Job Description
The Forge is a new, fusion-style bagel bistro that is elevating the bagel scene in Winnipeg by offering unique, hand-formed artisan bagels directly inspired by the traditions of Poland and England. Unlike most bagels made in Winnipeg, our Polishire bagels are labour-intensive and require extensive stretching and hand-shaping to create the delicious, “creamy chew” that bagel aficionados love. We’ve also curated a premium, custom-blended espresso and coffee that’s crafted for those who truly appreciate exceptional flavour. At The Forge Bagel Co., our customers experience a new standard of bistro that is driven by quality and delivered with heart.
Please review our Website (https://www.theforgebagel.com/), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theforgebagel/), and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@theforgebagel) for further insight and information.
Details
We are seeking a full-time Manager of Restaurant Operations (“MRO”) to lead and manage our growing venture. This senior management role will be based in Winnipeg and will work onsite at our location at 692 St. Anne’s Rd. Working hours are expected to be from early morning to late afternoon, Tuesday to Saturday, subject to change based upon the needs of the business. This role will require the MRO to be on call for urgent matters of the business and either respond to those matters or have an escalation system developed to manage those matters.
Reporting to the Director of Operations, the MRO is responsible for the daily execution of The Forge Bagel Co. This role ensures that our standards for product quality, customer experience, and team performance are consistently delivered.
This is a hands-on leadership position within a fast-paced, artisan bakery environment. The successful candidate will lead from the floor while maintaining ownership of staffing, training, inventory, ingredient purchasing, and operational POS systems. The MRO is responsible for executing the in-store experience at the highest level.
This role operates as a “player-coach.”
The MRO is expected to be present and active on the floor during peak periods, step into service roles when needed, and lead by example through visible engagement and work ethic. At the same time, the MRO must avoid becoming a fixed member of the roster and maintain time for scheduling, ordering, training, and oversight.
Guiding Principle: Work in the business during peak periods. Work on the business before, after, and during periods of slower service.
Key Objectives
Ensure consistent delivery of The Forge product and service standards
Build, train, and lead a high-performing team
Maintain smooth and efficient daily operations
Eliminate operational friction points and improve workflow
Take full ownership of the day-to-day running of the business
Core Responsibilities
1. Staffing & Team Leadership:
Recruit, hire, onboard, and train front and back-of-house staff
Develop staff schedules aligned with business volume and labour targets
Coach team members to maintain high standards of performance and accountability
Address performance issues promptly and professionally
Foster a culture of pride, craftsmanship, and consistency
2. Daily Operations Management:
Oversee opening and closing procedures
Ensure production targets and prep levels are consistently met
Manage floor flow during service to avoid bottlenecks and delays
Maintain operational readiness across all equipment and workstations
3. Product Quality Control:
Uphold consistency of all Polishire bagels, lifts, Anvil coffee beverages, and other offerings that represent The Forge brand
Ensure recipes and preparation methods are implemented and followed precisely
Monitor final product before it reaches the customer
Identify and correct deviations in quality immediately
4. Customer Experience:
Set and maintain the tone of hospitality on the floor
Ensure service is efficient, warm, and consistent
Resolve customer concerns with professionalism and confidence
Train staff to communicate product knowledge effectively
5. Inventory & Supply Management:
Manage ordering of all ingredients and supplies
Maintain accurate inventory levels and par systems
Minimize waste and control food cost
Assist with building and managing supplier relationships
6. Operational Systems & Efficiency:
Identify inefficiencies and implement practical improvements
Ensure systems for scheduling, prep, and inventory are followed consistently
Maintain organization across all operational areas
Support execution of new product rollouts
7. Financial Awareness:
Manage labour scheduling in alignment with targets
Monitor product usage and waste
Support overall cost control through operational discipline
Scope of Responsibility
Staffing and team performance
Daily execution of operations
Product consistency and quality control
Customer experience on-site
Inventory and supply management
Development of playbook for future locations
Success Measures
Consistency of product quality
Strength and stability of the team
Smoothness of daily operations
Customer feedback and experience through online channels
Accuracy of scheduling and inventory management
Reduction of operational issues requiring owner involvement
Ideal Candidate Profile
Proven experience in restaurant or café operations leadership
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
Calm and effective under pressure
High attention to detail and standards
Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams
Ownership mindset with a proactive approach
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
The Forge Bagel Co. offers a total compensation potential above industry averages, consisting of a base salary of $70,000 - $82,000 depending on experience. Additional incentives include paid vacation, mobile allowance, benefit allowance, and performance-based incentives tied to operational outcomes including customer service, expense reduction, and profitability. This role will lead to more leadership opportunities as the business grows and expands.
If you are an experienced and proven restaurant General Manager or restaurant Operations Manager who is looking to grow your career in an exciting new venture, while working with a successful ownership team, please apply directly via email.
Please submit your application with a 1) Cover Letter and 2) Resume, by EMAIL directly to: [email protected]
While we appreciate the interest of all applicants, only those under consideration will be contacted for an interview. Thank you for your interest in The Forge Bagel Co.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $70,000.00-$82,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Dental care
Extended health care
Paid time off
Work Location: In person
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Manager of Restaurant Operations position is now open for candidates interested in the Back Office Jobs sector. This role in Winnipeg offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Back Office Jobs is a plus.
