Panera Bread Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Panera Bread has 8 executives leading key functions including finance, marketing, operations, technology, human resources, and international expansion.

Driven by a commitment to quality and community, Panera Bread continuously innovates its bakery-café experience, offering fresh, wholesome food and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for guests across its extensive network.

Leadership Roles at Panera Bread

  • Vice President. Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer. Head of International. Transformation Office - Michael McDonough
  • Chief Financial Officer - Earl Ellis
  • Operations Chief Operating Officer & Vice President - John Bartlett
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Deborah Roberts
  • President - Mike Duffessy
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Mark Shambura
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer - Michael Wojcik
  • Chief People Officer - Alycia Gonzalez
  • Michael McDonough - Vice President. Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer. Head of International. Transformation Office

    Michael McDonough, the Vice President. Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer. Head of International. Transformation Office at Panera Bread, provides strategic support to the Chief Executive Officer and directs key organizational initiatives. McDonough oversees the Transformation Office, driving critical projects aimed at enhancing business processes and fostering innovation. This multifaceted role includes managing international expansion efforts, ensuring Panera Bread's global presence aligns with corporate strategy. The Vice President. Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer. Head of International. Transformation Office's responsibilities encompass facilitating communication across departments and ensuring alignment with executive priorities. Michael McDonough plays a pivotal role in executing strategic plans and optimizing organizational effectiveness. By managing complex projects and coordinating international development, McDonough contributes significantly to Panera Bread's overall strategic execution and global reach.

    Earl Ellis - Chief Financial Officer

    Earl Ellis, the Chief Financial Officer at Panera Bread, directs all financial planning, accounting, and reporting functions. Ellis oversees the company's fiscal health, managing budgets, analyzing financial performance, and identifying opportunities for cost optimization and revenue enhancement. This leadership role involves strategic financial decision-making to support Panera Bread's growth initiatives and ensure long-term profitability. Ellis works closely with other executive leaders to align financial strategies with overall business objectives, driving operational efficiency and capital allocation. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to managing investor relations and securing funding for expansion projects. By meticulously monitoring market trends and economic conditions, Earl Ellis safeguards the company's financial stability and guides its strategic financial direction, ensuring robust performance across all operational segments.
    Earl Ellis

    John Bartlett - Operations Chief Operating Officer & Vice President

    John Bartlett, the Operations Chief Operating Officer & Vice President at Panera Bread, directs the day-to-day operational execution across all restaurant locations. Bartlett oversees supply chain management, restaurant operations, and service standards, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency. This leadership position involves optimizing operational workflows, implementing best practices, and driving performance improvements throughout the store network. The Operations Chief Operating Officer & Vice President's focus is on enhancing the guest experience through seamless service delivery and operational excellence. John Bartlett collaborates with regional managers and store leadership to address operational challenges and capitalize on opportunities for efficiency gains. By maintaining rigorous standards and fostering a culture of operational discipline, Bartlett ensures Panera Bread's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is met across its extensive footprint.

    Deborah Roberts - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Deborah Roberts, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Panera Bread, spearheads strategic operational initiatives and oversees the company's extensive network of cafés. Roberts directs efforts to enhance operational efficiency, streamline processes, and ensure consistent brand standards across all locations. This executive role involves driving innovation in operational models and service delivery to elevate the customer experience. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing key performance indicators, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and implementing strategic plans that support Panera Bread's growth objectives. Deborah Roberts works closely with supply chain, culinary, and field operations teams to achieve operational excellence. By focusing on scalable solutions and continuous improvement, Roberts ensures the robust functioning of Panera Bread's operations, reinforcing its market position.

    Mike Duffessy - President

    Mike Duffessy, the President at Panera Bread, provides executive leadership and strategic direction across the organization. Duffessy oversees key business operations, driving initiatives that enhance brand performance and market presence. This leadership role involves guiding strategic planning, fostering innovation, and ensuring operational excellence throughout the company's extensive network. The President's focus is on achieving sustainable growth and maximizing shareholder value by aligning departmental efforts with corporate vision. Mike Duffessy collaborates closely with the executive team to identify new opportunities and address challenges, ensuring Panera Bread maintains its competitive edge. By championing the company's mission and values, Duffessy plays a crucial role in steering Panera Bread toward continued success and market leadership.

    Mark Shambura - Chief Marketing Officer

    Mark Shambura, the Chief Marketing Officer at Panera Bread, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement. Shambura leads initiatives focused on digital marketing, advertising campaigns, and brand positioning, ensuring Panera Bread's message resonates with its target audience. This executive oversees market research and consumer insights to inform product development and promotional activities. The Chief Marketing Officer's role is critical in driving customer acquisition and retention through innovative campaigns and loyalty programs. Mark Shambura collaborates with operations and culinary teams to ensure marketing efforts align with product offerings and customer experience. By analyzing market dynamics and competitive landscapes, Shambura guides the brand's evolution, solidifying Panera Bread's market leadership and fostering strong customer relationships.
    Mark Shambura

    Michael Wojcik - Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer

    Michael Wojcik, the Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer at Panera Bread, leads the company's technology strategy and digital transformation efforts. Wojcik oversees the development and implementation of innovative technology solutions that enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and support business growth. This executive role involves managing the IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data analytics functions, ensuring robust and secure technological systems. The Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer's focus is on leveraging technology to drive competitive advantage and operational efficiency. Michael Wojcik collaborates with all departments to identify technology needs and deliver solutions that align with Panera Bread's strategic goals. By championing digital innovation, Wojcik ensures the company remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the restaurant industry.

    Alycia Gonzalez - Chief People Officer

    Alycia Gonzalez, the Chief People Officer at Panera Bread, directs all human resources functions, including talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture. Gonzalez oversees strategies for attracting, retaining, and engaging a high-performing workforce, ensuring Panera Bread fosters a supportive and inclusive environment. This executive role is critical in shaping the employee experience and aligning HR initiatives with the company's overall business objectives. The Chief People Officer's responsibilities include developing competitive compensation and benefits programs, managing employee relations, and championing diversity and inclusion efforts. Alycia Gonzalez collaborates with leadership across the organization to build a strong talent pipeline and promote professional growth. By focusing on people-centric strategies, Gonzalez ensures Panera Bread cultivates a motivated and dedicated team essential for its success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Panera Bread Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Panera Bread?
    Panera Bread is led by Michael McDonough (Vice President. Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer. Head of International. Transformation Office), along with executives such as Earl Ellis (Chief Financial Officer) and John Bartlett (Operations Chief Operating Officer & Vice President).
    Who is part of Panera Bread’s executive team?
    The executive team of Panera Bread includes leaders such as Michael McDonough (Vice President. Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer. Head of International. Transformation Office), Earl Ellis (Chief Financial Officer), John Bartlett (Operations Chief Operating Officer & Vice President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Panera Bread have?
    Panera Bread has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Panera Bread’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Panera Bread includes roles such as Vice President. Chief of Staff To Chief Executive Officer. Head of International. Transformation Office, Chief Financial Officer, Operations Chief Operating Officer & Vice President, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, President.