ST. LOUIS — Panera Brands Inc. has named former chief executive officer of Restaurant Brands International (RBI) Jose Cil as chairman of its board of directors. Cil succeeds Patrick Grismer, who has been the company’s independent board chair since November 2024.

As chairman, Cil will help drive growth and differentiated value and experiences for the company’s guests, according to Panera Brands Inc.

“Jose brings to Panera more than two decades of restaurant industry leadership experience and an impressive track record of innovation and execution to Panera, and I’m tremendously excited to work alongside him to continue powering our growth,” said Paul Carbone, CEO of Panera Brands. “I look forward to working with Jose and the leadership team to build a strong culture, to deliver an exceptional guest experience and to drive franchise profitability. I would also like to thank Patrick for all of his partnership during his time on the board and wish him the very best.”

Prior to joining Panera Brands, Cil most recently was CEO of RBI.

Cil also held various leadership positions while at Burger King for RBI that included global president of Burger King and president of Burger King EMEA.

Before becoming Panera Brand’s board chair, Grismer most recently was chief financial officer in residence for EY Contact. Grismer also has been CFO at such companies as Starbucks, Hyatt Hotels Corp. and Yum! Brands.

Grismer was promoted from audit committee chair to board chair for Panera Brands in November 2024.

Grismer held multiple roles on the company’s board since 2022. Positions included audit committee chair and lead independent director.