Job Description

At St. JOHN, bread is not a side note. It is the first thing that arrives at the table, the last thing used to clear a plate, and one of the oldest expressions of hospitality. We are looking for someone who understands this.

The Head of Bread leads the bakery with quiet authority, technical excellence and consistency. They care as much about the loaf that leaves the oven every morning as they do about the people making it.

This is a hands-on role. You will bake, teach, organise and improve. You will work early, think ahead and understand that great bread comes from discipline rather than shortcuts.

You will be responsible for the daily production of all breads across the business, maintaining the standards that define St. JOHN while developing the bakery and the people within it.

You will oversee production planning, quality, scheduling, ordering and food safety, ensuring every loaf is made with care and delivered on time.

Lead the bread bakery and set the standard through your own work.
Produce naturally fermented breads, rolls, buns and seasonal products to an exceptional standard.
Maintain consistency across every bake, every day.
Develop production schedules that balance quality, efficiency and demand.
Manage stock, ordering and supplier relationships with attention and economy.
Recruit, train and develop bakers, creating a culture of learning and craftsmanship.
Ensure the bakery is clean, organised and maintained to the highest food safety standards.
Monitor costs, minimise waste and respect ingredients.
Work collaboratively across the kitchens to support service and seasonal menus.
Continue to refine recipes and methods without losing sight of what makes our bread recognisable.

Job Requirements

Has significant experience leading a professional artisan bakery.
Has an excellent understanding of natural fermentation, dough development and traditional bread production.
Leads calmly and earns respect through knowledge and example.
Notices details others overlook.
Enjoys teaching and takes pride in seeing others improve.
Understands that consistency is a skill.
Is organised, practical and dependable.