Overview
Head of Bakery Operations – St. JOHN, Bermondsey, London (onsite).
The Opportunity
This is a rare chance to take the helm of St. JOHN’s bakery operations, overseeing production at scale while preserving the artisanal craft at the brand’s heart. As Head of Operations (Bakery), you will lead a high-performing team, ensure uncompromising quality across wholesale and retail channels, and drive growth through operational excellence and strategic oversight. This role is onsite in Bermondsey and focuses on craft, scale, and brand integrity.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Production
* Lead all aspects of bakery production, from scheduling to logistics.
* Ensure consistency, precision, and quality across all baked goods.
* Manage stock control, supply chains, and raw material procurement.
* Champion health, safety, and food hygiene standards (HACCP).
Team Management & Development
* Inspire, lead, and develop a team of bakers and pastry chefs.
* Manage training, scheduling, and performance reviews.
* Act as the technical authority and mentor for your team.
Commercial & Strategic Growth
* Take ownership of the bakery P&L, optimising efficiency and profitability.
* Collaborate on new product development, balancing innovation with brand DNA.
* Strengthen and grow wholesale relationships with premium partners.
* Contribute to the wider growth strategy of St. JOHN’s wholesale and retail operations.
The Ideal Candidate
* Significant leadership experience in a bakery or large pastry section within a premium, high-volume environment.
* Proven ability to scale artisanal production while maintaining exacting quality standards.
* Exceptional technical expertise in bread (particularly sourdough) and pastry.
* Commercially astute, with strong budgeting and operational planning skills.
* A natural leader who can motivate, mentor, and sustain excellence under pressure.
* Resilient, pragmatic, and solutions-focused.
* A genuine respect for and alignment with the St. JOHN ethos.
How to Apply
Sanderson King has been exclusively retained by St. JOHN to lead this appointment. All third-party CVs and unsolicited introductions will be forwarded to Sanderson King for consideration. St. JOHN will not accept liability for any referral fees where an agency has not been formally instructed on this search. For a confidential discussion or to apply, please contact the recruiter listed below. All applications will be handled with the strictest confidence.
Company: St. JOHN
Location: Bermondsey, London (Onsite)
Apply via: Elliott Sanderson, Sanderson King (elliott@sandersonking.com)
Additional Details
* Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: General Business and Other
* Industries: Baked Goods Manufacturing, Hospitality, and Food and Beverage Manufacturing
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