Head Baker
Overview
A growing Italian -inspired bakery, pastry shop, and specialty coffee concept in Óbidos, Portugal is seeking an experienced Head Baker to lead its bakery operations. The business focuses on authentic Italian and European baking traditions, artisanal methods, and high -quality café and retail products. As the concept expands, the Head Baker will play a central role in defining product quality, operational standards, and innovation.
Role Summary
The Head Baker will oversee all bakery production, from recipe development to daily output. This role requires deep technical expertise in Italian and European -style baking, strong leadership capabilities, and the ability to drive consistency, creativity, and operational excellence across the entire bakery function.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead all bakery production activities, from concept development to final product execution.
• Develop and refine recipes for Italian -inspired breads, viennoiseries, cookies, pizzas, and light meals.
• Uphold authenticity and quality while introducing creative and seasonal variations.
• Supervise, train, and motivate the bakery team, fostering a culture of craftsmanship and performance.
• Manage ingredient sourcing, inventory control, and supplier relationships for quality and cost optimization.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP and Portuguese food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Oversee production schedules, portioning, and workflow to meet café and wholesale demand.
• Collaborate with management on new product launches, menu iterations, and seasonal offerings.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and positive bakery environment.
Candidate Profile and Requirements
• Proven experience as a Head Baker within a premium bakery, café, or restaurant setting.
• Mastery of Italian and European baking traditions, including sourdough breads, focaccia, croissants, bomboloni, biscotti, pasticcotti, tarts, and seasonal specialties such as panettone or colomba.
• Strong understanding of fermentation, lamination, and dough development.
• Competence in pastry operations considered an asset.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP and food hygiene standards.
• Formal culinary or pastry training preferred.
• Fluency in English required; Portuguese or Italian an advantage.
• Passion for artisanal production, precision, and continuous product innovation.
• Italian nationality not required, though may be given preference.
What the Role Offers
• Leadership of the bakery operations within an expanding Italian -inspired concept located in one of Portugal's most scenic heritage towns.
• Creative autonomy in designing menus and developing signature products.
• Supportive management within a structured hospitality environment recognized for excellence.
• Competitive compensation aligned with experience.
• Strong growth potential within the broader hospitality group.
Proposed Remuneration Package
• Monthly gross salary: €2000–€2500
• Annual holiday allowance and Christmas allowance
• Shared accommodation in a team apartment
• Access to a shared company vehicle
Location
Óbidos, Portugal