Barista
Yuta Namekawa
"思いやりを忘れずに、
優しさと厳しさの共存した
チームビルディングを目指しています"
ーー What inspired you to work at SG Group?
I was introduced to SG Group by Takayuki Ishitani, the head barista at ASH, and Shuichi Ofuchi, the head bartender. Having always worked as barista, I developed an interest in coffee cocktails but felt that my bartending skills were my weak point. I believed that at ASH, where I could learn both coffee and cocktails, I would have the opportunity to grow significantly, which led to my decision to join.
ーー What is your current role and responsibilities?
I am the manager at ASH Cafe & Bar, working as both a barista and bartender. My responsibilities include making coffee and cocktails, creating shift schedules, training staff, and managing store operations. My job allows me to interact with customers and staff in various meaningful ways.
ーー What is important to you in your work?
I value attentiveness and empathy. Making coffee and cocktails requires craftsmanship, but it also demands the skills of a service person and entertainer. To delight customers, it's crucial to anticipate their needs with thoughtful service. I always strive to be attentive and proactive in my actions. For our customers' smiles, it's essential to ensure our staff are also happy. I aim to build a team characterized by a balance of kindness and dedication.
ーー What makes SG Group attractive?
The relentless pursuit of excellence! Our team continually strives to innovate and create, whether through healthy competition or mutual support. At SG Group, you're encouraged to take on new challenges and learn new things, helping you discover aspects of yourself you never knew.
Personal Bio
After graduating from university, I went to Sydney, Australia, for a language study program. Inspired by the coffee culture I encountered there, I embarked on a career in coffee. With 11 years of experience as a barista and roaster, I joined SG Group in 2022. I specialize in understanding coffee flavors and translating them into roasting and brewing profiles. Currently, I serve as the manager and barista at æ (ASH), a café bar focused on a zero-waste concept.