Catering Lead

Flynn Group entered the Panera system in 2015 with the acquisition of 47 cafés. 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 operates on a decentralized business model, where each geographic area is led by a Market Leader. Reporting to the ML are Area Directors, who manage multiple units and oversee overall café functions. General Managers are the chief café managers responsible for day‑to‑day operations, assisted by Assistant Managers who run departments and handle daily management tasks.

Team Managers complete the café leadership team.

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.

As a Catering Lead, you will connect with customers, grow our catering business, and serve local communities across the country. This is a great opportunity to develop catering and sales skills and prepare for a potential career path in catering with Panera.

• Process, prepare and deliver orders to the client.
• Assist in organizing a team of employees, when needed, to execute large catering orders.
• Provide excellent customer service by following up with customers after an order is complete.
• Promptly respond to all customer calls and requests in an efficient and expedient manner.
• Manage existing accounts to ensure ongoing repeat catering sales.
• Work closely with café teams and the Regional Catering Sales Manager to uncover and pursue additional business.
• Create a targeted game plan for increasing catering sales, involving strategic planning, cold calling, presentation skills, and effective closing sales techniques.
• Utilize Outlook Calendar and other online resources to maximize organization, plan execution, and follow‑up.
• Communicate effectively via email.

• High School degree or equivalent.
• Excellent organization, customer service and time management skills.
• Enthusiasm, energy and a positive attitude.
• Ability to work well under pressure and with a diverse group of people.
• Proven track record of success.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Reference checks.

• Competitive hourly rate including tips.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Meal discounts.
• Health benefits (medical, dental, vision).
• Development opportunities.

Minimum wage up to $20/hour plus tips. Competitive wages, flexible schedules, meal discounts, medical/dental/vision benefits, and paid sick leave.

• Must be able to stand and maintain well‑paced mobility for up to ten (10) hours.
• Must safely lift items up to 50 pounds.
• Must 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 essential responsibilities of this position with or without reasonable accommodation. Associates 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 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 Panera is a growing franchise within Flynn Group that offers stability, opportunity for advancement, and a great environment, training and benefits. We are committed to helping each employee work and live to their fullest potential within a culture you won't want to quit!

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 adjustment throughout the application process, please let us know. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our premier team!