General Manager

Job Description
The General Manager (GM) is responsible for the overall leadership and operational performance of a unionized commercial bakery, ensuring profitability, efficiency, quality, and compliance with labor agreements. This role oversees production, maintenance, quality assurance, supply chain, and safety while fostering a collaborative and productive relationship with the union workforce. The GM drives continuous improvement, cost control, and strategic growth initiatives to meet company goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership:

• Direct all aspects of bakery operations, including production, quality, maintenance, and logistics, to ensure efficiency and profitability.
• Develop and execute strategic plans to optimize production capacity, reduce waste, and improve overall performance.
• Oversee scheduling, labor planning, and supply chain management to meet production demands while controlling costs.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to enhance operational efficiency.

Union & Labor Relations:

• Maintain a positive working relationship with union representatives, ensuring compliance with the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
• Collaborate with HR and legal teams to handle labor negotiations, grievances, and dispute resolution.
• Foster a strong employee relations culture, balancing productivity goals with fair and compliant labor practices.
• Provide leadership and support for supervisors and managers in managing union employees effectively.

Financial & Business Performance:

• Develop and manage budgets, financial forecasts, and cost-control initiatives to maximize profitability.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as yield, labor efficiency, waste reduction, and equipment utilization.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities while maintaining product quality and compliance standards.

Safety, Compliance, & Quality Assurance:

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, FDA, USDA, and other regulatory bodies, as well as company food safety and sanitation policies.
• Oversee workplace safety programs, conducting regular audits and corrective actions to prevent injuries and ensure a safe work environment.
• Drive adherence to GMPs, HACCP, and other quality programs to maintain product consistency and customer satisfaction.

Leadership & People Development:

• Build and mentor a high-performing management team, fostering accountability and professional growth.
• Promote a culture of teamwork, engagement, and continuous learning throughout the bakery.
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to create a supportive and productive workplace.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Food Science, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Experience: 7+ years of leadership experience in a high-volume food manufacturing environment, preferably in a unionized setting.
• Skills:
• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Experience with union labor relations, negotiations, and contract administration.
• Expertise in food production processes, quality control, and regulatory compliance.
• Financial acumen with experience in P&L management, budgeting, and cost control.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and production management software.

Work Environment:

• Physical Demands: Ability to walk production floors, lift up to 25 lbs occasionally, and work in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment.
• Schedule: Flexibility to work extended hours, including weekends and holidays, based on business needs.