Project Manager - Operational Initiatives

Project Manager - Operational Initiatives

Summary Of Responsibilities

The Project Manager – Operational Initiatives is responsible for leading, coordinating, and managing all cross-functional elements required for successful systemwide implementation of key operational projects. This role acts as the connective tissue across Tech, Construction & Design, Equipment Ordering, Supply Chain, Marketing, and Operations, ensuring project timelines are met and interdependencies are clearly understood and managed. This position provides structure, clarity, and disciplined follow-up across all stakeholders.

The Project Manager maintains timelines, updates project trackers, escalates delays, reinforces accountability, and ensures franchisees and Field Business Leaders receive timely direction and communication regarding project expectations, readiness steps, and go-live requirements.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Cross-Functional Leadership:
  Own and manage comprehensive project plans, timelines, and milestone tracking for major operational initiatives.
• Coordinate interdependencies across departments and ensure all contributors complete deliverables on schedule.
• Facilitate cross-functional meetings, status updates, and risk mitigation plans.
• Maintain accurate dashboards, project reports, and implementation calendars.
• Implementation & Execution Excellence:
  Track and manage cafe-level readiness tasks from design confirmation through equipment ordering, installation, training, and activation.
• Ensure sequencing, timelines, and owner assignments are followed consistently.
• Support pilot cafes, test markets, and phased rollouts, documenting learnings and refining processes.
• Clear Communication to Franchisees & Field Business Leaders:
  Serve as a clear, concise, and reliable source of project direction for FBLs and franchisees.
• Provide proactive updates, FAQs, readiness communications, and escalations.
• Partner closely with Operations to ensure the field receives consistent messaging and practical guidance.
• Tools, Systems & Documentation:
  Maintain and manage project plans using  (preferred) and other project management tools.
• Organize workflows, documentation libraries, timelines, and resource materials.
• Collaborate with Training and Ops teams to ensure required job aids, SOPs, and support materials are completed on time.
• Operates with calm precision in fast-moving, detail-heavy environments.
• Anticipates impacts, risks, and sequencing challenges before they surface.
• Creates structure where ambiguity exists and drives consistent execution.
• Communicates with clarity and confidence across all levels of the organization.

Required Experience

• 3–5+ years of project management experience (QSR, franchise, retail, or multi-unit preferred).
• Proven ability to manage complex cross-department projects with strict deadlines; strong attention to detail; excellent organization and follow-through.
• Exceptional communication skills with experience guiding franchisees, operators, or multi-unit partners.
• Ability to drive accountability across teams, influence without authority, and manage competing priorities.
• Experience using project management platforms;  strongly preferred.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in franchise operations, equipment rollouts, construction coordination, or technology deployment.
• Insight into operational best practices and systemwide field implementation.

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, or equivalent relevant experience.

Required Licenses, Certificates, or Knowledge

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook).
• Ability to learn and navigate internal platforms and systems quickly.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Detail-oriented and proactive in identifying and solving problems.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with shifting priorities.

Working Conditions

• Primary workspace is office-based in Atlanta, GA.
• Must be comfortable working in a collaborative and dynamic environment.

Safety Hazards of the Job

• Minimal hazards – general office and cafe working conditions.

Budgetary Responsibility

• This position has no direct budget accountability but may impact company costs and operational efficiency.