Bakery Manager

Position Summary

The Bakery Manager is responsible for leading all aspects of the Bakery Department, including customer service, production, merchandising, inventory management, sales growth, profitability, food safety, and team development. This position ensures high-quality bakery products are available and presented to company standards while creating an exceptional shopping experience and achieving departmental financial goals.

Key Responsibilities Customer Service & Sales

• Deliver outstanding customer service and foster a customer-focused culture.
• Assist customers with product selection, special orders, custom cakes, and bakery recommendations.
• Resolve customer concerns promptly and professionally.
• Drive sales through effective merchandising, promotional displays, seasonal programs, and holiday events.
• Ensure bakery cases and displays remain appealing, fully stocked, and reflective of quality standards.

Department Operations

• Oversee daily bakery operations, including production, packaging, merchandising, inventory, and ordering.
• Ensure bakery products are prepared, decorated, packaged, and displayed according to company standards.
• Monitor inventory levels to maintain product availability while minimizing waste and shrink.
• Ensure proper product rotation, freshness, code date compliance, and quality standards.
• Maintain accurate pricing, signage, and promotional execution.
• Coordinate production schedules to meet customer demand and maximize efficiency.

Leadership & Team Development

• Recruit, train, coach, and develop Bakery Department associates.
• Create schedules that support operational needs while effectively managing labor costs.
• Provide ongoing performance feedback, coaching, and recognition.
• Foster a positive work environment focused on teamwork, accountability, and respect.
• Ensure all associates understand and follow company policies, food safety requirements, and operational procedures.

Merchandising & Product Quality

• Maintain attractive bakery displays that drive customer engagement and sales.
• Execute merchandising plans for holidays, seasonal events, and promotional programs.
• Monitor product quality and presentation standards throughout the department.
• Ensure specialty items, cakes, breads, pastries, and other bakery products meet established quality expectations.
• Identify opportunities to improve product assortment and sales performance.

Financial Management

• Manage department sales, gross profit, labor, shrink, and operating expenses.
• Review department reports and key performance indicators to identify trends and opportunities.
• Develop and implement action plans to achieve sales and profitability objectives.
• Ensure accurate inventory practices and support physical inventory processes.
• Control waste and expenses while maintaining service and quality standards.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, health, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor proper food handling, storage, labeling, temperature control, and cleaning procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.
• Conduct routine inspections and address food safety concerns promptly.
• Ensure all department practices comply with company policies and procedures.

Safety & Asset Protection

• Promote a safe working environment for employees and customers.
• Ensure proper operation and maintenance of bakery equipment.
• Follow accident prevention and incident reporting procedures.
• Support loss prevention and shrink reduction initiatives.
• Ensure equipment and work areas are maintained in a safe and efficient condition.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous bakery, food service, or retail management experience required.
• Knowledge of bakery production, decorating, merchandising, and food safety practices.
• Strong leadership, customer service, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry products weighing up to 50 pounds regularly and more with assistance when necessary.
• Ability to work around ovens, mixers, proofers, refrigeration equipment, and other bakery machinery.
• Ability to safely handle bakery tools, equipment, and supplies.

Desired Competencies

• Leadership and team development
• Customer focus
• Bakery production and merchandising expertise
• Food safety and sanitation knowledge
• Financial and operational management
• Communication and collaboration
• Organization and attention to detail
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Accountability and adaptability

The Bakery Manager plays a key role in delivering fresh, high-quality bakery products, exceptional customer service, and operational excellence while developing a high-performing team and achieving department sales and profitability objectives.

      ·    Access to up to 50% of your earned wages before payday, via our partnership with Stream