Production Food Manager

Description:

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled Bakery Production Manager to lead and optimize our bakery production operations. This role focuses on managing people, processes, inventory, and systems to ensure efficient, high-quality, and on-time production. The ideal candidate is an experienced production or operations manager who can use data and systems to run a disciplined and organized production environment. Baking experience is not required.

Key Responsibilities:

Production Management:

Plan, schedule, and execute daily and weekly production to meet customer orders and sales forecasts. Balance labor, equipment, and production capacity to maximize efficiency and reduce bottlenecks or downtime. Monitor workflow to minimize waste and optimize resource utilization. ERP /

Systems Ownership:

Oversee production workflows in ERP systems (NetSuite experience preferred). Ensure accurate tracking of inventory for raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods. Manage order flow from sales through production to fulfillment, using data to forecast, plan, and improve operations.

People & Floor Leadership:

Supervise production staff and floor supervisors, setting clear expectations and accountability. Train teams on standardized processes, ensuring consistency and operational discipline. Foster a calm, organized, and collaborative production environment.

Quality & Compliance:

Maintain quality control systems, including specifications, checks, and documentation. Enforce food safety and sanitation standards, ensuring compliance with local and national regulations. Partner with QA teams to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

Inventory & Supply Management:

Monitor and maintain inventory accuracy while managing suppliers and materials. Forecast ingredient requirements based on projected production volumes. Implement processes to minimize waste and maintain cost control.

Requirements:

Qualifications:

Proven experience as a Production Manager, Operations Manager, or similar leadership role in food production or manufacturing. Strong understanding of ERP systems and production workflows (NetSuite experience preferred). Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Exceptional organizational and time management abilities. Demonstrated ability to manage teams, implement processes, and maintain operational discipline. Familiarity with quality control systems and food safety regulations. Analytical mindset, with the ability to use data to drive production decisions and improvements. Preferred Experience with Bakery Production Equipment (a plus): Bun Dividers, Dough Sheeters, Drop Fryers, Walk-in Ovens, 60 qt Mixers, Walk-in Proof Boxes, Donut Machines