General Manager; Operations

9 Market Place, Macclesfield, SK10 1EB
, UNITED KINGDOM

At Flour Water Salt, we’re more than a bakery. We’re a fast-paced, community-focused business passionate about creating exceptional pastries and baked goods while building meaningful relationships with the people around us, from our customers and team to local suppliers and neighbouring businesses.

We believe great food comes from great people. That means fostering a workplace built on creativity, collaboration, shared values, and continuous growth. As we continue to evolve, we’re looking for a General Manager to become a pivotal part of the business, working closely with Senior Management to help shape the future of Flour Water Salt.

This is an opportunity for someone who thrives in hospitality, enjoys balancing operations with people leadership, and wants to play a key role in a growing independent business.

You’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of the bakery while supporting the long-term growth and success of the business. You’ll lead from the front, maintaining a strong presence on the floor, supporting and developing the team, driving operational excellence, and helping strengthen our connection with the local community.

A core part of this role will be bridging the gap between Front of House and Back of House teams, creating strong communication, alignment, and collaboration across the business. You’ll play a key role in ensuring both teams work cohesively towards shared goals, helping to foster a culture of mutual respect, accountability, and excellence.

Working closely with Senior Management, you’ll have significant influence over team culture, customer experience, systems, performance, and future opportunities for the business. This is a highly collaborative position and an opportunity to become a pivotal part of Flour Water Salt’s continued growth.

Managing rotas, scheduling, and staff leave across the team

Supporting recruitment and onboarding processes, particularly for Front of House (with potential involvement in Back of House hiring)

Leading performance reviews, ongoing feedback, and professional development plans

Handling HR processes and fostering a positive, high-performing workplace culture

Coaching and motivating the team to deliver exceptional customer experiences

Supporting retention, wellbeing, and team engagement

Maintaining an active Front of House presence, particularly during peak service periods

Ensuring smooth day-to-day bakery operations and consistently high standards

Overseeing store upkeep, presentation, cleanliness, and maintenance

Managing opening/closing procedures and operational systems

Ensuring compliance with food safety, health & safety, and company policies

Reporting on turnover, sales metrics, labour costs, and key performance indicators

Monitoring and managing wastage and identifying opportunities for improvement

Supporting profitability through efficient stock, staffing, and operational planning

Driving initiatives to improve customer experience and business performance

Overseeing marketing activity, including Instagram, Mailchimp, and in-store promotions

Helping maintain and grow the Flour Water Salt brand presence

Organising events and collaborations, including pop-ups with local businesses

Building and nurturing strong relationships with suppliers and members of the local community

Working closely with Senior Management on projects, growth plans, and operational improvements

Acting as a trusted partner in shaping the future direction of the business

Bringing ideas, initiative, and leadership to help the bakery continue to evolve

Have previous experience in a General Manager, Operations Manager, or senior hospitality leadership role

Thrive in fast-paced hospitality environments and enjoy balancing people, operations, and commercial performance

Are a natural leader who motivates teams and builds positive working cultures

Have experience with recruitment, HR processes, and employee development

Are highly organised and confident managing…