Benjamin Cross
Byford
Summary
Versatile business owner and retail manager with over 20 years' experience spanning café ownership, bakery production, and hospitality operations. Skilled in financial oversight, team leadership, brand development, and customer engagement. Proven success in building loyal clientele, fostering collaborative cultures, and driving profitability through strategic planning and hands-on leadership.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner Operator
That Plant Café
06.2021 - Current
- Manage all daily operations including staffing, training, stock control, and regulatory compliance
- Oversee financial reporting, budgeting, and labour cost management, including superannuation-inclusive rosters
- Develop and execute branding and marketing campaigns aligned with café identity and seasonal themes
- Lead customer engagement strategies including personalized review responses and local outreach
- Prepare harm minimisation policies and complete liquor licensing documentation
- Spearhead social media initiatives and promotional events to enhance visibility
- Mentor team members and foster a collaborative, values-driven workplace culture
- Finalist in the Gold Plate Awards for two consecutive years, recognising excellence in hospitality and presentation
Childcare Cook
06.2018 - 06.2021
- Designed and prepared healthy, allergy-sensitive meal plans in line with childcare nutrition standards
- Maintained food safety, hygiene compliance, and kitchen efficiency
- Collaborated with educators to support wellness and culturally inclusive meal experiences
Owner Operator
Mmm Coffee
02.2015 - 07.2018
- Operated mobile coffee cart with a strong local customer base
- Recruited and trained staff in barista service and customer interaction
- Managed stock levels, financial records, and day-to-day business performance
Baker
Coles Supermarkets
11.2017 - 06.2018
- Supported bakery teams across multiple locations with consistent product quality and safety adherence
- Worked in fast-paced environments meeting company standards
Production Manager
Brumby's Bakery
11.2014 - 11.2017
- Directed baking operations and staff development across multiple shifts
- Conducted inventory control, adhered to waste policies, and met sales targets
- Delivered excellent service and maintained high OH&S standards
Owner Operator
Bakers Delight
02.2007 - 03.2014
- Owned and operated a high-volume retail bakery with full responsibility for staffing, payroll, and financial performance
- Trained and mentored bakers and retail staff to meet corporate quality and safety benchmarks
- Led daily production of breads, pastries, and specialty items with seasonal variation
- Monitored inventory, completed weekly stocktakes, and coordinated supplier relations
- Handled budget forecasting, daily sales reconciliation, and head office reporting
- Implemented marketing campaigns, visual merchandising, and community engagement strategies
- Introduced waste minimisation and markdown controls to improve profitability
- Mentored apprentice bakers including one nominated for the LA Judge baking awards
Education
Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) -
Clubs WA
Perth, WA01-2025
Management of Licensed Premises -
Clubs WA
Perth, WA01-2025
Barista Course - undefined
Fremantle
04.2015
Certificate III in Baking & Pastry - undefined
Bentley TAFE
02.2004
Year 12 - undefined
Willetton Senior High School
12.2000
Timeline
Owner Operator
That Plant Café
06.2021 - Current
Childcare Cook
06.2018 - 06.2021
Baker
Coles Supermarkets
11.2017 - 06.2018
Owner Operator
Mmm Coffee
02.2015 - 07.2018
Production Manager
Brumby's Bakery
11.2014 - 11.2017
Owner Operator
Bakers Delight
02.2007 - 03.2014
Barista Course - undefined
Fremantle
Certificate III in Baking & Pastry - undefined
Bentley TAFE
Year 12 - undefined
Willetton Senior High School
Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) -
Clubs WA
Management of Licensed Premises -
Clubs WA
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