Bakery Department Lead — People-First Leadership

Fresh Market Inc.; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Team member discount up to 40%

Early Earn Wage Access (up to 50% of w

401K contribution and company match

Financial Wellness Program

Personal time off and additional time‑

Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, &

Job summary

The Fresh Market is seeking a Bakery Department Lead to support the Bakery Department Manager in delivering an exceptional guest experience and maintaining department excellence. You will lead with care, coach team members, and step in as acting manager when needed to ensure smooth operations and top-notch hospitality.

You will monitor schedules, inventory, and merchandising, driving sales and profitability while collaborating with other leaders to achieve store success.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of progressive management experience in supermarkets, retail, restaurants, hotels, or general business.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.
• Proven ability to deliver an exceptional guest experience while achieving performance goals.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Basic proficiency with POS systems, scheduling tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.

Responsibilities

• Help monitor labor schedules to meet productivity and budget goals.
• Assist in maintaining accurate inventory levels, minimizing shrink, and supporting ordering processes.
• Act as a resource for team members and provide guidance in the manager's absence.
• Model and coach "Impeccable Hospitality" by actively engaging guests and creating positive experiences.
• Help implement merchandising strategies and promotional plans to maximize sales and profitability.
• Assist in analyzing department financial and performance metrics.
• Collaborate with fellow department leaders to drive overall store success.
• Leverage available technology to perform these tasks.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Guest experience

Communication

Problem solving

POS systems

Scheduling tools

Microsoft Office

Education

Associate's degree in business/retail management or related field

Tools

POS systems

Scheduling software/tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

The Fresh Market is seeking a Bakery Department Lead to support the Bakery Department Manager in delivering an exceptional guest experience and maintaining department excellence. You will lead with care, coach team members, and step in as acting manager when needed to ensure smooth operations and top-notch hospitality.

You will monitor schedules, inventory, and merchandising, driving sales and profitability while collaborating with other leaders to achieve store success.