Job Description
Duncan Garage Café & Bakery isn't your average café—it's a community institution, a hub of creativity and connection, and one of Vancouver Island's most beloved organic cafés. We're looking for a visionary General Manager to lead our team and help take the Garage into its next era while preserving everything that makes it special.
This is a high-level, on-site leadership role. You'll work directly with the owners to bring our evolving vision to life, leading our culinary, bakery, café, and operations teams to deliver excellence every day.
What You'll Do
- Lead and inspire a passionate team across all departments.
- Bring clarity, accountability, and structure to day-to-day operations while keeping an eye on the big picture.
- Champion community by engaging with customers, supporting local initiatives, and celebrating the culture that fuels the Garage.
- Collaborate with ownership on strategic initiatives, growth opportunities, and continuous improvement.
- Own and understand P&L statements, budgets, labour costs, food costs, and the key drivers of profitability.
- Optimize production, inventory management, purchasing, and operational systems to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
- Oversee staffing, scheduling, labour planning, employee development, and performance management.
- Develop strong leaders within each department and build a culture of accountability, growth, and teamwork.
- Support product development through a solid understanding of flavour, food trends, and customer experience.
- Maintain high standards in food safety, HR practices, customer service, and team development.
- Drive sales while protecting and evolving the Garage's unique culture—community-first, organic-forward, inclusive, and welcoming.
What You Bring
- Strong leadership and people-development skills.
- Proven experience managing teams, operations, and financial performance.
- Strong understanding of P&L management, labour controls, and cost analysis.
- Background in hospitality, restaurant, café, bakery, or culinary management.
- Knowledge of HR best practices, BC employment standards, and food safety regulations.
- Strategic thinker who can also roll up their sleeves when needed.
- Comfort being the public face of a brand on social media and within the community.
- Understanding of café and bakery operations; Cooking and baking experience are strong assets.
- A values-driven mindset and a deep appreciation for what makes local businesses matter.
This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership role with a path toward ownership. We're looking for someone who isn't just managing a café—they're stewarding a legacy.
For the right candidate, there is potential to earn sweat equity and grow into an ownership role over time.
Ready to lead something meaningful? If you're excited by the idea of shaping the future of a community-rooted, values-driven café, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and cover letter.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits
- Company events
- Dental care
- Discounted or free food
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Vision care
Experience
- Restaurant management: +3 years
Language
Location
- Duncan, BC V9L 3W4 (required)
Pay: $80,000.00-$100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Store discount
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
