Trainee Bakery Manager

It’s exciting to be part of a company where employees genuinely BELIEVE in their mission! We are on the lookout for a driven and customer-oriented Trainee Bakery Manager to join our bakery team. This developmental position aims to provide practical experience in all facets of bakery operations, personnel management, and commercial performance, with the intent of preparing the successful candidate for advancement into a Bakery Manager position. The focus of this role is on effective resource management to enhance turnover and reduce shortages, all while ensuring compliance with company standards, processes, and policies. This role represents a significant opportunity for a seasoned baker ready to transition into a management position.

Minimum Requirements:

• Matric / Grade 12 is mandatory
• Qualified Baker is essential
• At least 2 years of experience in a bakery production setting
• Supervisory experience is advantageous

Competencies:

• Achieving results through collaboration
• Planning, organizing, and monitoring activities and production schedules
• Strong commitment to standards, policies, and procedures
• Customer focus and commitment to service excellence
• Effective communication skills, including active listening
• Business insight with the capacity to analyze profitability and costs
• Strong bakery and production planning abilities
• Detail-oriented with a focus on quality
• Capability to thrive under pressure in a fast-paced retail environment
• Availability to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays

Key Responsibilities:

• Effectively manage resources to maximize turnover and minimize shortages.
• Ensure compliance with company standards, processes, policies, and procedures.
• Uphold high standards of hygiene, housekeeping, and safety practices throughout the bakery floor and backup areas.
• Ensure that security protocols are strictly observed.
• Guarantee that all bakery staff provide consistent service and product quality to customers.
• Plan, coordinate, and oversee daily, weekly, and monthly production of bakery items according to company specifications.
• Order, manage, and control stock effectively to support production and reduce waste.
• Monitor, manage, and track departmental expenses according to established standards.
• Accurately complete and manage all administrative tasks in a timely manner, including staff scheduling, leave management, pricing, and cost controls.
• Conduct regular quality assessments to ensure product consistency and freshness.
• Prevent waste, shrinkage, and damages through effective management controls.
• Analyze, maintain, and update relevant information and documentation, taking corrective action as needed.
• Actively engage with customers, provide product advice, understand customer needs, and deliver suitable solutions.
• Evaluate departmental profitability and propose or implement corrective actions to enhance performance.
• Support and oversee employees to ensure standards are maintained by skilled, motivated staff.
• Fully participate in all necessary training and development initiatives.

Closing Date: 06 February 2026

If you thrive in an environment of rapid growth and enjoy working alongside enthusiastic, high-achieving individuals, you'll find a fulfilling career with us!

Discover Who We Are: At Pick n Pay, we are more than just a retailer; we are a team of dedicated individuals focused on providing an exceptional shopping experience for our customers and a rewarding, vibrant workplace for our employees. Established in 1967, Pick n Pay is among the largest retail chains in South Africa, serving millions of customers throughout the African continent. Our reputation is built on our dedication to delivering the highest quality and value to our customers.

Our Mission: We serve with our hearts, creating a great place to be, and with our minds, we establish an excellent shopping environment.

Our Values: Our values are deeply ingrained in our culture and guide our actions:

• Passion for our Customers: We prioritize our customers and strive for their satisfaction as our success.
• Respect and Care: We value our team’s diversity and treat one another with kindness and understanding.
• Personal Growth and Opportunity: We empower our employees by providing opportunities for learning and advancement.
• Leadership and Innovation: We encourage leadership and vision, rewarding innovative thinking.
• Honesty and Integrity: We operate with transparency and trust in all interactions.
• Community Support: We are committed to making a positive impact in our communities.
• Individual Responsibility: We take ownership of our actions and decisions.
• Accountability: We hold ourselves responsible for fulfilling our commitments to our customers, colleagues, and business.

Why Pick n Pay? At Pick n Pay, our greatest asset is our people. We aim to be the employer of choice, attracting and retaining top talent in the industry. We cultivate a work environment that promotes growth, celebrates achievements, and values individual contributions. Here, your work is meaningful, recognized, and rewarded. Experience the joy of being part of Pick n Pay. Together, let’s shape the future of retail in Africa.

View our career opportunities.