Director, National Construction at Olive Garden… · Vaughan

Reporting to VP of Design & Construction, Director, National Construction oversees all construction activities related to new restaurant development across the Canada & United States. This leadership role requires a seasoned construction professional with extensive experience in the restaurant or hospitality industry and the ability to manage multiple large-scale projects simultaneously.What you will do in this role:Strategic Planning:• Develop and implement strategic plans for new restaurant development that support the company’s objectives• They will be responsible for preparing the annual plan, creating tactical action plans, and developing the people plans necessary to execute the yearly plan• Collaborate with senior leadership to align construction activities with organizational growth targetsProject Management:• Oversee the planning, scheduling, and execution of all construction projects• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively• Builds corporate and franchise restaurants to specification and within set budgets and construction parameters across Canada & US. This includes preparing bid specifications, estimating, awarding construction contracts, solving problems, and developing project budgets and forecastsTeam Leadership:• Lead and mentor a team of project managers, and construction professionals• Build, coach and retain Recipe’s construction management team, creating a positive, fun, collaborative, results-oriented working environment• Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement• Collaborate closely with brand leads, operations, franchisees, Real Estate, Franchising, external contractors, vendors, and architects, and oversee the planning and all construction activities across Recipe Brands.Vendor Management:• Establish and maintain relationships with contractors, architects, engineers, and other external partners• Negotiate contracts and ensure compliance with company standards and regulatory requirementsQuality Assurance:• Implement and oversee quality control processes to ensure construction standards are met• Conduct regular site inspections to monitor progress and address any issues promptly• Responsible for fostering a continuous improvement mindset to track and learn from previous builds to formulate recommendations to improve building methods and standards to help reduce costs• Establish and maintain a construction center of excellence department; develop construction-related tools (processes, procedures, training materials, technology enhancements) to improve Recipe’s ability to support our brands in delivering best-in-class construction servicesBudgeting and Cost Control:• Develop and manage the annual construction budget• Track project costs and implement cost-saving measures without compromising quality• Responsible for overseeing over $75M per year of total project costsCompliance and Safety:• Ensure all construction activities comply with federal, state, and local regulations• Promote a safe working environment and adherence to all safety protocolsReporting and Communication:• Provide regular updates to senior leadership on project status, risks, and opportunities• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for stakeholdersWhat we are looking for from you: • Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field; advanced degree preferred• 10+ years of restaurant construction experience• 5+ years of people management and leadership experience• Restaurant, hospitality or retail industry experience is an asset• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale construction projects• Strong leadership and team-building skills• Excellent project management and organizational abilities• Superior negotiation and contract management skills• In-depth knowledge of construction methods, materials, and regulations• Proficiency in construction management software and tools (Google Suite software, Microsoft Project, Smartsheets)• Strategic Agility and Managing through systems (creating systems where necessary• Excellent decision-making skillsWhat’s in it for you? • Flexible/Hybrid work environment• Pay Range: $120,000 - $160,000• You’d be joining a close-knit, innovative team of creative and energetic go-getters• You’d be a part of Canada’s largest full-service restaurant company that leads the industry in size and innovation• 20% associate discount dining card and monthly dining allowance valid at participating Recipe brands• A welcoming, fun and safe work environment founded on respect• Career advancement opportunities with a company that owns some of Canada’s most iconic restaurant brands• Industry-leading benefits, wellness programs, and total rewards programs