, suppliers, and trades Take ownership of daily operations including kitchen flow, service structure, and team coordination Support hiring and training while also contributing to marketing and creative decisions as the business grows Track budgets, manage costs, and help secure funding when needed Set up all backend systems including scheduling, payroll, ordering, vendor management, and inventory Build a positive, high-functioning team culture from the start with clear communication and accountability Run weekly planning check-ins and keep everything moving forward Step in wherever needed, whether that's admin, floor coverage, prep, or day-to-day problem solving

Qualifications

Minimum 3 years of experience in hospitality, creative direction, and/or operations Confident with budgeting, margins, and cost tracking Prior experience opening or scaling a cafe or bakery is a strong asset Comfortable managing people, systems, and service standards Organized and proactive, but flexible when needed Self-directed and solutions-oriented Comfortable using tools like Google Workspace, Notion, Canva, and basic website platforms such as Shopify and Readymag.

Funding, Investment, and Equity Structure

We're currently securing

$50,000 in funding from Futurpreneur Canada

and pursuing an additional

$25,000 from BDC

. To move forward with the application, we're looking for a co-founder with

strong credit

who can join as a listed partner.

You don't need prior funding experience. We'll go through the process and paperwork together. What matters most is that you're reliable, ready to commit, and meet Futurpreneur's credit criteria.

A capital contribution will also be part of your ownership. We'll review the financial model together and agree on an amount that reflects your equity, role, and long-term involvement.

Equity

: 40% ownership

Vesting

: 4-year reverse vesting with a 1-year cliff and monthly vesting thereafter

Roles

: The founder leads creative direction, branding, and menu development. The co-founder will lead operations, team building, and strategy. Final responsibilities will reflect strengths and capacity

Decision-Making

: All major decisions will be made collaboratively. Each partner fully owns their side

Capital

: An upfront investment is required and tied to ownership and responsibility

Credit Requirement

: You must meet the credit qualifications for Futurpreneur funding
This structure is built to protect both sides, make expectations clear, and build something that actually lasts.

This is a unique opportunity to work directly with an experienced young founder on a creative, forward-thinking project that brings in new perspectives, modern tools, and reflects where the industry is actually heading.

How to Apply

Send a short intro email with your resume and a cover letter. Include a bit about your background, what draws you to this role, and why you're interested in co-founding a business like Flora.

Email: adrianabbastien@gmail.com

Subject:

Co-Founder Application - Flora Cafe

We'll reach out to schedule an initial conversation and go from there.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $42,000.00-$55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company events Discounted or free food Flexible schedule Paid time off Store discount Wellness program Work from home
Ability to commute/relocate:

Toronto, ON M6J 1G3: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Experience:

Hospitality: 2 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person