Area Manager - Ontario

Role overview

COBS Bread is seeking an Area Manager for Ontario to join its Operations team. Based in Toronto and reporting to the Regional Director of Operations, this role partners closely with the Support Team to help retail franchise bakeries meet COBS Bread’s standards for fresh product quality and outstanding customer service. The position suits someone who enjoys advising franchise operators, improving performance, and contributing to local communities.

Key responsibilities

• Develop strong, trust-based relationships with franchisees and work toward shared business goals.
• Partner directly with bakery operators to identify improvement areas, create practical action plans, and strengthen business performance.
• Support sales growth by improving customer satisfaction and engagement in each bakery.
• Help improve bakery profitability and the financial health of franchise operators.
• Coach, guide, and advise a portfolio of franchise operators.
• Monitor compliance with COBS brand standards across bakeries.
• Coordinate new franchisee training with the Franchising and Training team.
• Support bakery handover activities and opening processes for new operators.
• Promote operational excellence to improve sales, profitability, and customer satisfaction.
• Drive the rollout and adoption of marketing, product, and systems initiatives across many retail franchise locations.

Requirements

• Energetic and positive approach with the ability to build trust and meaningful working relationships quickly.
• At least 2 years of experience in a franchise retail setting or in multi-site retail management.
• Minimum 5 years of management experience, preferably in food service, hospitality, or franchising.
• Strong ability to interpret financial performance and operational metrics, and turn strategy into actionable plans.
• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel often and spend substantial time in the field.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to influence others and support change and continuous improvement.
• Comfortable juggling multiple tasks and competing priorities.
• Capable of working independently, taking calculated risks, and exercising sound judgment with limited supervision.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
• Degree with a concentration in Business Management.

Benefits and additional information

• Competitive pay and vacation plan.
• Individual bonus opportunity plus a company-wide bonus plan.
• Extended health and dental coverage, group RRSP matching, and a flexible spending account.
• Paid sick leave and personal leave days.
• Paid day off for community service or volunteer time.
• Supportive environment that encourages continuous learning, professional growth, and career progression.
• Opportunity to work with a dynamic, ambitious, close-knit, and fun team.
• High level of autonomy and responsibility.

Company information

COBS Bread serves communities across Canada with fresh baked goods and donates unsold items daily to local charities and food banks. The company attributes its growth to product quality, people development, and warm customer service. It is part of Bakers Delight, founded in 1980 and operating in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA, with more than 700 bakeries and over 15,000 employees serving more than 2.1 million customers each week.

Equal opportunity and accessibility

COBS Bread is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. Accommodation is available on request for applicants and employees with disabilities. Any accommodation needs shared during the hiring process will be handled confidentially to support a fair and equitable experience.

Application note

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.