ST. LOUIS — Roger C. Matthews Jr. has been named executive vice-president and chief financial officer of Panera Bread Co., effective March 18.

Mr. Matthews will bring to Panera more than 15 years of strategic and financial expertise from his time at Goldman Sachs where he was the senior relationship banker for more than 40 restaurant, consumer and retail clients. Most recently, he was managing director and sector head of the U.S. restaurant industry in Goldman Sachs’ Investment Banking Division.

“Panera is extremely fortunate to have an executive of Roger’s caliber join our company and management team,” said Ron Shaich, chairman of the board and co-chief executive officer. “Panera has already benefitted from Roger’s deep expertise and critical thinking over the past 15 years. Moreover, during this time we have developed a strong connection, built upon a foundation of profound respect and shared values.”

Before joining Goldman Sachs in 1996, Mr. Matthews held various positions at J.P. Morgan Securities, Inc. He received a bachelor’s of science degree from the University of Virginia and a master’s degree in business administration from Harvard Graduate School.

Pat Kelly, who has served as Panera's interim c.f.o. since April 2012, will remain in place until the end of March to ensure a smooth transition.

“We thank Pat for his service to Panera, which has enabled us to focus on finding the appropriate candidate for the permanent position,” said Bill Moreton, president and co-c.e.o.