At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily production operations and ensure high-quality artisan products.
- Company: The Bread Factory, the UK's leading artisan bakery with a rich heritage.
- Benefits: 50% discount at GAIL’s, wellbeing perks, and family-friendly policies.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a commitment to sustainability and community.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team crafting delicious baked goods while making a positive impact.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in food manufacturing and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
About us: The Bread Factory is the UK's leading artisan bakery. Founded by Gail Meija in 1993, The Bread Factory 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, having been awarded more than 100 Great Taste Awards and holding a Royal Warrant since 2016, renewed in 2024. We source our ingredients thoughtfully, partnering with farmers and millers who align with our values, resulting in delicious, carefully made baked goods that support a more sustainable and nutritious food system.
As we continue to expand, we are seeking an experienced Department Manager to lead our growing team at our brand-new Milton Keynes site.
Contracted hours: 40 hours - Full Time
Working Hours: 3pm-11pm
Shift Pattern: Any 5 days out of 7 (weekends might be included as well)
Location: Milton Keynes, MK14
Every day is different at The Bread Factory, but here are some of the things you will be doing:
- Lead and manage daily production operations, ensuring high-quality, on-time delivery of artisan products.
- Develop, coach, and support Line Leaders to achieve excellence in quality and performance.
- Monitor production standards, driving continuous improvement in efficiency and innovation.
- Uphold food hygiene, safety, and compliance standards across all bakery processes.
- Oversee shift planning, performance reviews, and operational reporting with accuracy and consistency.
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?
- Family-friendly policies such as maternity and paternity pay, and grandparents leave.
- 50% GAIL’s discount and 40% off at The Bread Factory & The Flour Station Markets.
- Wellbeing benefits such as 24-hour GP service, parties, Cycle to work schemes and more...
Our Care Values
- We care about Job Well Done: Since 1993, we have been champions in traditional baking with the finest ingredients and techniques.
- We care about Baking: At The Bread Factory all our teams take pride in crafting beautiful, freshly baked loaves, pastries, and cakes.
- We care about each other: We always act with respect, empathy, and support to our employees, neighbours and customers.
- We care about community: We believe in minimising unsustainable practices and reducing waste while ensuring we provide everyone with nutritious high-quality food.
- We care about nature: We’re committed to sustainability across our supply chain - from reducing waste and reusing surplus to supporting regenerative farming that helps restore the planet.
Department Manager NEW Milton Keynes Posted today Competitive employer: The Bread Factory
The Bread Factory is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration among its team members. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development in the dynamic field of artisan baking, all while being located in the heart of the UK’s culinary scene. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to crafting innovative food products that delight our customers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Department Manager NEW Milton Keynes Posted today Competitive
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like The Bread Factory.
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Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like The Bread Factory, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
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We think you need these skills to ace Department Manager NEW Milton Keynes Posted today Competitive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at The Bread Factory, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at The Bread Factory.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to The Bread Factory. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at The Bread Factory. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Bread Factory
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to The Bread Factory’s mission.
