Department Manager

About us:

The Bread Factory is the UK's leading artisan bakery. Founded by Gail Meija in 1993, The Bread Factory, originally known as Gail Force, began by supplying some of London's most prestigious restaurants, including many with Michelin stars. More than three decades later, we continue to work closely with the best chefs, alongside grocers, foodservice partners and our own neighbourhood bakery, GAIL's.

The Bread Factory is synonymous with quality. We have been awarded more than 100 Great Taste Awards and have held a Royal Warrant since 2016, when it was first granted by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. In 2024, the warrant was renewed by His Majesty The King.

You’ll oversee daily production shifts, leading a team of around 30 colleagues to deliver quality products for GAIL’s bakeries, local grocery stores and restaurants. You’ll keep operations running safely and efficiently while developing your people and driving improvements.

We’re looking for an experienced food manufacturing leader who can motivate and coach teams, plan effectively and make confident decisions. Strong communication, teamwork and problem solving skills are essential.

Contracted hours: 40 hours – Full Time

Working Hours: 9am-5pm

Shift Pattern: Monday - Friday (flexibility required)

Location: Medlock Court, Welcomb St, Manchester M11 2NB

Every day is different at The Bread Factory, but here are some of the things you will be doing:

• Lead, motivate and develop a team of approximately 30 colleagues through coaching, regular performance reviews and clear communication.
• Manage all shift operations to meet safety, quality, cost and delivery requirements and achieve operational KPIs.
• Coordinate with support teams to manage production planning, resources and skills, ensuring products meet quality specifications and delivery deadlines.
• Maintain safe working practices and standard operating procedures, addressing nonconformance through root cause analysis and preventative action.
• Drive continuous improvement using team feedback and World Class Manufacturing techniques to improve productivity, efficiency and quality.

Our team tells us you will be a great addition if you have:

• Proven leadership experience within food manufacturing or bakery production.
• Strong communication and team development skills with a hands-on management approach.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining exceptional product standards.
• Confident with Microsoft Office and production reporting systems.
• A proactive, organised, and solution-driven mindset with a passion for quality craftsmanship.

What’s in it for you?

• Fresh bread daily to take home to enjoy with family and friends.
• 50% discount at GAIL’s and 40% off at The Bread Factory & The Flour Station Markets.
• Discounts and Savings from high-street retailers and restaurants
• 24-hour GP service
• Cycle to work scheme