Assistant Manager

Flynn Group has established itself as a powerhouse within the restaurant franchise industry, especially known for its impressive growth and expert management capabilities. Entering the Panera Bread system in 2015 through the acquisition of 47 cafes, Flynn Group has since more than tripled its size, becoming the second largest Panera franchisee globally. This growth reflects the company’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and strategic expansion through both the development of new stores and acquisitions of other franchise operators. Flynn Panera operates with a decentralized business model, empowering local market leaders to guide operations effectively while maintaining high standards across its numerous locations. As a franchisee of Panera Bread, Flynn Panera maintains a strong focus on delivering quality food and exceptional customer experiences in a friendly upscale cafe environment known for artisan breads, quality soups, salads, and sandwiches, complemented by specialty espresso beverages. The cafes operated by Flynn Panera emphasize a grease and alcohol-free environment – a unique value proposition ensuring a healthy and welcoming atmosphere for both customers and associates. The organizational structure consists of Market Leaders, Area Directors managing multiple units, General Managers responsible for individual cafes, Assistant Managers overseeing departmental operations, and Team Managers supporting day-to-day activities. The leadership collectively embodies over 190 years of restaurant industry experience, making Flynn Panera’s team a blend of seasoned professionals dedicated to fostering growth, supporting their employees, and upholding the brand’s high-quality standards. Flynn Group itself, founded in 1999 by Greg Flynn, is the world’s largest franchise operator, managing a diversified portfolio that spans across several iconic brands, including Applebee’s, Arby’s, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Wendy’s, and Planet Fitness, alongside Panera Bread. The company’s core mission is to be the premier operator within each brand it manages, driven by core values such as genuinely caring for people, playing like champions, and winning as one team.

The role of a Manager at Flynn Panera is both dynamic and rewarding, requiring a leader passionate about the restaurant industry and skilled at inspiring their teams. This position oversees up to 75 staff members and is critical in ensuring that all cafes deliver unparalleled customer service and maintain operational excellence. Managers at Flynn Panera are expected to be hands-on leaders who motivate, coach, and mentor their teams, creating an environment that promotes profitability while delivering a memorable guest experience. They uphold high standards of cleanliness, sanitation, food quality, safety, and facility management, which are integral to maintaining the brand’s reputation. The role is unique in its operational hours and environment, with no fryers or late nights expected, catering to morning-oriented professionals who thrive during daytime shifts. Responsibilities also include managing budgets, controlling costs, scheduling, marketing, bakery operations, and catering services. Managers act as the primary link between associates and the broader management team, fostering communication, retention, and development of team members while solving problems proactively. This management role not only focuses on the day-to-day operation but also on long-term strategies for sustained profitability and operational success. Candidates with a history of steady employment, attention to detail, and excellent interpersonal skills will find this an excellent opportunity to grow their careers within a rapidly expanding and respected concept. Flynn Panera’s commitment to its employees is demonstrated through competitive wages, profit sharing, comprehensive insurance options, 401(k) plans with company match, paid vacations, and development opportunities, ensuring a supportive and rewarding work environment.