Panera Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Flynn Group entered the Panera system in 2015 with the acquisition of 47 cafes. Since then, we have more than tripled in size to become the 2nd largest Panera franchisee in the world and continue to grow by building new stores and acquiring other franchise operators.  

Flynn Panera is a franchisee of Panera Bread. Flynn Panera is built on a decentralized business model, which means that each geographic area is led by a Market Leader. Reporting to the ML are Area Directors, who are multiple unit operators, responsible for the overall functions of the cafés in their areas. Reporting to the Area Directors are the General Managers, who are the chief Cafe managers responsible for the overall running of their café. Aiding the management of the Cafe are Assistant Managers, who are responsible for running of their departments and who help with every-day management responsibilities. Rounding out the cafe leadership are Team Managers.  

We strive to hire only the best, starting with our leadership. Our leaders within Flynn Panera have over 190+ years of experience in the restaurant industry, and 60+ years with Flynn Group. 

We are one of seven premier brands of Flynn Group, which was founded in 1999 by Greg Flynn. It has grown since then to the largest franchise operator in the world. Flynn owns and operates a diversified portfolio of restaurants in iconic, world class brands across diverse segments, including Applebee’s, Arby’s, Panera Bread, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Wendy’s and Planet Fitness. Our primary mission is to be the premier operator within each of these brands. We will achieve this by focusing on our core values; Care Genuinely for People, Play like a Champion, and Win as One. 

Position Description 

Our Panera Bread cafes are upscale, friendly cafes which feature baked breads and pastries. We serve made-to-order soups, salads and sandwiches as well as specialty espresso beverages.  

No Fryers and No Late Nights. We’re known for our artisan breads, quality soups, salads and sandwiches which results in a grease and alcohol-free environment for our associates. As a manager, this means no late nights, but we do hope you’re a morning person. 

Managers at our growing cafes supervise up to 75 staff members to ensure a top quality service experience for our guests 

• As a Manager at Panera Bread you would be responsible for providing outstanding leadership to your team. 
• You should be passionate about the industry, inspiring others, coaching, counseling, creating a profitable environment, and delivering an exceptional customer experience. 
• Our Managers must maintain high standards of restaurant cleanliness, sanitation, food quality and safety, and facility management. At Panera Bread, warmth is our business. It's what we do best. We look for like-minded individuals who are ready to surround themselves with fresh food and great people. 
• We are looking for experienced restaurant professionals with a steady, stable employment track record, attention to detail, and outstanding interpersonal skills. This is an outstanding opportunity to join a rapidly growing concept. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Restaurant management combines strategic planning, shift organization and day-to-day management activities. At Panera Bread, restaurant management is fast paced, highly demanding and very rewarding.  

Typical work activities for Restaurant Managers:  

• Taking responsibility for the overall business performance of the restaurant, including ordering, scheduling, labor management, marketing, facilities management, bakery operations, and catering. 
• Analyzing and planning restaurant sales levels and profitability 
• Creating and executing plans for sustained profitability 
• Primary conduit of information between the associate and the management team 
• Retaining and developing the team members and managers 
• Manages a budget and controlling costs 
• Coordinating the entire operation of the restaurant during scheduled shifts 
• Greeting customers and doing table visits to ensure customer satisfaction 
• Inspire associates to have fun and be their authentic selves while generating high productivity 
• Coach and mentor associates through One-on-One’s, Performance Documentation and Performance Reviews 
• Anticipates problems and takes action to prevent them 
• Serve as the primary resource for resolving associate questions 
• Serves as a primary specialist within the bakery‐cafe, ensuring associates are properly trained and fully 

competent in all aspects of food service and customer support:  

• Recruiting and training staff to meet staffing par levels 
• Ensures objectives are achieved while operating within all company guidelines, cultural values and following ethical business practices. 
• Exhibits a professional image. Promotes and embodies our Values and Beliefs as outlined on the Premier Card. 

Education and Experience 

• At least 2-3 years Hospitality Management experience 
• A degree or equivalent experience in Hospitality or Hotel/Restaurant Management is preferred 
• Food Management Certifications also a plus 
• Must have the “Run it Like you Own It Mentality” 

Perks for our employees: 

• Competitive wages 
• Profit Sharing (varies by Market) 
• Meal Discounts 
• Medical, dental and vision insurance available the month after you start 
• 401(k) plan with a company match 
• Paid vacation 
• Development opportunities 

Physical Standards: 

• Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to ten (10) hours in length. 
• Must have the ability to safely lift pots, pans, glassware, boxes, etc. up to 50 pounds in weight. 
• Must be able to read and write to facilitate communication. 
• Must possess finger and hand dexterity for using small tools and equipment. 

The associate is responsible for performing the crucial responsibilities of this position with or without reasonable accommodation. The associate should notify Flynn Panera of any reasonable accommodation requests and may need to provide supporting medical documentation. This job description may not list all duties for this position and the associate in this position may be required to perform other duties to meet business needs. Flynn Panera, reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. This job description is not a contract for employment, and either the associate or Flynn Panera may terminate employment at any time. 

Flynn Group is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and providing reasonable accommodations/adjustments for individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodation or adjustments throughout the application process, please let us know. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our premier team!