head baker

Posted on June 15, 2026 by Employer details WhippleTree Bakery Inc

Job details

*1. About Whippletree Bakery* Whippletree Bakery Inc. opened its doors in January 2026 in the heart of James Bay, Victoria, on beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. We are a small-batch artisan bakery specialising in naturally leavened sourdoughs, fresh-milled grain breads, rustic European-style loaves, focaccia, and enriched doughs, as well pastries, sandwiches and pizza. Our philosophy centres on slow fermentation, organic and locally sourced ingredients, and exceptional craft. We are committed to building a reputation for quality, consistency, and community connection through both our retail storefront and growing wholesale partnerships across Greater Victoria. As a newly established bakery, we are at a pivotal stage of growth. We seek a Head Baker who will lead production to the highest artisan standards. *2. Purpose of the Role* The Head Baker is a critical management position responsible for leading all aspects of bakery production, team management and contributing to the commercial success of Whippletree Bakery. The successful candidate will bring extensive bakery management experience and a proven track record of implementing standard operating procedures, to achieve revenue targets. *3. Key Responsibilities* 3.1 Production Leadership and Artisan Craft * Lead and oversee the daily production of all bakery products, including naturally leavened sourdoughs, fresh-milled grain breads, rustic European-style loaves, focaccia, enriched doughs, and seasonal offerings. * Maintain the highest standards of artisan quality, ensuring consistent dough quality through proper fermentation timing, temperature control, and hydration management. * Oversee mixing, fermenting, shaping, scoring, proofing, and baking processes across all product lines. * Ensure safe and efficient operation of all bakery equipment, including mixers, ovens, proofing cabinets, and milling equipment. 3.2 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) * Bring, implement, and maintain a comprehensive suite of standard operating procedures covering all areas of bakery production, food safety, hygiene, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and quality control. * Continuously review and improve SOPs to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain regulatory compliance. * Ensure all team members are trained on and adhere to established SOPs. * Maintain thorough production records, batch tracking, and quality assurance documentation. 3.3 Food Safety and Regulatory Compliance * Hold and maintain a current food safety licence (FOODSAFE Level 1 or equivalent recognised Canadian certification) and ensure the bakery meets or exceeds all British Columbia food safety regulations and Vancouver Island Health Authority requirements. * Implement and manage a HACCP-based food safety system appropriate to the bakery?s operations. * Lead food safety training for all bakery staff and ensure ongoing compliance. * Manage all health and safety inspections, audits, and certifications. 3.4 Team Leadership and Collaboration * Lead, mentor, and manage both the night baking team and day baking team, fostering a harmonious, collaborative, and high-performing work environment. * Coordinate production scheduling across both shifts to ensure seamless handovers, efficient workflows, and consistent product quality. * Recruit, train, and develop baking team members, building capability and bench strength within the team. * Conduct regular team meetings, performance reviews, and provide constructive feedback. * Work collaboratively and harmoniously with the Owner (Chief Baking Officer), the Financial and Operations Manager, and investors as a critical member of the management team. * Contribute to management meetings, strategic planning, and business development discussions. * Foster a positive workplace culture that reflects the bakery?s values of craftsmanship, quality, and community. 3.5 Production Performance and Cost Management *Ensure production capacity and sched