Craft Bakers Association
Operations Manager
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Operations Manager
The role would be a clear second-in-command to the CEO, with responsibility for translating strategy into delivery, partner management, events, and internal operations. It would also remove some of the day-to-day delivery burden from the CEO. This draws from the existing Head of Operations role and CEO responsibilities while aligning to the strategic priorities for 2026–2029, particularly community engagement, Business Day, partnerships, training, governance, and commercial growth.
Reports to: CEO
Location: Ware, Hertfordshire
Frequent travel to meetings, events, member visits, and occasional overnight stays required.
Role Purpose
The Operations Manager is responsible for supporting the Chief Executive Officer in the day-to-day management and strategic delivery of the Craft Bakers Association (CBA). The postholder will project manage and coordinate the delivery of the CBA Strategic Focus Areas, ensuring objectives are translated into measurable actions, delivered on time, and aligned with organizational priorities. The role will lead operational planning, partner relationships, member engagement activity, and flagship events, including Business Day.
The Operations Manager will act as the first line of management for the Ware office team. The role will work closely with the CEO, Chairman, Board, and external partners to support the continued growth, relevance, and sustainability of the Association.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Delivery and Project Management
- Lead the operational delivery and project management of the CBA Strategic Focus Areas and associated workstreams.
- Monitor progress against agreed objectives and provide regular updates to the CEO, Chairman, and Board.
- Coordinate cross-functional strategic projects working with board members and the team.
- Support CEO engagement with regulators, MPs, industry groups, and sector partners.
- Act as a key representative of the CBA at meetings, exhibitions, and industry events as agreed with the CEO.
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Business Day & Events Management
- Lead the operational planning and delivery of the CBA Business Day and associated events.
- Coordinate project plans, budgets, suppliers, exhibitors, sponsors, speakers, and logistics.
- Ensure the successful delivery of:
- AGM
- Industry exhibition
- Insight/masterclass sessions
- Awards activity
- Networking and evening functions
- Work with the CEO and committees to ensure events support membership engagement, commercial growth, and strategic objectives.
- Conduct post-event reviews and identify opportunities for continuous improvement and lean delivery.
Team Leadership & Operations
- Act as the first line manager for the Ware-based team.
- Coordinate workloads, priorities, and performance across the office team.
- Conduct regular staff meetings and support employee development.
- Escalate operational issues, performance concerns, or resource requirements to the CEO.
- Support HR administration including holiday, sickness, and return-to-work processes.
Member Engagement & Communications
- Support the CEO in ensuring members receive a high-quality service and clear communication on CBA activity.
Governance & Reporting
- Support preparation for Board meetings, committees, and governance activity.
- Coordinate papers, reporting, and action tracking.
- Ensure accurate minutes, actions, and follow-up activity are completed.
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Operational & Financial Support
- Work alongside the CEO on business planning and organizational priorities.
Key Working Relationships
- Chief Executive Officer
- Chairman and Board Directors
- Ware Office Team
- Members and Industry Partners
- External agencies and consultants
- Government and sector stakeholders
Essential
- Proven experience in operations, project management, partnerships, or membership organizations.
- Strong organizational and programme management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Experience of delivering events or conferences.
- Ability to lead and motivate teams.
- Strong stakeholder and relationship management skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Commercial awareness and ability to identify opportunities for growth.
- Strong IT capability including Microsoft Office and CRM/database systems.
- High attention to detail and ability to work independently.
Desirable
- Experience working within trade associations, membership bodies, or not-for-profit organizations.
- Experience of sponsorship, partnership, or commercial income generation.
- Understanding of the food, baking, or manufacturing sectors.
- Knowledge of governance and board reporting.
Personal Attributes
- Highly organized and proactive.
- Positive, professional, and solutions-focused.
- Collaborative and relationship driven.
- Resilient and adaptable in a fast-moving environment.
- Comfortable balancing strategy and hands-on delivery.
- Passionate about supporting independent businesses and industry communities.
Additional Information
The postholder will be required to travel throughout the UK and undertake occasional overnight stays.
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