Head Baker

Fresh Earth Gluten Free Bake House – Johannesburg

Fresh Earth Gluten Free Bake House is a fast‑growing, innovative bakery specialising in premium gluten‑free products. We’re looking for a skilled Senior Head Baker & Production Supervisor to lead our baking team, oversee daily production, and ensure our products meet the highest standards of quality, consistency, and food safety.

Role Overview

You will manage the full baking and production process — from planning and mixing to baking, packing, and quality control. This role requires strong leadership, excellent organisational skills, and hands‑on bakery experience. You’ll ensure the bakery runs smoothly, efficiently, and professionally every day.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the baking and production team.
• Plan daily production schedules and ensure timely output.
• Oversee mixing, baking, cooling, and packing processes.
• Maintain strict gluten‑free standards and food safety compliance (FSSC 22000).
• Manage ingredient issuing, stock levels, and recipe accuracy.
• Monitor product quality and consistency across all ranges.
• Reduce waste and improve production efficiency.
• Ensure the bakery and equipment remain spotless and well‑maintained.
• Train, motivate, and support staff to meet performance targets.
• Coordinate production with logistics to ensure on‑time order fulfilment.

What Success Looks Like

• Smooth, efficient daily production flow.
• Consistent, high‑quality gluten‑free products.
• Motivated, well‑trained staff.
• Minimal non‑conformances and machine breakdowns.
• Accurate stock control and reduced waste.
• Clean, organised, professional bakery environment.

Requirements

• 3–5 years bakery production experience (gluten‑free or FMCG advantage).
• Strong leadership and people‑management skills.
• Excellent communication and organisational ability.
• Experience with inventory management.
• Computer literacy: Excel, Word, Pastel Evolution.
• Diploma in Production Management or equivalent experience.
• Own Transport essential.

Attributes We Value

• Attention to detail.
• Energetic, hands‑on, and proactive.
• Able to think on your feet.
• Hard‑working and career‑driven.
• Passionate about quality and consistency.
• Willing to go the extra mile.

Why Join Fresh Earth?

• A vibrant, clean, organised bakery environment.
• A supportive team culture.
• Opportunity to grow with a leading gluten‑free brand.
• Work with innovative products and exciting new developments.

Pay: R20 000,00 - R25 000,00 per month

Application Question(s):

• Are you a South African Citizen?
• Where did you learn to bake?
• Have you every worked in gluten free baking?
• Where have you previously managed a baking production team and facility?
• How do you manage oven scheduling, cooling times, and workflow to avoid delays?
• How do you motivate a team during high‑pressure production days?
• Describe a time you improved efficiency in a bakery or production environment.

Experience:

• Head Production Baking: 3 years (Required)

Work Location: In person