Construction Project Manager – Retail

We are seeking a seasoned and strategic Construction Project Manager – Retail to lead retail construction initiatives across multiple regions. This role encompasses oversight of all aspects of construction management, including new builds, renovations, and refreshes, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with company standards. The Construction Project Manager will establish and drive processes and standards with external partners while collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure efficiency, innovation, and exceptional execution. The Construction Project Manager will take full ownership of overall project success. Our ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a proven track record in retail construction, exceptional project management expertise, and a deep commitment to fostering a high-performing team environment.

Location: Remote with a strong preference for candidates who reside in or nearby Ascend’s states of operation. (MA, NJ, NY, MD, PA, CT, DE, RI, MI, IL, OH)

Travel: Up to 50%, to oversee projects.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and guidance to organizational partners, ensuring projects are aligned with organizational goals and deliver exceptional results.
• Develop and oversee a multi-year construction roadmap in collaboration with the Senior Leadership, ensuring alignment with company expansion strategies.
• Manage a diverse portfolio of retail construction projects across multiple regions, including ground-up, renovation, and refresh initiatives.
• Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for project success, including timelines, budgets, quality metrics, and stakeholder satisfaction.
• Drive consistency in construction standards, processes, and systems to ensure quality and brand alignment across all locations.
• Lead high-level negotiations with contractors, vendors, and suppliers to secure cost-effective agreements while maintaining quality standards.
• Foster strong partnerships with cross-functional teams (e.g., Real Estate, Design, IT, Operations, Compliance, Marketing, Finance) to ensure seamless project execution.
• Ensure all construction projects comply with cannabis industry regulations, including security, zoning, and licensing requirements, in collaboration with internal compliance teams and external stakeholders.
• Assess and mitigate risks across the project portfolio, proactively implementing contingency plans to address challenges.
• Act as a key liaison between executive leadership and project teams, providing regular updates on project progress, risks, and strategic initiatives.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, integrating innovative construction techniques and sustainability practices into project plans.
• Oversee external resources, including contractors, subcontractors, architects, and consultants, ensuring accountability and alignment with project goals.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in retail or commercial construction, including multi-unit and multi-regional projects a must.
• Minimum 3 years of leadership experience managing high-performing teams in construction project management.
• Current Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is preferred.
• Familiarity with retail branding and customer experience integration in construction.
• Experience in the cannabis retail industry or other highly regulated sectors.
• High level of professionalism and discretion.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices and LEED certification standards.
• Expertise in construction methodologies, project management systems, and contract negotiation.
• Proven ability to manage complex budgets, timelines, and resources across multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of risk management, quality control, and compliance within the construction industry.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management software; experience with AutoCAD preferred.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
  

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