Program Manager/Pastry Chef

Easterseals of Chicagoland and Greater Rockford is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of early learners and individuals of all abilities through access to expert educational, family, and community support. Established in 1936, Easterseals has been serving the communities and families of Chicagoland and Greater Rockford for nearly a century, impacting lives through its two interconnected pillars of work: early learning and disability services. As an affiliate of America’s largest nonprofit health care organization, Easterseals is deeply committed to creating inclusive environments where individuals with disabilities can thrive alongside their neurotypical peers. The organization’s longstanding history, community presence, and dedication to empowerment make it a trusted leader in providing innovative programs and comprehensive services.

The Program Manager/Pastry Chef role at the Happy Apple Pie Shop, a bakery operated by Easterseals, offers a unique opportunity to blend culinary passion with meaningful social impact. Located in Oak Park, IL, the Happy Apple Pie Shop is more than just a bakery; it is a hub for employment opportunities, job training, and life skills development for individuals both with and without disabilities. This position plays a crucial role in ensuring daily bakery operations run smoothly while upholding the mission of Easterseals to promote independence, skill development, and community inclusion. The Program Manager/Pastry Chef leads a diverse team of bakery staff, providing hands-on coaching and supervision to foster a supportive, educational, and high-quality work environment.

This role requires a versatile leader skilled in baking, staff management, production oversight, and event participation. The position involves overseeing all aspects of bakery operations, from menu development and inventory management to budgeting and community outreach. The Program Manager collaborates with chef consultants to innovate new products and promote the bakery through various events, while ensuring that every product meets quality standards. Practical responsibilities include maintaining equipment, managing procurement from local suppliers, tracking performance metrics, and driving initiatives that enhance operational efficiency.

What sets this role apart is its emphasis on community and social mission. The Program Manager/Pastry Chef is responsible for nurturing a diverse workforce through tailored training and development plans, fostering professional growth, and creating an inclusive atmosphere where all team members can achieve their highest level of independence. The role demands emotional intelligence, patience, and empathy to effectively support individuals with varying needs, along with strong communication skills to interface with customers, stakeholders, and leadership effectively.

This fast-paced and dynamic position calls for a professional who is passionate about food and community, and who thrives in a collaborative environment that values respect, cultural responsiveness, and teamwork. Candidates should have culinary expertise, leadership experience, and a commitment to the transformative mission of Easterseals. This is an exciting opportunity for a culinary professional to make a direct impact through daily operations while contributing to a larger cause that expands possibilities for individuals of all abilities.