Regional Sales Manager of Deli/Bakery
Description Overview
The Regional Sales Manager of Deli/Bakery is responsible for driving sales growth, labor efficiency, food cost control, and operational excellence across Deli/Bakery Departments within an assigned region. This role partners closely with the VP of Operations, District Managers, Store Managers, and Deli/Bakery Managers to ensure consistent execution of company standards, programs, and financial targets. This leader provides both strategic direction and hands-on operational support to strengthen performance, improve shrink control, and enhance the customer experience in all Deli/Bakery locations.
Core Responsibilities
Lead regional Deli/Bakery Departments in achieving budgeted sales, gross profit, labor, and shrink targets.
Monitor performance indicators, including:
- Sales and mix trends
- Labor productivity
- Food cost and shrink
- Production efficiency
Implement strategies to increase revenue while protecting profitability and maintaining quality standards.
Ensure promotional programs and seasonal initiatives are executed effectively to drive incremental sales.
Leadership & Operational Direction
Provide clear performance expectations and direction to Store Managers and Deli/Bakery Managers.
Develop and mentor Deli/Bakery Specialists and departmental leaders to strengthen execution and leadership capability.
Ensure consistent execution of departmental programs and standards, including:
- Safety and Sanitation
- Training and Processing Standards
- Pricing and Displaying
- Merchandising
- Weights & Tares
- Scanning Accuracy
- Inventory Control
Store Execution & Field Leadership
Conduct routine store visits (minimum weekly cadence across region) to assess department readiness and compliance.
Evaluate hot case, cold case, bakery tables, grab-and-go, and meal solution execution.
Identify operational gaps and implement corrective action plans with measurable follow-up.
Partner with District Managers to address staffing, leadership, and execution challenges.
Labor & Food Cost Management
Drive disciplined labor scheduling and production planning to align staffing with sales volume.
Improve food cost control by reducing overproduction, waste, and spoilage.
Coach department leaders on production forecasting and daily readiness routines.
Communication & Alignment
Serve as a liaison between Operations leadership and store-level teams to ensure consistent communication and alignment.
Provide performance updates and actionable insights to the VP of Operations.
Promote a culture of “No Surprises” and operational accountability.
Training & Talent Development
Support hiring, onboarding, and development of Deli/Bakery Managers and key associates.
Coach leaders on improving customer service standards and team productivity.
Identify high-potential talent and support succession planning within the region.
Reinforce training standards to ensure consistent execution across all stores.
Food Safety, Compliance & Brand Protection
Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and regulatory standards across all locations.
Maintain consistent quality and presentation standards that protect the brand.
Address compliance or execution issues quickly and ensure sustainable improvement.
Qualifications
Proven leadership experience in grocery or retail, preferably in Deli, Bakery, or Food Service operations.
Strong knowledge of Deli/Bakery Department operations and food safety standards.
Demonstrated ability to analyze performance metrics and implement operational improvements.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to influence and lead multi-unit store teams.
Passion for developing leaders and improving customer experience.
Core Competencies
Accountability
Customer Oriented
Leadership & Influence
Decision Making
Detail Oriented
Problem Solving
Organized & Reliable
Team Building
Time Management
Education & Experience
High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
3+ years of Deli/Bakery or Fresh Multi-Unit leadership experience preferred.
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Physical Demands
Must be able to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform physical tasks required in a Deli/Bakery Department environment.