General Manager

About the Role General Manager at Panera Café is the heart of the bakery‑cafe, responsible for leading a team, ensuring guest satisfaction, and driving profitability. The role requires ultimate accountability for the cafe’s success through decision‑making, problem solving, and exemplifying Panera’s values. Responsibilities Build a culture of Warmth, Belonging, Growth, and Trust. Act as an ambassador for Panera’s Guiding Values: Warmth for guests, Bold thoughts & brave actions, Own it, Win together, Inspire & celebrate, Rooted in respect. Ensure extraordinary guest experiences by delivering quality food, service, staff, and safety standards. Build long‑term relationships with customers and promote loyalty. Own all aspects of leading, managing, and developing the team, including staffing, shift scheduling, career development, and succession planning. Lead ongoing training programs for people development, coaching, prioritization, and creative problem solving. Hire, train, and motivate new team members; keep the team engaged and energized. Manage team performance to meet cafe goals and quality standards while maintaining exceptional customer service. Develop subject‑matter experts within the cafe by coaching managers and associates and delegating responsibilities. Recognize and celebrate individual and team achievements. Ensure high‑quality operations and service, maintaining and continually improving Panera’s standards of excellence. Lead operational upgrades as needed to improve service and efficiency. Motivate the team to meet and exceed the cafe’s goals. Adhere to operational systems, processes, company policies, and all state and federal regulations. Coach team members on operational standards and food‑safety compliance. Maintain a healthy and safe workplace culture. Grow sales and maximize profitability by executing company and cafe sales strategies. Manage associate labor to support cafe profitability. Maintain cafe costs and inventory. Qualifications Three years of management experience (preferred). Proven ability to direct, motivate, coach, and develop others in a fast‑paced environment. Proven ability to drive positive results and run effective shifts. Demonstrated understanding of the business and its operations. ServSafe certification. Minimum age of 18 years. Commitment to health and food safety standards. Ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends. Excellent communication skills and a calm, fair demeanor under pressure. Benefits Competitive pay. Eligible for quarterly bonus. Free meals on shifts. Career growth opportunities. Paid vacation and holidays for full‑time team members. Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and 401(k) with match available. Equal Opportunity Employer Panera Bread is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are proud to offer a work environment that encourages and respects all employees, regardless of disability, veteran status, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, or any other protected characteristic. #J-18808-Ljbffr