Director, Retail Operations
Not Disclosed•Full-TimeOn-site
location_onOn-site
About the Team
At Panera, we strive to create a healthier and happier world. We run best-in-class operations guided by tried-and-true restaurant practices, always striving to innovate for our guests and our associates. Our platform group ensures that every bakery-cafe delivers on brand objectives, translating them into great experiences that build trust, loyalty, and value in the market.
About the Role
The Director, Retail Operations serves as the strategic owner for the Rochester/Minneapolis market, responsible for delivering world-class execution of Panera's operational expectations. This role exists to bridge the gap between high-level brand objectives and the daily reality of our cafes and associates.
You will act as a leader of leaders, developing management teams to create environments where every associate can show up authentically. Your day involves translating brand priorities into actionable strategies for guest service, food quality, safety, and profitability. As a proactive partner, you will collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, HR, and Business Development to drive discipline around channel execution. Ultimately, you are the champion for achieving results through the sustained management of new products, processes, and programs, ensuring the market's established goals are met while protecting Panera's brand identity.
Hiring Process
- Initial Review: Application review by the Saint Louis Support Center team.
- Screening: A discussion regarding your background and alignment with Panera's Guiding Values.
- Interview: A deep-dive conversation focusing on leadership competencies, strategic planning, and operational execution.
- Final Decision: Offer and onboarding.
Equal Opportunity & Culture
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and engaging work environment where every associate can show up authentically, free of discrimination and harassment. Panera considers qualified applicants regardless of background and is dedicated to DE&I practices throughout recruitment, selection, and development.
Location & Travel
This role is based in the Rochester/Minneapolis, MN market. The position requires up to 95% travel within the market and some overnight travel for cafe visits based on geography and company meetings. Occasional out-of-market travel for business needs may be required.
Work location
Work model: On-site
On-site
Key Responsibilities
- check_circleCreate market strategy and vision to achieve Panera operational standards and profitability goals
- check_circleCoach and develop cafe management teams to drive execution of business results and sales growth
- check_circleCollaborate cross-functionally with Operations, HR, and business development to support market initiatives
- check_circleDevelop and maintain a talent pipeline through recruitment, succession planning, and performance management
- check_circleEnsure cafe compliance with operational standards, federal laws, and workplace safety regulations
- check_circleFoster an inclusive work environment that upholds brand identity and eliminates discrimination
Requirements
- verifiedFirm understanding of business outcomes (sales drivers, profit drivers, reading P&L and financial reports)
- verifiedProficient with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- verifiedMust have a strong work ethic, with the ability to work long and unusual hours
Nice to Have
Multi-unit experience or related experience. Some college education, certification, or related experience.
Similar Job Opportunities
Skills, education and keywords
Skills: Microsoft Office, Outlook, Excel, Powerpoint.
Education: Some college education or certification preferred, but not required.
Frequently asked questions about Director, Retail Operations at Panera Bread
What does a Director, Retail Operations at Panera Bread do?expand_more
A Director, Retail Operations at Panera Bread is responsible for the following: Create market strategy and vision to achieve Panera operational standards and profitability goals; Coach and develop cafe management teams to drive execution of business results and sales growth; Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, HR, and business development to support market initiatives; and Develop and maintain a talent pipeline through recruitment, succession planning, and performance management.
What are the requirements for this Director, Retail Operations role?expand_more
Panera Bread is looking for candidates who meet the following requirements: Firm understanding of business outcomes (sales drivers, profit drivers, reading P&L and financial reports); Proficient with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint); and Must have a strong work ethic, with the ability to work long and unusual hours.
Where is the Director, Retail Operations role at Panera Bread located?expand_more
Director, Retail Operations at Panera Bread is based in On-site. This is a on-site role.
Is this Director, Retail Operations job remote, hybrid, or on-site?expand_more
Panera Bread has listed this Director, Retail Operations role as on-site.
How much experience is required for this Director, Retail Operations role?expand_more
Candidates for Director, Retail Operations at Panera Bread should have executive.
What skills do you need for the Director, Retail Operations role at Panera Bread?expand_more
Key skills for Director, Retail Operations at Panera Bread include Microsoft Office; Outlook; Excel; and Powerpoint.
What education is required for Director, Retail Operations at Panera Bread?expand_more
Educational requirements for this role: Some college education or certification preferred, but not required.
What category does the Director, Retail Operations role belong to?expand_more
Director, Retail Operations at Panera Bread is part of the hospitality & catering job category on Recrutus.