Brand Manager / Architectural Project Manager

Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced Brand Manager / Architectural Project Manager to support the growth and development of nationally recognized Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) franchise brands, including Jersey Mike’s, Wingstop, Playa Bowls, Dave’s Hot Chicken, Bubbakoo’s Burritos, and other emerging concepts. This role will serve as a key point of contact between franchise clients, internal project teams, consultants, and stakeholders to successfully manage projects from concept through completion. The ideal candidate will have a strong architectural background, experience supporting commercial brands and franchise rollouts, and proven leadership skills with the ability to manage and mentor internal team members. The successful candidate will balance brand management, client relationships, architectural project management, production oversight, and team leadership to ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within scope, and aligned with brand standards. Key Responsibilities: Brand & Client Management: Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned franchise clients and maintain strong long-term client relationships. Manage multiple QSR brand programs, ensuring projects align with client standards, design guidelines, and operational requirements. Collaborate with franchise owners, developers, contractors, consultants, and internal teams throughout all phases of project delivery. Support franchise growth initiatives by managing repeat project workflows and maintaining consistency across locations. Identify opportunities for process improvements and enhanced client experience. Business & Account Management: Review and approve project proposals, scopes of work, fee structures, and deliverables to ensure alignment with client expectations, project requirements, and company goals. Monitor project profitability, budgets, resource allocation, and financial performance through regular review of profitability reports and key performance indicators. Partner with leadership to analyze project performance, identify opportunities for improved efficiency, and implement strategies to maximize profitability and client satisfaction. Support SBU (Strategic Business Unit) goals by tracking performance metrics, managing account health, and ensuring projects align with established financial and operational objectives. Evaluate project scope changes, additional service opportunities, and resource needs to maintain project profitability and successful delivery. Architectural Project Management: Lead commercial architectural projects from initial concept through construction completion. Manage project schedules, milestones, deliverables, budgets, and client expectations. Coordinate with architects, designers, engineers, consultants, and contractors to ensure successful project execution. Review drawings, details, and documentation for quality, accuracy, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. Ensure projects meet franchise brand requirements, local jurisdiction requirements, and client expectations. Participate in design reviews, client meetings, and project coordination calls. Team Leadership & People Management: Manage, mentor, and support architectural team members assigned to projects. Provide direction, workload coordination, and feedback to ensure successful project delivery. Assist with training and development of junior designers and project staff. Promote collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement within project teams. Work closely with leadership to identify resource needs and improve team processes. Architectural Production: Participate in architectural design and production drafting as needed. Develop and oversee drawings, construction documents, and project deliverables. Utilize Revit and AutoCAD to create, review, and coordinate architectural documentation. Support the team with technical problem-solving and design solutions. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Project Management, or related field required. 5-7+ years of experience in architectural project management, commercial design, or brand rollout support. Experience managing people, mentoring team members, or leading project teams required. Experience supporting franchise, retail, restaurant, hospitality, or commercial clients strongly preferred. Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Strong understanding of commercial construction documents, building codes, zoning requirements, and permitting processes. Proficiency in Revit (3+ years preferred). Proficiency in AutoCAD required. Strong client-facing communication, organization, and relationship-building skills. Ability to balance strategic client management with hands-on project execution. Professional architecture licensure preferred but not required. Job Type: Full-time Benefits: Health, dental, & vision insurance Paid time off & holidays Career growth opportunities & professional development assistance Amber Books subscription Additional PTO for ARE preparation and testing Retirement plan (401K with employer contribution) Collaborative team environment Company events and extracurricular activities (sports clubs, bowling leagues, etc.) Wellness activities and benefit offerings Flexible scheduling Hybrid work environment Compensation Package: Competitive salary based on experience Bonus opportunities Schedule: Monday through Friday Education: Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or related field required Experience: 5+ years of architectural project management experience required 5+ years of commercial architectural design experience preferred Revit (3+ years preferred) AutoCAD required Team leadership / people management experience required Work Location: Hybrid / In-person MUST BE WITHIN COMMUTING DISTANCE TO GREEN BROOK, NEW JERSEY