Panera Bread has hired Andrew Rebhun as its new chief marketing officer, effective August 17, according to a press release. He will lead all aspects of marketing at the fast-casual chain.
Rebhun previously served as the chief marketer at Cava and El Pollo Loco. At Cava, he oversaw brand, marketing, digital, loyalty, communications, catering, and guest experience.
Andrew Rebhun will report to CEO Paul Carbone, who said Rebhun’s expertise in the restaurant industry and focus on brand building, customer engagement, loyalty, and growth strategy will be invaluable as the company continues to transform its business.
New Marketing Leadership
Rebhun’s remit will span brand and creative, digital and loyalty, media innovation, and media. He leaves Cava after a tenure of more than three years, during which the chain outperformed its competitors despite a relatively frugal marketing budget.
Cava is now seeking a new CMO focused on brand and creative. Meanwhile, previous Panera CMO Mark Shambura will depart the company this month, after helping to evolve the brand and innovate around menu.
Transformation Efforts
Shambura played a key role in launching Panera’s RISE transformation strategy, which aims to grow systemwide sales to $7 billion by 2028. Last year, the chain introduced a new campaign and tagline, “It Just Meals Good,” to reorient the brand around sit-down dining for any occasion.
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Panera has also teamed with creator Jake Shane to promote its mix-and-match value menu. As the company continues to transform its business, Rebhun’s experience and expertise will likely be key in driving marketing efforts and achieving growth goals.
With Rebhun on board, Panera Bread is poised to continue its transformation work, building on the foundation laid by Shambura and the RISE strategy. The company’s focus on brand building, customer engagement, and loyalty will be essential in driving growth and achieving its goals.
Industry Context
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Growth Strategy
The appointment of Rebhun as CMO is a significant step in Panera Bread’s growth strategy. His experience in the restaurant industry and focus on brand building, customer engagement, loyalty, and growth strategy will be invaluable as the company continues to transform its business.
As the company seeks to grow its systemwide sales to $7 billion by 2028, Rebhun’s expertise will be key in driving marketing efforts and achieving growth goals. With his leadership, Panera Bread is poised to continue its transformation work and build on the foundation laid by Shambura and the RISE strategy.
