Bakery Manager APPLY NOW

Job Summary:

The Production Manager at Cookies & Dreams is responsible for helping to oversee the daily production of cookies, fillings, and toppings, ensuring efficiency, quality, and consistency in all aspects of the baking process. This role involves both hands-on production work and team management, ensuring that all bakery operations align with business demands, sales forecasts, and seasonal fluctuations. The Production Manager plays a key role in maintaining communication between catering, wholesale, special event and store management teams to optimize workflow and meet customer demand.

Responsibilities:

Production Management:

• Works with Store & Company Management to help oversee the daily production of cookie dough, fillings, and toppings, ensuring all products meet Cookies & Dreams' quality and consistency standards.
• Adjust production levels based on demand, sales forecasts, and seasonal changes.
• Implement and maintain dough par levels to ensure adequate inventory while minimizing waste.
• Ensure all baking and preparation processes follow established recipes, portioning, and baking guidelines.
• Manage the execution of large orders, catering requests, special events and wholesale production needs.

Forecasting & Planning:

• Communicate with store managers, bakers, and company management teams to align production with upcoming promotions, events, and business needs.
• Monitor sales trends and adjust production schedules accordingly.

Team Leadership & Training:

• Support a team of bakers, ensuring all team members are trained in production techniques and safety standards.
• Foster a positive work environment by motivating staff, encouraging teamwork, and maintaining high morale.
• Help train and develop new employees to maintain production efficiency and uphold company standards.
• Ensure team members adhere to company policies, food safety regulations, and health code compliance.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to staff.

Operational & Administrative Duties:

• Maintain compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Ensure that all equipment is properly maintained, cleaned, and in good working condition.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, and, when necessary, termination of employees in coordination with store & upper management.
• Monitor and control ingredient costs, labor expenses, and production efficiencies.
• Ensure orders are fulfilled on time, with exceptional quality control.
• Address any operational issues promptly, implementing solutions to avoid disruptions in production.
• Participate & plan off-site events that include but are not limited to: fundraisers, pop up events & sampling events.

Qualities of a Successful Production Manager:

• Team Builder & Motivator: Cultivates a positive team culture, motivates staff, and encourages high performance.
• Effective Communicator: Clearly conveys instructions, listens to team feedback, and communicates effectively with other departments.
• Organized & Focused: Manages multiple tasks simultaneously, ensuring smooth production flow while maintaining store operations.
• Customer-Oriented: Understands the impact of product quality on customer satisfaction and works to exceed expectations.
• Leadership: Provides strong guidance while empowering team members to develop their skills.
• Analytical & Problem-Solver: Uses data and sales trends to make informed decisions on production levels and staffing needs.

Job Requirements:

• Full-time position requiring 30-40 hours per week.
• Ability to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Previous bakery, food production, or management experience preferred.
• Strong leadership, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Passion for quality baking and maintaining a high standard of excellence.

If you’re a proactive leader with a passion for baking, teamwork, and operational excellence, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Cookies & Dreams family!

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Paid time off

Ability to Commute:

• Bettendorf, IA 52722 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Bettendorf, IA 52722: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person