Location: London
Department: Production / Operations
Reports to: Director of Operations / Founder
Type: Full-time, early-morning shifts
The Head Baker is responsible for leading all bagel production, ensuring consistent quality, efficiency, and adherence to traditional NYC bagel standards. This role combines hands-on baking expertise with team leadership, production planning, and continuous improvement across the bake operation.
Key Responsibilities
Production & Quality
Lead daily production of bagels from dough mixing through boiling and baking
Maintain strict consistency in taste, texture, size, and appearance
Execute and refine recipes, fermentation schedules, and bake profiles
Ensure all products meet brand standards and customer expectations
Troubleshoot dough, fermentation, and bake issues in real time
Team Leadership
Train, supervise, and mentor bakers and production staff
Create and manage daily production schedules and station assignments
Foster a culture of accountability, cleanliness, and pride in craft
Provide hands-on leadership during overnight / early-morning shifts
Operations & Efficiency
Plan production volumes based on sales forecasts and demand
Minimize waste while maintaining par levels and freshness
Collaborate with operations and front-of-house teams on product flow
Support scaling efforts, including new locations or increased volume
Food Safety & Compliance
Enforce all NYC Department of Health and food safety standards
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe production environment
Ensure proper labeling, storage, and handling of all ingredients
Lead by example in sanitation and HACCP best practices
Product Development (Optional / Preferred)
Assist in developing new bagel varieties or limited-time offerings
Test and document recipes and processes for consistency and training
Required Qualifications
5+ years of professional baking experience, preferably with bagels or high-volume bread production
Proven experience leading a bakery or production team
Deep understanding of dough fermentation, mixing, boiling, and baking
Ability to work overnight or early-morning shifts consistently
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Physically able to stand for long periods and lift 50+ lbs
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in bagel shops or traditional bagel production
Experience scaling production for multiple locations
Familiarity with production equipment (spiral mixers, deck ovens, kettles)
Food Protection Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
Key Traits Were Looking For
Detail-oriented with uncompromising quality standards
Calm and decisive under pressure
Hands-on leader who leads from the bench, not the office
Passion for traditional bagels and craft baking
Reliable, punctual, and process-driven
Compensation & Benefits (Example Customize as Needed)
Competitive salary or hourly rate (commensurate with experience)
Overtime eligibility
Health benefits (if applicable)
Paid time off
Growth opportunities as the brand expands
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