A well established artisan bakery in Queenstown is entering an exciting new phase after 22 years of crafting exceptional bread. With a brand new, purpose‑built production facility on the horizon, complete with a bakehouse shop, we are seeking an experienced and hands‑on Production Manager to help lead our team into this next chapter. This is a senior leadership role for someone who understands both the craft of artisan baking and the realities of commercial scale production. If you have a passion for high quality bread, a talent for leading and developing teams, and the operational expertise to manage a busy wholesale bakery, this is an opportunity to shape the future of a respected business that supplies cafés, restaurants, hotels, and caterers across the lower South Island.
Company Overview
European Bakery has built a 22‑year reputation for quality artisan bread, using traditional European techniques, premium ingredients, and a commitment to consistency that has earned them a loyal customer base across the South Island. Their bread is at the heart of what they do, and as they prepare to move into a new, state‑of‑the‑art facility, they are focused on continuing to deliver exceptional products while growing their team and capabilities. The business is guided by a highly experienced General Manager and supported by capable production supervisors, skilled bakers, and emerging talent, creating a collaborative environment where leadership and craftsmanship are valued.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee daily artisan bread production, ensuring consistency, quality, and efficiency across all batches.
- Monitor dough development, fermentation, and bake quality, applying strong technical knowledge to maintain high standards.
- Manage production planning, rostering, and workflow to meet wholesale dispatch deadlines reliably.
- Uphold and monitor all aspects of the Food Control Plan, ensuring strict compliance with food hygiene and health and safety regulations.
- Drive performance, efficiency, and cost control, balancing craft with commercial reality.
- Mentor and develop production supervisors, skilled bakers, and trainees, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
- Work closely with the General Manager to align production with business goals and maintain strong communication across the leadership team.
- Step into hands‑on production when needed, while maintaining a clear view of the bigger operational picture.
Qualifications
A minimum of five years of experience in wholesale bread production is required, with at least three of those years in a production management role. Strong technical knowledge of fermentation, dough handling, and large‑scale production is essential. Proven ability to lead, nurture, and develop teams is critical. Candidates must be confident managing rostering, compliance, and operational systems, with a commercially astute approach to cost control. A practical, solutions‑focused mindset and the ability to remain calm under pressure are important. A passion for artisan bread and for building strong teams is essential. Experience in wholesale artisan baking is mandatory.
Benefits and Perks
This full time senior leadership role offers a competitive annual salary ranging from NZD 85,000 to NZD 93,000. You will work in a brand new, purpose‑built production facility designed to support high quality artisan baking. The company has a strong and loyal customer base, providing stability and the opportunity to work with a respected brand. The collaborative leadership team values your input and supports your growth. This is a chance to help shape the future of a well loved bakery while leading a talented team into an exciting new phase.
How to Apply
If you are ready to take ownership of the production side of a growing wholesale operation and lead a talented team into its next chapter, we would love to hear from you. Please apply via Seek with your CV and a cover letter that tells us about your experience and why this role appeals to you. Applications without a cover letter will not be responded to. You must be a New Zealand resident or have the right to work in New Zealand. Join a business where your leadership and passion for artisan bread will make a lasting impact. Apply today to become part of the next chapter of European Bakery.