Manager, Design, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, US&C

Restaurant Brands International • Miami, FL

75d

About The Position

The Design Manager plays a critical role in shaping the restaurant design and brand image for Popeyes in the Americas. This role ensures that all new and existing Popeyes locations align with the brand’s architectural standards and strategic vision. The Design Manager will oversee a pipeline of approximately 150 new builds and 200 renovations annually, collaborating with franchise partners and internal teams—including construction, real estate, operations, technology, marketing, and finance—to drive projects from concept to completion. This individual will also contribute to prototype development while ensuring consistency and efficiency across the pipeline.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture (Architecture license is a plus).
• 5+ years of relevant architecture and/or design experience, preferably in restaurant design (QSR is a plus).
• Proven experience managing multiple projects simultaneously, from design development through construction execution.
• Strong understanding of building codes, permitting, environmental regulations, and NSF standards.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Bluebeam for reading, drawing, and reviewing full architectural plans.
• Experience leading project teams, mentoring junior designers, and managing external design resources.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, identify roadblocks, and escalate issues when necessary to ensure deadlines are met.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage with leadership, franchisees, and external partners.
• Strong business acumen and problem-solving abilities, understanding how design impacts broader business objectives.
• Detail-oriented, highly organized, and adaptable to shifting priorities.
• Results-driven with strong analytical, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
• High integrity, accountability, and a passion for the Popeyes brand.

Responsibilities

• Ensure that all new and remodeled Popeyes locations uphold the brand’s architectural and design standards while balancing customization and standardization across different markets.
• Manage a portfolio of new restaurant openings (NROs) and renovations annually, ensuring timely execution and alignment with business goals.
• Serve as the design liaison for franchisees, architects, engineers, and construction teams, providing guidance on brand standards, image, and equipment requirements.
• Oversee and review prototypical construction documents, ensuring they align with brand objectives, architectural quality, and local regulations.
• Act as a subject matter expert on construction documentation and architectural best practices, advising internal and external stakeholders.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to refine and develop new restaurant prototypes, enhancing efficiency and brand identity.
• Lead the review and approval process for architectural, engineering (including kitchen layout and equipment), and construction plans, ensuring quality and compliance.
• Support internal process improvements by developing resources (people, tools, and workflows) to enhance the efficiency of the NRO and Renovations pipeline.

Benefits

• Comprehensive global paid parental leave program.
• Free telemedicine and mental wellness support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees