Production Manager
Company Overview
Your Bread Box, an esteemed Ottawa-based sourdough bread company, is dedicated to crafting delectable and nutritious gourmet bread using locally sourced ingredients. With a focus on wholesaling to local eateries, cafes, and retailers, alongside direct sales at farmers' markets and individual orders, we epitomize quality and authenticity in every loaf we bake. Our commitment to traditional methods and premium local ingredients sets us apart, resulting in flavorful bread that delights the senses.
As we continue to expand, we are looking for an experienced Production Manager to lead our kitchen team, streamline production, and maintain the highest quality standards.
Position Overview
We are seeking a hands-on, organized, and results-driven Production Manager to oversee all aspects of sourdough bread production. This person will be responsible for ensuring efficient workflows, maintaining product consistency, managing a team of bakers, and optimizing production to meet growing demand. The ideal candidate is a problem solver, adaptable under pressure, and willing to go the extra mile when necessary—including staying late or working weekends when needed to meet production numbers.
Additionally, this role involves working closely with the owner to interview, hire, and build a strong bakery team that aligns with the company’s vision and production goals.
Key Responsibilities
1. Production Management
- Oversee daily production schedules to ensure all breads are made efficiently and on time.
- Maintain high-quality standards for all sourdough products, ensuring consistency in fermentation, shaping, and baking.
- Troubleshoot production issues and find quick, effective solutions to keep operations running smoothly.
- Implement best practices in artisan baking to maximize efficiency without sacrificing quality.
- Work with the owner to plan seasonal and specialty bread offerings.
2. Team Leadership & Staff Management
- Lead, train, and supervise a team of bakers and kitchen staff, ensuring they work efficiently and professionally.
- Work with the owner to recruit, interview, and hire new bakery team members.
- Set clear expectations and hold staff accountable for performance and productivity.
- Foster a positive and motivated work environment while ensuring professional boundaries are maintained.
- Manage staff scheduling to ensure proper coverage for production needs.
3. Problem-Solving & Adaptability
- Stay calm under pressure and find practical solutions when unexpected challenges arise.
- Be willing to work late or on weekends when necessary to ensure production numbers are met.
- Take ownership of production, ensuring operations run smoothly even during busy or difficult periods.
4. Quality Control & Food Safety
- Ensure all breads meet the bakery’s high-quality standards in taste, texture, and appearance.
- Enforce food safety regulations, cleanliness, and proper handling of ingredients.
- Maintain compliance with all health and safety regulations.
5. Inventory & Cost Management
- Monitor ingredient usage and minimize waste to improve cost efficiency.
- Order and manage inventory of flour, starter, and other baking ingredients.
- Maintain relationships with suppliers to ensure consistency and quality of ingredients.
6. Equipment & Facility Management
- Ensure all kitchen equipment is maintained and functioning properly.
- Work with the owner to identify and recommend upgrades or repairs as needed.
Qualifications & Skills
- Minimum 3-5 years of experience in a commercial or artisan bakery, preferably in a leadership role.
- Strong understanding of sourdough fermentation, shaping, and baking processes.
- Experience managing a team and holding staff accountable for performance.
- Proven ability to problem-solve, take initiative, and adapt under pressure.
- Willingness to work extra hours when needed to meet production goals.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to challenges.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.
- Passion for artisan bread and commitment to quality.
Work Schedule & Compensation
- Full-time position with early morning and weekend shifts as needed.
- Flexibility required to accommodate high-demand periods.
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Employee discounts on baked goods.
- Opportunity to be part of a growing and dynamic bakery.
How to Apply
If you are a dedicated, results-driven bakery professional ready to take on the challenge of running a high-volume sourdough production, we’d love to hear from you! Send your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your experience to hr@yourbreadbox.ca