Senior Project Manager- Operations (Hybrid)

  • Full-time
  • Job Duration: Regular

Company Description

Since 1940, Dairy Queen® has been one of the world’s best known and loved brands. Based in Minneapolis, MN, International Dairy Queen Inc., (IDQ), is the parent company of American Dairy Queen Corporation. As a leading franchisor, there are more than 7,000 independently owned and operated restaurants in the U.S., Canada and more than 20 countries around the world. IDQ is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (Berkshire) which is led by Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire.

Here at IDQ, we create extraordinary Fan experiences every day and we do this through our commitment to hiring and retaining only the best in class talent. We firmly believe that our employees are the catalyst to the success of the company where their initiative, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial spirit are recognized and rewarded. We're looking for motivated, passionate and dedicated individuals with an inherent need and ambition to go after bigger challenges.

    Job Description

    IDQ has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Project Manager role based out of our Bloomington, MN headquarters.  The Senior Project Manager will use high level of project management skill and expertise, and in-depth knowledge of project management.  This role will be responsible for architecting and managing complex project plans, project integration, facilitation and resolution of complex project-related problems and issues.  Skilled at identifying and leading cross-functional subject matter experts to design architecture, adoption, enhancement/ evolution, and support plans for successful system-wide implementation of programs where Operations intersects with other functions, for example Supply Chain, Marketing and Technology.  This position must be capable of incorporating the RACI matrix throughout all stages of project/ programs.  Must be able to build strong and collaborative partnerships with internal stakeholders across the business, as well as franchisee leadership groups as appropriate.

    Key Accountabilities Include:

    Project Management/Leadership:

    Independently lead cross-functional teams to deliver complex, multi-year projects with significant budgets and strategic value that span multiple business departments. This includes the launch or “operationalization” of technology projects/programs into IDQ’s franchisee system. Lead the management of project resources, schedules and financials. Incorporate the RACI matrix throughout all stages of project. Verify that projects produce the required deliverables within specified constraints of time and cost, and to achieve the potential benefits identified in the IDQ business case.

    Ensure that project strategies result in increased readiness amongst all target audiences including, but not limited to, field operations, brand and field marketing, and franchisees prior to and after program launch. Plan, lead, and monitor the execution of Pilot tests to ensure stability of project/program configuration, deployment and implementation.

    Show strong initiative and strategic insight, managing issues, risks and project changes to ensure successful and on-time project delivery. Bring together and actively facilitate decision makers, suggesting and implementing resolution options, and ensuring that the right decisions are made.

    Act as a conduit for the Operations department with all internal teams including the following: R&D, QA, Training & Curriculum, Equipment, Information Technology and Marketing.

    Create project updates and scorecards. Analyze available data to interpret if desired outcomes are being achieved.  Distribute and monitor reports and progress for assigned projects. Brief management, including senior management when appropriate, on project status and risks, providing strategic recommendations.

    Other Assignments as Needed:

    Analyze market trends and incorporate strategic vision to create and oversee operational programs. Develop and monitor programs over multi-year timelines.

    Research various operational related issues and questions that arise from the Operations executive team. Provide recommendations and guidance as needed maintaining alignment with the Operations strategic roadmap.

    Respond to communications from customers and franchisees regarding operational issues in a timely manner.

    Special assignments and other duties as needed per the direction of Director or VP of Concept Support Services.

    Provide clear and relevant updates or training during Operations, Supply Chain, and various franchisee sub-committees meetings, as needed.

     

    Qualifications

    Education/Experience:

    • B.A./ B.S. Degree in Business, Communications, Technology, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
    • PMP or equivalent project management certification, required. Six Sigma certification a plus.
    • Minimum track record of 6-10+ years of successfully and independently managing increasingly complex projects, cross-functionally, including projects with a significant technology component.
    • Minimum 5 years of food service or retail operations project management experience preferred.

    Skills:

    • Proven skill at independently creating plan and managing scope and budget. 
    • Solid understanding of technology nomenclature and application in a QSR or retail environment.
    • Strong communication skills with the ability to create presentations and effectively and convincingly articulate to a variety of audiences including senior corporate leadership and franchisee leadership teams.
    • Advanced computer skills and a demonstrated ability to utilize software such as Smartsheets, MS PowerPoint, MS Word and MS Excel to prepare and deliver presentations. Some experience may be required in understanding of computer hardware, or other specialized technical expertise and skills.

    Additional Information

    All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.  

    Benefits

    Benefit package includes medical, dental and vision insurance coverage, employer paid basic life insurance, short and long-term disability, paid sick and vacation, 401(k) match, tuition reimbursement, wellness challenges and more!

    Covid-19 Requirements

    International Dairy Queen (IDQ) requests and strongly encourages all U.S. employees to submit their vaccination status and documentation.

     

    IDQ is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. IDQ participates in the US E-Verify program.  You must be work authorized in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

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