Assistant Cluster Manager

Job Title: Cluster Manager

Company: Chai Point

Location: Pune

Role Summary

As a Cluster Operations Manager in Chai Points VaaS (Vending as a Service) business, you will lead operations for a portfolio of Chai Point vending machines deployed across corporate parks, offices, and other commercial spaces. You will be responsible for ensuring high uptime, replenishment efficiency, quality assurance, and team productivity to deliver a seamless customer experience.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Oversight

• Manage 250–500 chai & beverage vending machines within the cluster
  
• Ensure optimal uptime, machine hygiene, and regular replenishment of raw materials like tea premix, milk, and cups
  
• Conduct routine audits on product quality, cleanliness, and machine functionality.
  

Team & Vendor Management

• Supervise a team of Lead partners, technicians and Partners working at client locations.
  
• Optimize refill and service routes using route planning tools.
  
• Coordinate with backend support, maintenance, and logistics for smooth operations.
  

Client Servicing

• Act as the key point of contact for corporate clients within the cluster.
  
• Ensure timely grievance redressal, issue resolution, and SLA compliance.
  
• Build strong on-ground relationships to ensure client retention and satisfaction.
  

Inventory & Wastage Management

• Track usage of raw materials and consumables per machine and per site.
  
• Minimize wastage through data-based replenishment and predictive restocking.
  
• Maintain buffer stock levels at site and cluster hubs.
  

Data Reporting & Insights

• Monitor daily operations and revenue dashboards
  
• Report on uptime %, refill cycle frequency, complaint TATs, and sales throughput.
  
• Use data insights to drive operational improvements and reduce costs.
  

• Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Hospitality, Operations or Engineering)
  
• 8–10 years of experience in vending machine operations, QSR, or logistics-intensive industries
  
• Experience in managing geographically distributed field teams
  

• Team and performance management
  
• Client relationship management
  
• Inventory control & forecasting
  
• Data analysis (Excel/ERP/IoT dashboards)
  
• Strong problem-solving and on-ground decision-making abilities