SOPHIE COTTAM SUTHERLAND
Edinburgh,Midlothian
Summary
I’ve always been passionate about helping others feel supported, understood, and able to reach their potential. My background in both social care and hospitality has given me a strong foundation in communication, patience, and staying calm under pressure, these transferable skills are essential. For several years I worked with the City of Edinburgh Council supporting adults with autism and learning disabilities, many of whom displayed challenging behaviour or required help building independence after long-term hospital stays. I learned how important it is to listen, adapt, and build trust sometimes without words and to approach every situation with empathy and consistency. I also gained experience in medication management, personal care, and using CALM techniques to de-escalate difficult situations safely. That role taught me a lot about emotional regulation, teamwork, and supporting people to make progress at their own pace. More recently, I’ve been working in hospitality as a Barista and Shift Leader at Caffè Nero, and a Cafe Assistant at Company Bakery where I’ve developed my organisational and leadership skills. I enjoy creating a positive atmosphere, managing a team, and making sure things run smoothly in busy, high-pressure environments.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work history
Bakery and Cafe assistant
Company Bakery
Musselburgh, East Lothian
07.2025 - Current
Provide friendly and efficient customer service, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all customers.
Handle cash and card payments accurately and responsibly. Prepare, package, and display bakery products to maintain high presentation and hygiene standards. Work as part of a close-knit team to meet daily targets and ensure smooth operation during busy periods. Support stock management, restocking, and general store maintenance to keep the bakery running efficiently.
Barista / Shift Leader
Caffè Nero
07.2024 - 11.2025
- - Handle money and process transactions efficiently.
- - Provide excellent customer service, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere.
- - Oversee store presentation, cleanliness, and product display.
- - Manage shifts, ensuring smooth operation and teamwork.
- - Prepare and serve high-quality coffee and beverages.
Support Worker
City of Edinburgh Council
05.2021 - 06.2024
- - Delivered personalized care services based on individual needs.
- - Promoted dignity and well-being for service users and their families.
- - Maintained accurate case records and reports.
- - Communicated effectively, adapting styles for diverse clients, including non-verbal individuals.
- - Advocated for service users to ensure their needs were met with respect and kindness.
- - Trained in medication management, including dispensing and auditing, always ensuring compliance with legislation and best practices.
Café Assistant
Oban Chocolate Company
09.2019 - 09.2020
- - Provided friendly and efficient customer service.
- - Maintained store cleanliness and hygiene.
- - Assisted with menu presentation and product preparation.
Waitress
Oban Fish and Chip Shop
07.2018 - 08.2019
- - Took orders, served food, and handled payments.
- - Maintained cleanliness and food hygiene standards.
- - Provided excellent customer service in a busy restaurant setting.
Education
References
Aimi, Crocket, Senior Support Worker, Aimi.crocket@edinburgh.gov.uk, 07719797085, Castle Crags, Most Recent Employer
Work-Related Training
- - Medication Management Training (including dispensing and auditing)
- - CALM (Crisis and Aggression Limitation and Management) Training
- - Epilepsy Training
- - Manual Moving and Handling Training
Timeline
Bakery and Cafe assistant
Company Bakery
07.2025 - Current
Barista / Shift Leader
Caffè Nero
07.2024 - 11.2025
Support Worker
City of Edinburgh Council
05.2021 - 06.2024
Café Assistant
Oban Chocolate Company
09.2019 - 09.2020
Waitress
Oban Fish and Chip Shop
07.2018 - 08.2019