Assistant Manager

Flynn Group entered the Panera Bread system in 2015 with the acquisition of 47 cafes and has since experienced significant growth, making it the second largest Panera franchisee in the world. This expansion stems from building new stores and acquiring other franchise operators, allowing Flynn Group to solidify its position as a leader within the industry. Flynn Panera operates on a decentralized business model, promoting leadership at various levels, from Market Leaders overseeing geographic areas to Area Directors managing multiple units and General Managers directly responsible for the day-to-day operations of each cafe. Assistant Managers and Team Managers support the overall management structure to ensure smooth and efficient cafe operations. Flynn Group is part of a larger portfolio of premier brands founded in 1999 by Greg Flynn, including renowned names like Applebee's, Arby's, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Wendy's, and even Planet Fitness. This diverse collection of franchises is managed with core values such as Caring Genuinely for People, Playing Like a Champion, and Winning as One, which guide team members in delivering exceptional service and operational excellence.

The role of a Manager at Flynn Panera's Panera Bread cafes is both dynamic and impactful. These cafes offer upscale, friendly environments where guests enjoy artisan baked breads, pastries, made-to-order soups, salads, sandwiches, and specialty espresso beverages. Unlike typical fast-food settings, Panera Bread cafes maintain a grease- and alcohol-free environment with no fryers and no late-night operations, making them unique and appealing both to customers and employees. As a Manager, you will lead a team of up to 75 staff members, fostering a high-quality service experience for guests while managing comprehensive restaurant operations. This leadership position requires someone passionate about the restaurant industry who can inspire, coach, and counsel team members while creating a profitable and welcoming environment. Maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness, sanitation, food quality, safety, and facility management is paramount.

Managers at Panera Bread are responsible for a broad spectrum of duties including business performance oversight, ordering, scheduling, labor management, marketing, facility management, bakery operations, and catering. Strategic planning and business acumen are vital for analyzing sales trends, ensuring profitability, and executing plans that sustain growth. Strong communication skills are essential as Managers serve as the primary liaison between associates and the management team, helping to develop and retain staff through coaching and documentation processes. Managers also embody the company’s values and culture while promoting a positive and authentic workplace atmosphere. This career opportunity is tailored for seasoned restaurant professionals with a steady employment history, excellent attention to detail, and superior interpersonal skills. Those who thrive in fast-paced, challenging environments will find this role highly rewarding and aligned with Flynn Panera’s mission to be premier operators within the hospitality industry.