Associate Project Manager at CJ Foodville USA Inc – Fort Lee, New Jersey

JOB SUMMARY:

The Associate Project Manager plays a key role in the interior design team, contributing to the planning, design, and furnishing of TOUS les JOURS brand franchise bakeries. This position is responsible for coordinating all aspects of the process, including construction, budgeting, and design. Additionally, the Associate Project Manager manages staff, vendors, and oversees multiple construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet high-quality standards.

JOB DUTIES include but are not limited to the following:

• Take responsibility for the overall planning and execution of construction projects.
• Manage the overall project schedule and provide regular reports to the Director.
• Collaborate with and guide franchisees and stakeholders throughout the design and construction process for TOUS les JOURS.
• Support the growth of TOUS les JOURS Bakeries by assisting and influencing franchisees, ensuring timely openings of the highest quality.
• Oversee and manage new builds and remodels, from planning and design to construction and post-construction.
• Ensure the timely completion of TOUS les JOURS bakeries, maintaining strong brand awareness and compliance.
• Order and review necessary equipment and furniture for setting up TOUS les JOURS bakeries.
• Coordinate and manage the delivery and installation schedules of FF&E in collaboration with suppliers.
• Support franchisee site surveys construction to ensure quality meets standards.
• Resolve issues that arise during the construction process and identify and manage risks that could impact project progress.
• Proactively identify and implement solutions to optimize store development timelines.
• Track, manage, and report costs associated with FF&E purchases for budget and expense management.
• Propose updates and improvements to optimize the TOUS les JOURS development process when necessary.
• Identify potential risks and develop strategies to minimize project disruptions and cost overruns.
• Review final documents to ensure compliance with TOUS les JOURS requirements.
• Ensure construction quality and adherence to FOH & BOH design/brand compliance.
• Develops design and layout for franchise bakery stores according to franchise brand guidelines
• Draft technical drawings using AutoCAD, Sketch up, Enscape, Adobe Suite, Illustrator, Photoshop and any other design software

COMPETENCIES

• A driven, motivated, and team-oriented attitude
• Strong understanding of construction materials, processes, and details
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills
• Proactive, solution-oriented, and a self-starter with a strong ability to take initiative
• Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Construction Management
• Minimum 5 years of directly related experience on F&B construction management
• Franchise brand experience strongly preferred
• Professional proficiency in English language (spoken and written; Korean language proficiency is a plus)
• Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills are crucial
• Proficiency in construction project management software, knowledge of construction industry best practices, and an understanding of relevant building codes and regulations
• Able to travel nationwide for onsite construction management & coordination