Director of Operations - Eastern Canada

Role Overview

This leadership position is based in Toronto, Ontario and reports to the Senior Director, Operations - Prairies and Eastern Canada. The successful candidate will guide the Eastern Canada region by supporting operational teams, coaching Area Managers, strengthening franchisee relationships, improving sales performance, protecting brand standards, growing bakery profitability, advancing strategic initiatives, and contributing to network expansion.

This opportunity is suited to someone who enjoys leading others, influencing positive business change, and helping a franchise portfolio reach its goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Coach Area Managers on effective approaches to franchisee relationship management so trust is built and shared goals are achieved.
• Help create a team environment that reflects the company’s strategic direction.
• Act as a go-to resource for Area Managers handling everyday regional operational matters.
• Organize regular team meetings and events that strengthen collaboration and team connection.
• Deliver the portfolio’s targeted sales growth.
• Partner with Area Managers to create and deliver monthly action plans that improve customer experience and bakery growth.
• Support Area Managers in meeting campaign goals across their bakery portfolios.
• Provide accurate sales forecasting, track regional expenses, and contribute to annual budgeting.
• Review monthly MFS results and collaborate with Area Managers on follow-up actions.
• Ensure COBS brand standards are applied consistently and supported at bakery level.
• Work with cross-functional team members to assess business risks and put corrective plans in place.
• Drive implementation of the strategic plan through effective change management.
• Take on additional projects and duties as required.

Requirements

• Energetic, positive, and able to build trust-based relationships quickly.
• At least 5 years of experience in a senior management position.
• At least 5 years of experience in a similar role; franchising experience is preferred.
• A degree or diploma in business.
• Strong understanding of retail sales operations and small-business environments.
• Comfortable working in a fast-moving workplace.
• Proven ability to build and lead teams.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, problem-solving, and facilitation abilities.
• Self-directed and able to work independently without close supervision.
• Capable of analyzing financial performance and translating strategy into practical action.
• Able to drive revenue growth and improve profitability.
• Experience planning and executing long-term initiatives aligned with franchisee and corporate objectives.
• Ability to introduce new initiatives and encourage adoption across a network.
• Strong conflict resolution and negotiation skills.
• Ability to influence others and support continuous improvement.
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities at once.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution capabilities.

Benefits

• Competitive pay along with a vacation plan.
• Access to both individual and company bonus programs.
• Extended health and dental coverage, group RRSP matching, and a flexible spending account.
• Paid sick days and personal leave.
• A paid day for community service or volunteer time.
• An open environment that encourages continuous learning, professional development, and career growth.
• A lively, ambitious, close-knit, and enjoyable team culture.
• High levels of autonomy and responsibility.

About the Company

With more than 180 locations, the company provides fresh baked goods to communities across Canada and donates unsold product daily to local charities and food banks. Its growth has been driven by product quality, people development, and warm customer service.

The business is part of a larger bakery network established in 1980, operating in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA. Together, the network includes more than 700 bakeries and over 15,000 employees, serving more than 2.1 million customers each week.

Company Values

• Bring passion and purpose by contributing to something meaningful for the team, customers, and community.
• Be open and honest by communicating clearly, respectfully, and transparently.
• Make it better by continuously improving work, customer experience, and personal and team growth.
• Take ownership by being accountable for outcomes, commitments, and results.

Accessibility

Accommodation is available upon request for applicants and employees with disabilities. If contacted about this opportunity, candidates should inform the employer of any accommodations needed to support a fair and accessible process. Any accommodation-related information will be handled confidentially.

Selection Note

All applications are appreciated, but only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.