Reports To: Owner / Operations Director
Exempt Status: Exempt
Position Summary
The General Manager is responsible for overseeing all daily operations of the business, including managing staff, ensuring service quality, operational efficiency, and profitability. This person will ensure that the bakery café operations align with Lodge Bread Company's established standards while maintaining a positive and efficient work environment. Additionally, the General Manager will handle inventory management, cost control, budget preparation, purchasing, P&L review, invoicing, and payroll.
Primary Responsibilities
Operations Management
- Oversee the daily operations of the café and bakery, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance with company standards.
- Manage and motivate the team to ensure exceptional customer service, a positive work environment, and the achievement of sales and service goals.
- Ensure that workstations, kitchen areas, and the dining room are organized, clean, and operating in accordance with health and safety regulations.
- Implement and ensure consistency with operational policies and procedures.
Inventory and Purchasing Management
- Manage inventory of food, beverages, and supplies according to operational and production needs.
- Place orders for supplies and products as needed, ensuring availability without overstocking.
- Control the efficient use of resources, minimizing waste and ensuring product freshness.
- Maintain relationships with suppliers, negotiate prices and delivery times, and ensure timely deliveries.
Cost Control and P&L Review
- Review and analyze monthly financial statements (P&L), identifying areas for improvement in costs, sales, and profit margins.
- Implement strategies to improve profitability through process optimization and cost control.
- Ensure operations comply with assigned budgets and established financial goals.
Invoicing and Payroll
- Oversee vendor invoicing, review and approve invoices to ensure they are accurate and paid on time.
- Manage employee payroll, ensuring that payments are correct, timely, and comply with labor laws.
- Monitor employee time records, vacation requests, and absences to ensure compliance with company policies.
Staff Management
- Hire, train, and develop team members, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their duties efficiently.
- Schedule work shifts and ensure adequate coverage during peak hours.
- Manage performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to employees.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and motivating work environment.
Customer Service and Marketing
- Ensure an exceptional customer experience is maintained at all times.
- Address customer concerns promptly and professionally, ensuring their satisfaction.
- Collaborate with the marketing team to implement promotions and strategies to increase sales and brand presence.
Administrative Tasks
- Maintain accurate records of daily operations, including sales reports, inventories, and other administrative reports.
- Ensure all licenses, permits, and safety regulations are adhered to.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Hospitality, or related field (preferred).
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a management position in the food and beverage industry, preferably in a bakery and café environment.
- Knowledge of financial statement analysis (P&L) and budget management.
- Exceptional organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong leadership skills and experience managing teams.
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations in the food industry.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with customers and employees.
Tools and Technology Used
- Point-of-sale (POS) systems
- Accounting and payroll software
- Inventory management tools
- Order processing and invoicing software
- Email and digital communication tools
- Microsoft R365 and relevant office suite
