We are a well-established, independent bakery trading for 40 years and specialising in traditional, speciality and artisan breads, cakes and savoury products. Our business operates across retail shops, markets, events, delivery and outside catering, and has grown significantly in recent years.
We are now seeking an experienced and hands-on General Manager to take full responsibility for the day-to-day running and continued development of the business. This is a senior, all-round role requiring strong commercial awareness, operational control and leadership. It is not an office-based position and the successful candidate will spend the vast majority of their time leading the team and generating sales with excellent customer service together with hands on engagement where necessary with Bakery Production.
You will be responsible for driving performance across all areas of the business, improving systems and processes, managing and developing staff, and ensuring high standards of product quality, compliance and customer service are consistently delivered.
This is a demanding and varied position suited to someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is confident taking ownership of both strategic direction and daily operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee all aspects of daily operations across retail sales, production and general catering management
- Drive sales growth while maintaining tight control of costs and margins
- Lead, manage and develop the team, including recruitment and training
- Improve efficiency, systems and overall business performance
- Maintain high standards of customer service and product quality
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene and health & safety regulations
- Oversee and maintain HACCP procedures, due diligence records and audit readiness
- Ensure all staff are trained and operating in line with food safety and compliance standards
- Support and grow both B2C and B2B sides of the business
- Ensure the business operates effectively in line with demand, including early starts and weekend trading
Requirements
- Previous experience as a business owner or in a senior management role with full operational responsibility
- Proven track record of increasing sales and improving profitability
- Strong staff management and training experience
- Solid understanding of food safety, HACCP and health & safety compliance
- Background in catering, hospitality or food production
- Experience working across both B2B and B2C environments
- Hands-on approach with the ability to lead from the front
- Flexible and committed, including availability for early starts and Saturdays as required
- Full-time, permanent position
- Salary expected to reach £40,000–£50,000 in the first year (basic plus incentives and performance-based increases)
- Opportunity to play a key role in a growing, independent business
Application
This is a unique opportunity for the right candidate. Please only apply if you meet the criteria and are prepared to fully commit to the role. Please submit your CV along with a covering letter. Interviews are now taking place. Note: The position may suit a younger, experienced professional aspiring to progress to their first senior position. In that instance, appropriate training can be provided although much of the other job criteria must be met.
Pay: £30,000.00-£50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
- Store discount
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Christchurch, Dorset: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- Willingness to work long hours and variable days as the business requires.
- Must be a car driver with maximum 3 points on licence (insurance purposes)
- Experienced in general catering production and delivery to high standards
Experience:
- Senior Management: 5 years (required)
- Sales experience B2B B2C: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person
