Senior Director of Design and Construction

Job Description

Position Overview:

The Sr. Director of Design & Construction will be responsible for the creation and execution of design strategies by developing, adapting, and implementing design standards for Prototype and Roll-out restaurant development. This role requires expertise in architecture, engineering, and interior design while ensuring compliance with state and local regulations, company brand standards, and industry best practices. The ideal candidate will have experience scaling QSR or multi-unit retail concepts and a passion for operational excellence and brand consistency.

Hybrid (San Clemente area) and fully remote candidates may be considered based upon qualifications.

This position offers a generous benefits package, an annual bonus opportunity, and half-day Fridays.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Following are examples of key responsibilities and are not an exhaustive list of all duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties may change depending on business needs.

Strategy & Leadership

1. Develop and implement a strategic plan for construction and design that aligns with company growth goals, including domestic and international expansion.
2. Lead a high-performing team of project managers, architects, designers, and external contractors to execute development projects efficiently.
3. Collaborate with real estate, operations, franchise partners, and other stakeholders to ensure site selections, store designs, and buildouts align with business needs.

Construction & Project Management

1. Oversee end-to-end project management for new store openings, remodels, and relocations, ensuring adherence to quality, budget, and timeline goals.
2. Manage relationships with general contractors, architects, engineers, and suppliers to ensure high standards and cost efficiency.
3. Implement and refine construction drawings and design processes to support scalability and operational excellence.
4. Establish KPIs to track performance, costs, and timelines across all projects.

Design & Brand Development

1. Ensure all store designs reflect brand standards, optimizing aesthetics, functionality, and customer experience.
2. Drive innovation in store layouts, materials, and sustainability initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
3. Stay ahead of industry trends to continuously evolve the design and construction process for improved performance and customer engagement.

Franchise & International Expansion Support

1. Work closely with franchisees and international partners to ensure construction and design guidelines are upheld.
2. Develop and enforce construction/design manuals and playbooks for franchise and corporate locations.
3. Adapt store prototypes and layouts to comply with local regulations and cultural in international markets.

Education, Experience and Other Skills/Competencies:

1. Ten plus years of leadership experience in construction, design, or development within the QSR, retail, or hospitality industry.
2. Experience with Prototype Development and Roll-Out.
3. Revit, AutoCad, and Sketchup proficiency is required.
4. Experience using AutoCad, Revit, and SketchUp to produce design development drawings, millwork shop drawings, and prototype models.
5. Experience in architectural design, cost and quality control, material and equipment installation, bidding practices, and assessing material and labor costs.
6. Experience creating, managing and reviewing construction plans and specifications for retail or restaurant projects.
7. Proven track record of scaling a multi-unit concept, ideally with international experience.
8. Experience working with franchisees and external partners in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
9. Excellent leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
10. Ability to travel as needed (up to 50%).