Program Manager/Pastry Chef

Easterseals of Chicagoland and Greater Rockford is a distinguished nonprofit organization committed to transforming the lives of early learners and individuals with disabilities. Established in 1936, it proudly serves the communities of Chicagoland and Greater Rockford, delivering expert educational, family, and community support. As an affiliate of America's largest nonprofit health care organization, Easterseals offers a comprehensive range of services designed to foster inclusion, empowerment, and independence for individuals of all abilities. The organization’s philosophy centers around two pivotal pillars: early learning and disability support, shaping programs that bridge gaps and expand possibilities for its diverse clientele.

The Program Manager/Pastry Chef position at the Happy Apple Pie Shop, a unique bakery under Easterseals' management located at 226 Harrison Street, Oak Park, IL, is an exceptional role blending culinary passion with social impact. This role is fundamentally responsible for overseeing the bakery’s day-to-day operations, including providing job training, employment opportunities, and life skills development to a diverse team comprising individuals with and without disabilities. As part of Easterseals’ mission to nurture and support all abilities, the Program Manager/Pastry Chef plays a critical leadership role in fostering an inclusive work environment where team members are empowered to achieve their highest independence.

Beyond routine bakery management, the position demands active collaboration with chef consultants to develop new products, engage in community events, and maintain a thriving business presence. The role requires meticulous attention to operational efficiency through tracking production metrics, budget management, and inventory control. The Program Manager/Pastry Chef also has the rewarding task of coaching and inspiring team members, cultivating skills, and ensuring consistent product quality. This is a fast-paced and physical position that blends creativity in culinary arts with the operational expertise of team leadership and program administration.

Strong organizational skills, technological proficiency, and a commitment to sourcing local ingredients underline the responsibilities, alongside a passion for community engagement and advocacy. The ideal candidate thrives in a supportive leadership function, driven by empathy, patience, and a dedication to creating meaningful work experiences for all bakery staff. The role uniquely offers the opportunity to influence both the success of a beloved community bakery and the livelihoods of its employees, embodying Easterseals’ core values and culture. This comprehensive position is more than managing a bakery; it is about expanding possibilities for people of all abilities through innovative programming and exemplary culinary craftsmanship.