US-headquartered Mediterranean fast-casual chain CAVA is scaling up hiring and career development through its "Flavor Your Future" platform.

Under the plan, the restaurant company plans to hire more than 2,500 new employees in 2026 and open over 75 additional restaurants.

Cava chief people officer Kelly Costanza said: “The most rewarding part of our growth is seeing our team members grow alongside the company.

“Whether someone is stepping into a leadership role or just getting started, we want Cava to be a place where they can build a future they're proud of."

The company said it is focusing on clearer career paths and stronger leadership training for staff across the US.

A key element of the strategy is a new assistant general manager (AGM) role, created to deepen the leadership bench and support rapid expansion.

The restaurant brand had set a target of more than 150 AGM hires this year and has already passed that figure.

The added management layer aims to support daily operations, expedite leadership development and improve restaurant staffing stability.

Last year, more than 3,500 restaurant employees moved into new roles or received promotions. Since the AGM job was introduced in December 2025, 60% of AGMs have been promoted, the company said.

Cava chief operating officer Doug Thompson said: “We’re in an exciting season of growth at Cava as we continue expanding our Mediterranean way to more guests and communities across the country.

“Our company's growth is only possible with our team members' growth.

“Through meaningful opportunities to develop, lead and build lasting careers, investing in our people isn’t separate from our success — it’s what drives it.”

In March, Cava opened its first Ohio location in Cincinnati. The 3,200ft² site features a dining area and supported digital ordering, collection and delivery services.