Starter Leadership Development Program
At Panera, we're committed to growing the next generation of business leaders. The Starter Leadership Development Program is an 18-month rotational experience designed for recent graduates who are eager to accelerate their careers, gain enterprise-wide exposure, and make a meaningful impact from day one.
As a Starter, you'll complete multiple rotations across the business, partnering with leaders and teams to support key priorities aligned to Panera RISE, our business strategy. Through hands-on project work, mentorship, professional development, and cross-functional experiences, you'll build a deep understanding of how Panera operates while developing the skills needed to thrive in a fast-paced corporate environment.
By the end of the program, you'll have a strong network, a broad business foundation, and the experience needed to launch the next stage of your career at Panera.
We are looking for upcoming graduates who are ready to be All In with Panera as we continue transforming our business, and who are aligned to our values of Quality Matters, Hunger for More, Ownership Always, Warmth for All, and Teamwork First
Program Details
Program Start Date: July 2027
Program Length: 18 months
Employment Type: Full-time, salaried position with benefits
Program Pay: Competitive pay at $80,000.00 annually and 20% bonus potential
Schedule: 40 hours per week
Application Deadline: October 1, 2026 (applications reviewed on a rolling basis)
Hybrid Work: Minimum of 3 days per week onsite at our Newton, MA Support Center. Company headquarters is expected to relocate to Weston, MA in July 2027 with a 4-day per week onsite requirement.
What You'll Do
Throughout the program, you'll gain exposure to multiple areas of the business while contributing to meaningful work that supports Panera's strategic priorities. Starters should bring their curiosity, innovation, and a growth mindset to every rotation and assignment.
Responsibilities include, but not limited to:
Basic Qualifications
The actual pay offered will be determined by multiple factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s relevant experience, job-related knowledge, skills, and geographical location. Individual compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate.
Newton Support Center