In times of change we reflect on the past and plan for the future. Making sense of what we have been through is important in growing the business.
I’ve spent the past three and a half years helping to build operations for The Women’s Bakery in Rwanda. It was more than just a job to me. Little pieces of me are intertwined in the fabric of the business such as obscure interview questions, my old books for sale in the Flagship café, and professional development courses on knitting. I feel lucky to have been a part of building a business that has had such a positive impact on the lives of women. And, I am even more excited that there are fabulous groups of women running all our bakeries and corporate operations.
While I am sad to leave, I am confident and excited for what lies ahead for The Women’s Bakery. Change is the cornerstone of growth. And, I expect, impactful changes for the company moving forward.
In the past three months we have been able to install Bakery Operations Managers and Program Managers at our Gicumbi, Kagina, and Kigali bakeries. We have successfully transitioned a Program Manager to Deputy Director of Operations. And, five out of seven Bakery Operations Managers, Program Managers, and operations staff have been working at The Women’s Bakery for more than a year. They are well equipped to lead The Women’s Bakery into its next chapter of growth.
Some things our supporters in the U.S. and customers in Rwanda can look forward to in our next chapter include advanced inventory tracking systems, creative marketing tactics, enhanced skills development for Bakery Operations Managers, and improved ovens and mixers to cut production time.
What will make all these things possible is The Women’s Bakery team. And, I couldn’t be more excited for the hardworking and passionate team we have in place and for the contributions they will make. Let the business rise #breadpower.
