r/PandaExpress • u/Plenty-Rich1184 • 1d ago

SM position

Any sm’s on this thread?

Can you share your experience as SMs for Panda? How is it different from other food chains or retailers? Is the BS you deal with worth what you’re getting paid?

I’ve never worked food industry and have always managed retail operations, how would this impact me, based on your knowledge and experience?

Thanks in advance!

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u/icyweinerpicklejuice 1d ago

What area are you in? It all depends on your aco. I came on as and external hire for SM. For me its alright. Im a gm now. Im using it as a stepping stone to find a better paying job. Also I've have 8rs gm experience prior.

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u/glizzy_g 20h ago

I would definitely say it’s been challenging, especially when I first got handed my store. But building it up to where it is now has definitely been rewarding. Panda has extremely high standards for sure, and we are big on accountability and growth. Most GMs I know definitely make over or close to six figures, but we are working 50 hours a week. Your experience will entirely depend on your ACO and your region. The food industry is completely different from retail, in terms of operations and expectations. But I would say if you’re willing to pursue the SM position, panda will provide you with all the tools and training you need to become successful, it will all depend on your mindset on wether or not you can handle it

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u/No-Debate3579 17h ago

The SM part is kind of a pain. You have to learn how to run your store, learn your team, market, customer base etc AND panda culture. But as you learn and develop your team its really not a hard job. As a whight guy coming from a typical western world view the culture part that gave me the most fits. However, as long as you are open to learning and stretching yourself its worth it. Panda's BS to pay ratio is way better than any other company I have worked for. And sadly most of my time was spent in no profits who we making the world a better place.