Senior Project Manager - Grocery

The Senior Project Manager plays a critical leadership role in the successful delivery of complex architectural projects from initial planning through project completion. This position requires extensive experience in architectural project management, strong business acumen, and the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams while maintaining exceptional client relationships.

At AO, the Senior Project Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of project execution, including technical, administrative, financial, and client-facing functions. This individual serves as the primary client liaison, ensuring projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and in alignment with client expectations. The Senior Project Manager is expected to manage multiple large-scale and complex projects, develop strategic project plans, oversee budgets and schedules, prepare project proposals and contracts, and provide mentorship and guidance to Project Managers and other team members.

This role requires a proactive leader who can effectively balance client needs, project objectives, financial performance, and team development while driving project success and maintaining AO's standards of excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership

• Lead and oversee complex architectural projects from pursuit through completion.
• Develop and implement comprehensive project strategies, including scope, schedule, budget, staffing, and resource allocation.
• Ensure project objectives are achieved while maintaining quality, profitability, and client satisfaction.
• Identify project challenges and proactively develop solutions to maintain project success.

Client Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle.
• Build, maintain, and strengthen long-term client relationships.
• Understand client goals and expectations and ensure project delivery aligns with their vision and business objectives.
• Facilitate client meetings and maintain consistent communication regarding project status, risks, and opportunities.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Lead multidisciplinary project teams, including architects, designers, engineers, consultants, and support staff.
• Foster a collaborative and accountable team environment.
• Mentor and develop Project Managers and emerging leaders by providing guidance, coaching, and professional support.
• Delegate responsibilities effectively while maintaining oversight of project performance and deliverables.

Project Planning & Execution

• Develop project work plans, schedules, budgets, and staffing plans.
• Coordinate internal resources and external consultants to ensure efficient project execution.
• Monitor project progress and adjust plans as needed to maintain schedule and budget objectives.
• Ensure project documentation and communications are completed accurately and promptly.

Quality Assurance

• Ensure all project deliverables meet AO's quality standards and client expectations.
• Review project documentation, drawings, specifications, and technical deliverables for accuracy, completeness, and constructability.
• Promote quality control processes and best practices throughout the project lifecycle.

Financial Management

• Manage project budgets, profitability, forecasting, and overall financial performance.
• Monitor project expenditures, fee utilization, invoicing, and collections.
• Prepare and present financial reports and project performance updates to senior leadership.
• Identify opportunities to improve project efficiency and financial outcomes.

Risk Management

• Identify project risks, constraints, and potential obstacles early in the project lifecycle.
• Develop mitigation strategies and contingency plans to minimize project impact.
• Resolve complex project issues while balancing client expectations, business objectives, and project resources.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with applicable building codes, regulations, permitting requirements, and industry standards.
• Coordinate with authorities having jurisdiction and project consultants as required.
• Monitor regulatory changes and incorporate requirements into project delivery processes.

Business Development & Proposal Support

• Support client retention and business development efforts.
• Prepare scopes of work, fee proposals, project schedules, and contracts for complex projects.
• Collaborate with leadership on project pursuits, presentations, and client interviews.
• Assist in identifying new opportunities with existing and prospective clients.

Collections & Contract Administration

• Ensure timely invoicing and collection of project receivables.
• Resolve billing discrepancies and client payment issues professionally and efficiently.
• Monitor contract compliance and assist in managing project-related contractual matters.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Stay current on industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving project delivery methods.
• Promote innovative approaches that enhance project efficiency, quality, and client outcomes.
• Identify and implement process improvements that support operational excellence.

Organizational Collaboration

• Demonstrate a strong understanding of AO's operational procedures, standards, and strategic objectives.
• Collaborate effectively with internal functional groups, leadership teams, and company committees.
• Promote consistency with firmwide standards, best practices, and quality initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience managing architectural projects, preferably in retail or commercial sectors.
• Retail Rollout Experience.  Grocery Rollout Experience is a PLUS.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and other industry-standard tools.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Deep understanding of building codes, permitting, and construction processes.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

• Thorough knowledge of building codes, regulatory requirements, and permitting processes.

Why AO?
Our culture is built on collaboration, trust, and the belief that great work happens when people are supported and challenged in equal measure. You’ll find a team that values:

• Strong relationships, with clients and each other
• A roll-up-your-sleeves mentality
• Continuous learning and professional growth
• Thoughtful design paired with technical rigor

At AO, you will work alongside colleagues who care deeply about what they do and are committed to building something meaningful together.

Benefits

We offer competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team. Highlights include:

• Medical, dental, life, and supplemental insurance
• Most medical plans fully paid for employee-only coverage
• Company-paid basic life insurance and long-term disability
• Retirement plan, health savings, and flexible spending accounts
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
• Free parking and convenient transit access
• Employee discount program (OC location)