Panera Bread has appointed Lauren Cody, most recently a McDonald’s executive, as the brand’s new chief of staff and chief customer officer, the company announced Wednesday.
Cody spent 13 years at McDonald’s, working as managing director of the Norwegian market, vice president of strategy and insights for the UK, and, most recently, as corporate vice president.
At Panera, Cody will drive strategy for the fast casual’s Customer Care division with the goal of “becoming one of the most customer-responsive brands in the industry,” CEO Niren Chaudhary said in a statement.
“To join the executive team at Panera at such a pivotal time in our industry is an exciting challenge,” Cody said. “Customers are consistently raising the bar for their favorite brands and Panera is well-positioned to exceed our guest expectations. I look forward to helping drive the strategy as Panera continues its tradition of innovation and leadership in the food industry.”
Panera has been shaking up its C-suite in recent months. Earlier this month, the chain announced the hiring of McDonald’s veteran Debbie Roberts as COO. In May, former Kraft Heinz executive Eduardo Luz joined on as chief brand and concept officer.
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