Moonachie-based Paris Baguette on Monday said it recently welcomed Eric Lavinder to the C-suite as its new chief development officer. Prior to joining Paris Baguette, Lavinder held the same title for Duck Donuts and prior to that, WOWorks.
“I am thrilled to have joined the Paris Baguette team. This is an incredible brand with amazing growth and a strong future trajectory. The expertly crafted baked goods and made-to-order beverages are made with only the finest and freshest ingredients. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of the Paris Baguette brand at such a key inflection point in the North American growth,” Lavinder stated.
“We are excited to welcome Eric to the team,” CEO Darren Tipton said. “He has a rich history and track record in both restaurants and franchising, and his passion for developing people and brands will be crucial as Paris Baguette continues to grow at an exponential rate.”
Throughout his career, Lavinder has worked in various disciplines, from finance to operations. He ultimately found his true passion on the development front, specifically working within franchise business models.
Lavinder supports Paris Baguette in reaching its goal of 1,000 U.S. units by 2030, and acknowledges that there is a challenging goal ahead of the system, but he said the business is set up well for the feat. Year-to-date, the franchisor has signed 98 deals and plans to open a total of 64 cafés before the year ends.
“The challenge is part of what makes the task so exciting,” Lavinder said. “There is a network of passionate franchisees and corporate leaders standing behind the Paris Baguette name and its growth goals. Having passion, being excited and loving what you do, as well as building a great team and culture are all very important to me. When you love what you do and can bring the passion, the excitement, the energy and the right people in the right places, and you can all get them functioning and working together, you’re unstoppable.”
