Associate Project & Operations Manager

PepsiCo • Chicago, IL

67d • $89,000 - $149,000

About The Position

At PepsiCo design, we have a saying: “We’re crazy enough to think we can inspire the future.” This is what drives us, in everything we imagine, develop and execute. Design is a strategic global function for PepsiCo that drives business value by leading innovation, creating experiences, and brand engagements. We are one of the first major food & beverage companies to integrate multiple design disciplines—brand design, design thinking, industrial design, design strategy, front-end innovation—into a single group. Our goal is clear: to connect PepsiCo’s food & beverage portfolios, with today’s hyper-connected, networked users and consumers hungry for meaningful, authentic, and relevant brand experiences across multiple touchpoints and regions of the world.

Requirements

• Over 6 years' project management experience in design or creative fields; agency background preferred.
• Proven track record of leading complex, cross-functional projects from inception to delivery.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate ambiguity.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, including executive-level reporting.
• Deep understanding of project management methodologies (Agile, Waterfall, Hybrid) and tools (e.g., Monday, Office 365, Miro).
• PMP or equivalent certification strongly preferred.
• Experience mentoring or managing junior team members is a plus.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, iterative environment with a start-up mindset.
• Passion for design, innovation, and creating meaningful user experiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead the definition and execution of high-impact design and innovation projects, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Collaborate with senior stakeholders across Design, R&D, Marketing, and Business teams to shape project vision, scope, and success metrics.
• Develop and manage integrated project plans, timelines, and budgets for multiple concurrent initiatives.
• Anticipate resource needs and proactively manage capacity, including internal teams and external partners.
• Serve as the primary point of accountability for project delivery, risk mitigation, and stakeholder communication.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration and ensure momentum, clarity, and quality across all project phases.
• Drive continuous improvement by analyzing project performance and implementing best practices.
• Mentor junior project managers and coordinators, fostering a culture of ownership, agility, and innovation.
• Champion design thinking and agile methodologies to accelerate experimentation and learning.
• Oversee vendor relationships, contracts, and deliverables to ensure alignment with project goals and standards.

Benefits

• The expected compensation range for this position is between $89,000 - $149,000.
• Bonus based on performance and eligibility target payout is 10% of annual salary paid out annually.
• Paid time off subject to eligibility, including paid parental leave, vacation, sick, and bereavement.
• Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, Health, and Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees