WHAT WE DO

El Alba Cooperative is a mission-driven start-up dedicated to empowering Aurora-based food entrepreneurs and small business owners by providing culturally relevant business incubation and shared services through a cooperative model. Since 2020, we’ve focused on closing service gaps and fostering economic opportunities for immigrant and underrepresented business owners. We are now seeking a results-driven Kitchen Operations and Business Development Manager to lead operations, business development, and marketing efforts. This key role will oversee kitchen functions, manage member services, collaborate with stakeholders, and drive the cooperative’s growth and sustainability as a thriving food service business.

THE OPPORTUNITY

This Kitchen Operations and Business Development Manager role is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of El Alba Cooperative as a thriving food service business and community hub. By leading operational efficiency, developing business opportunities, and supporting cooperative members, the Kitchen Operations and Business Development Manager will directly contribute to the organization’s growth and financial sustainability. This role will enhance the cooperative’s ability to empower local food entrepreneurs, create economic opportunities for underserved communities, and drive community wealth-building efforts in Aurora. The impact of this position will be felt through strengthened operations, increased revenue, and the advancement of El Alba’s mission to support equitable economic development.

This is an in-office role requiring 5 days a week in our Aurora-based commissary kitchen, with occasional weekend hours (flex schedule will apply in these cases).

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

Business and Operations Development

• Establish and manage new business opportunities and contracts for El Alba Cooperative.
• Conduct administrative duties, including marketing and promotion, along with responding to phone, email, and website inquiries promptly and professionally.
• Track inventory, order products, and manage supplies to ensure maintenance and upkeep of food service equipment and facilities.

Project Planning and Execution

• Implement and oversee an efficient commissary kitchen system, including equitable scheduling, supervision, and routine maintenance.
• Coordinate kitchen operations, ensuring members have proper business documentation and certifications.
• Support the development of retail area operations and the apprenticeship program.

Financial Management

• Monitor project budgets, track expenses, and ensure financial accountability in consultation with the accountant and Executive Director.
• Manage accounts and contractual obligations, ensuring proper tracking, completion, and progress reporting.
• Develop and implement strategies to maximize revenue from the commissary kitchen, retail space, and cooperative ventures.

Cooperative Member Support

• Serve as the main point of contact for cooperative members and non-member clients, providing support and resources.
• Oversee member onboarding, training, and business plan development with a focus on safety protocols, licensing, and kitchen use policies.
• Offer guidance on marketing, financial management, and business growth.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO OUR ORGANIZATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3-5 years of experience in project management, business development, sales, or entrepreneurship.
• Strong understanding of cooperative business models, economic justice, and challenges faced by underserved communities.
• Experience in a kitchen setting preferred.
• Proven ability to drive business growth and manage multiple projects within budget and timelines.
• Financial expertise, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and networking skills.
• Proficiency with project management and business development tools (e.g., CRM systems, Optix, Food Corridor, Square, Toast, Commissary, etc.).
• Bilingual in English and Spanish (or other relevant languages) is highly preferred.

WHAT OUR ORGANIZATION IS PROVIDING

• Expected annual salary: $65,000–$70,000, based on experience.
• Monthly health care stipend.
• Paid time off.
• Paid sick leave.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Opportunity for growth and to make a meaningful impact on the Aurora community by supporting local food entrepreneurs and advancing community wealth-building initiatives.

El Alba Cooperative provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetics, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. In addition to federal law requirements, El Alba Cooperative complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

El Alba Cooperative will not discriminate or retaliate against applicants for failing to disclose wage rate history in accordance with applicable law.

El Alba Cooperative expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, marital status, disability or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of El Alba Cooperative employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.

Salary : $65,000 - $70,000