Prepared Foods Manager

Good Foods Co-op Inc•Lexington, KY

4h•$19 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

Good Foods Co-op is seeking a Prepared Foods Manager who is passionate about natural foods, team leadership, and delivering high-quality prepared meals and customer service. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced kitchen and retail environment, enjoys leading and developing staff, and is committed to operational excellence. The Prepared Foods team plays an important role in creating fresh, high-quality meals while supporting local ingredients, sustainable practices, and exceptional customer experiences.

Requirements

5 years previous Prepared Foods, kitchen, or natural foods retail experience
Minimum 5 years management and staff leadership experience
Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, hands-on environment
Strong customer service focus and positive leadership style
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
Reliable, detail-oriented, and solution-focused
Strong interest in natural and organic foods and cooperative values
Comfortable working flexible schedules, including weekends
Ability to safely lift up to 50 lbs and work in varied kitchen and retail environments
High School diploma or equivalent
Previous retail, Prepared Foods or natural foods experience
Service-oriented individual with high energy, positive and friendly demeanor
Minimum 5 years of Prepared Foods experience, preferably in a natural food Prepared Foods setting
Minimum 5 years personnel management experience; upper-level management preferred
Excellent communications skills including the ability to work effectively in one-on-one and small group relationships and help facilitate the movement of ideas to concrete action plans with co-workers
Strong analytical skills to evaluate data and respond to emerging trends
Excellent organizational skills and consistently follow through on commitments and implementation plans
Knowledge of current trends in natural foods industry
Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds on a repetitive basis
Regular, predictable attendance
Willingness and ability to learn and grow to meet the changing requirements of the job
High level of interest in natural and organic foods
High level of interest in the cooperative business structure and in the long-term sustainability of locally-owned, independent businesses preferred
Very strong work ethic and demonstrable attention to detail
Must be a fast, focused, and hardworking person
Experience working with the public
Experience with diverse cultures and backgrounds preferred
Must be available to work as scheduled and at least one weekend day each week

Nice To Haves

Prepared Foods experience preferred
Upper-level management experience preferred
High level of interest in the cooperative business structure and in the long-term sustainability of locally-owned, independent businesses preferred
Experience with diverse cultures and backgrounds preferred

Responsibilities

Manage department staff, scheduling, training, and performance development
Oversee food production, inventory management, and ordering processes
Ensure high-quality prepared foods and excellent customer service standards
Monitor department sales, labor, margin, and inventory performance
Coordinate staffing plans and labor usage to support business goals
Maintain clean, organized, and food-safe production and retail areas
Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations
Support merchandising, displays, signage, and product presentation
Monitor product quality, minimize shrink, and manage unsellable items
Collaborate with leadership on promotions, category management, and operational improvements
Provide leadership, coaching, and support to Prepared Foods staff
Fill in operationally within the department as needed