Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, demonstrating integrity and respect while acting responsibly? Do you embrace a growth mindset? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional. 

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences located in prime destinations around the world, with a strong development pipeline. Increasingly recognized for creating some of the world’s most sought-after properties, the Group provides legendary service inspired by Asian heritage whilst representing the very cutting-edge of luxury experiences.

Mandarin Oriental, Makati is an upcoming 5-star luxury hotel set within the lush Ayala Triangle Gardens, at the prestigious corner of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue. Scheduled to open in 2026, this landmark development will feature 276 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, offering a refined blend of contemporary design and timeless sophistication. Guests will enjoy an exceptional array of world-class amenities, including a curated selection of restaurants, a stylish bar, a serene pool area, and the brand’s signature spa. Designed to be a sanctuary in the heart of the city, the hotel promises an elevated experience for both leisure and business travelers seeking comfort, excellence, and distinction in Manila.

About the job

The Head Baker is responsible for leading all bakery operations at Mandarin Oriental Makati, ensuring the consistent production of exceptional artisanal breads, viennoiseries, laminated doughs, breakfast pastries, and specialty baked products that reflect the legendary standards of Mandarin Oriental.

The Role

The Head Baker oversees product development, food quality, hygiene compliance, cost control, colleague training, and daily bakery production to support all hotel outlets, banquets, in-room dining, and special events. The Head Baker serves as both a craftsman and leader, fostering a culture of excellence, creativity, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Bakery Production & Quality Excellence

• Lead and supervise the daily bakery production operation.
• Produce premium artisan breads, sourdoughs, baguettes, rolls, croissants, Danish pastries, brioche, and specialty baked products.
• Ensure all bakery items meet Mandarin Oriental's luxury quality, presentation, and consistency standards.
• Develop seasonal bakery offerings and signature products aligned with the hotel's culinary vision.
• Maintain consistency in recipes, portion control, flavor profiles, and presentation standards.
• Monitor product freshness, shelf life, and quality throughout service periods.
• Collaborate with the Pastry and Culinary teams to create innovative bakery items for restaurants, lounges, banquets, and VIP amenities.

Leadership & Team Development

• Supervise, coach, and mentor Bakery Chefs, Bakers, Commis, and trainees.
• Conduct regular on-the-job training and skills development sessions.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, safety, and continuous learning.
• Participate in recruitment, onboarding, performance evaluations, and succession planning.
• Ensure colleagues adhere to grooming, attendance, and behavioral standards.

Menu Development & Innovation

• Research global baking trends and introduce innovative concepts appropriate for a luxury hospitality environment.
• Develop signature breads and bakery items unique to Mandarin Oriental Makati.
• Support themed events, festive promotions, afternoon tea offerings, and special culinary experiences.
• Work closely with Culinary and F&B leadership on menu enhancements and product launches.

Food Safety & Hygiene

• Ensure strict compliance with HACCP, sanitation, and food safety standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of bakery production areas and equipment.
• Conduct regular quality inspections and ensure proper product labeling and storage.
• Enforce safe work practices and proper handling procedures.
• Support all internal and external food safety audits.

Financial & Operational Management

• Monitor bakery food costs, labor costs, and productivity targets.
• Manage inventory levels and minimize waste through effective planning.
• Prepare purchase requisitions and review supplier quality.
• Ensure proper utilization and maintenance of bakery equipment.
• Contribute to budget preparation and monthly forecasting.
• Maximize operational efficiency while maintaining luxury quality standards.

Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with:
• Executive Chef
• Executive Pastry Chef
• Outlet Chefs
• Banquet Kitchen Team
• Stewarding
• Purchasing Department
• Food Safety Team
• Support hotel-wide culinary initiatives and special events.

Occupational Health & Safety

• Comply with all company health, safety, and security policies.
• Ensure safe operation of bakery machinery and equipment.
• Report hazards, incidents, and equipment malfunctions promptly.
• Maintain a safe and professional working environment.

Qualifications

Education

• Culinary Diploma, Bakery Arts Certification, or equivalent professional qualification preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 3-5 years of progressive bakery experience in luxury hotels, fine dining establishments, artisan bakeries, or premium hospitality environments.
• Minimum of 2-3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Pre-opening experience in luxury hospitality is an advantage.
• Experience producing high-volume and premium artisan bakery products.

Technical Skills

• Expertise in:
• Artisan bread production
• Sourdough fermentation
• Laminated doughs
• Viennoiserie
• Specialty breads
• Breakfast pastries
• Bakery production planning
• Strong understanding of HACCP and food safety standards.
• Knowledge of recipe costing, inventory management, and production control.
• Familiarity with modern baking equipment and bakery technologies.

Personal Competencies

• Passion for craftsmanship and excellence.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills.
• High attention to detail.
• Creativity and innovation.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced luxury hospitality environment.
• Commitment to the values and service culture of Mandarin Oriental.

Mandarin Oriental Leadership Competencies

The Head Baker is expected to:

• Demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
• Lead with humility, professionalism, and integrity.
• Inspire colleagues through coaching and mentorship.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Deliver memorable guest experiences through culinary excellence.
• Embrace the Mandarin Oriental philosophy of being a Master of Craft in every aspect of bakery operations.

"Exceptional bread is never simply baked; it is crafted with passion, precision, and care, creating memorable moments for every guest."

Why Join Us?

Mandarin Oriental offers a world‑class environment where your expertise, creativity, and leadership will shape the legacy of our return to Manila. You will be part of a dynamic pre‑opening team committed to excellence, innovation, and authentic Asian hospitality.

Our commitment to you:

• Learning & Development. Your success is our success. We craft unique learning and development programmes for various stages in your career so that you grow, continuously.
• MOstay. When you work as hard as our colleagues do, it’s important to take time off. As a member of the #MOfamily, you can stay with us wherever you go in the world. The MOstay programme offers complimentary nights and additionally attractive rates on rooms for you and your loved ones.
• Heath & Colleague Wellness. Finding the right work-life balance is important. Your wellbeing matters to us. A variety of health benefits and wellness programmes are offered to all our colleagues, globally.

We’re Fans. Are you?