Panera Bread Welcomes New Marketing and Culinary Leaders to Drive Innovation Forward
Panera Bread, an influential player in the fast casual dining sector, has recently announced the addition of two prominent figures to their leadership team: Robin Seward and Scott Uehlein. This strategic move aims to enhance their marketing and culinary departments as the company gears up for its next phase of innovation and growth.
Leadership Appointments
Starting in January 2025, Robin Seward will take on the role of Senior Vice President for Brand and Integrated Marketing. Seward is well-known for her deep expertise in the restaurant industry, having previously held significant roles such as Senior Vice President of Marketing at Subway and Chief Marketing Officer at Schlotzsky's Austin Eatery, Rita's Italian Ice, and Arby's. In her new position at Panera, Seward will oversee all facets of strategic marketing, including consumer insights, product strategies, and category expansion. Additionally, she will manage the company's Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) business, leveraging her extensive experience to propel Panera's brand forward.
Scott Uehlein joins Panera as Vice President of Culinary, bringing three decades of culinary experience to the table. He has held executive culinary positions in renowned companies, including Vice President of Culinary at Papa John’s, MOD Pizza, and Sonic. Uehlein's vast experience will be invaluable as he leads the menu development and innovation for Panera’s offerings. His educational background includes training from the Culinary Institute of America, which complements his impressive career in crafting exceptional dining experiences.
Driving Innovation and Growth
Mark Shambura, Panera’s Chief Marketing Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the new appointments, stating, "I am excited to welcome Robin and Scott to an already stellar group of marketing leaders at Panera. They will be instrumental as we focus on innovating this year through our marketing strategy and our menu offerings. I'm thrilled for them to join our team and look forward to what's coming next."
This transition in leadership comes at a time when the fast casual dining market continues to evolve, with consumers increasingly seeking fresh, quality, and innovative dining experiences. Panera Bread, founded in 1987, has established itself as a pioneer in the fast casual space, consistently aiming to provide delightful culinary options made from high-quality ingredients.
About Panera Bread
The story of Panera Bread began with a unique sourdough starter and a simple belief that bread tastes best when shared. From this vision, the brand has evolved into a household name with over 2,200 cafes across the United States and Canada. Each menu item is crafted with care, focusing on nutritious and satisfying meals, which include their famed soups, salads, sandwiches, and a range of sweet treats. The commitment to quality ingredients ensures that diners not only enjoy great food but also feel good about their choices. As a part of Panera Brands, the company also encompasses Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bros. Bagels, offering a diverse range of options catering to various preferences.
Panera's core mission remains the same: to inspire community and connection through shared meals, making each dining experience memorable. With the new leadership in place, Panera Bread is undoubtedly excited about the future and the innovations that lie ahead, ensuring they continue to be a beloved choice for those seeking quality in fast casual dining.