Former Panera executive John McKay was appointed vice president of real estate and development for multiconcept operator Ruby Slipper Restaurant Group.

In this newly created role, McKay will oversee new restaurant growth of the Ruby Slipper Café and Ruby Sunshine brands, their development process, design and management of the company’s development and facilities team.

A 22-year restaurant industry veteran with experience in real estate development, McKay’s background includes working with such chains as Chili’s Bar & Grill and Freebird’s World Burrito.

The New Orleans-based company intends to expand in the South Eastern region by opening restaurants in Charleston, S.C., and in Birmingham, Ala.