Production & Operations Manager – Artisan Bakery

About the role

We are recruiting on behalf of an award‑winning artisan bakery for a Production & Operations Manager. The role will lead the bakery’s production team, drive efficiency, and shape the next chapter of the business.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage the bakery team, including recruitment, training and performance management.
• Support and coach the Kitchen Supervisor and cover the role during holidays.
• Identify and implement improvements to workflow, equipment, capacity and efficiency.
• Maintain food safety and compliance standards, including HACCP, COSHH and Health & Safety.
• Develop new products, refine existing recipes and maintain accurate costings, specifications and allergen records.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate pricing and monitor costs to improve profitability.
• Ensure quality control and product consistency across production and packing.
• Step into production and packing during peak periods and occasionally cover local delivery rounds.

Required profile

• Proven experience managing food production, bakery or confectionery operations.
• Track record of improving processes or scaling a food business.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, HACCP and related compliance.
• Excellent people‑management and leadership abilities.
• Commercial awareness with understanding of costs and margins.
• Confidence working with spreadsheets, databases and digital systems.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Product development experience is desirable; confectionery experience a plus.

Required skills

• Spreadsheets
• Databases
• Digital systems
• HACCP (food safety)

What we offer

• £35,000+ basic salary (DOE).
• Full‑time, 40‑hour week on‑site.
• Key member of the senior leadership team with genuine influence over the bakery’s future.
• Opportunity to develop new products and drive operational improvements.