Job Title: Project Manager (Design & Construction)

Location: Canada (Remote-based with frequent travel to project sites across Atlantic Canada, Alberta, and Ontario)

Department: Franchise Development

Reports To: Vice President, Franchise Development

Company: Mezza Lebanese Kitchen

Type: Full-Time

Welcome to Mezza Lebanese Kitchen, one of the largest and fastest-growing Lebanese restaurant chains in Canada. With over twenty thriving locations in Atlantic Canada, expansion to Western Canada and Ontario, and a presence in Dubai, UAE, Mezza Lebanese Kitchen is on the cusp of an exponential growth.

As we expand nationally through new store development, renovations, and real estate investments, we're building an agile, experienced internal team to support this growth.

The Project Manager (Design & Construction) plays a vital, hands-on role in the execution of new and existing location development. Reporting to the VP of Franchise Development, this individual will oversee all phases of restaurant design and construction for both franchise and corporate locations.

This position ensures that each new Mezza location meets brand, design, and operational standards, while staying on schedule and on budget. The role includes guiding franchisees through architectural planning, managing vendor and contractor relationships, and ensuring locations are built to spec and fully ready for the Opening Team.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Oversight & Execution:

• Manage all phases of restaurant development projects through to store opening and operational handoff.
• Lead coordination of design, tendering, permitting, construction, equipment delivery, and final inspections.
• Guide franchisees in hiring architects, engineers, and other consultants.
• Review and approve construction drawings, site plans, and equipment layouts.
• Oversee construction of both franchise and corporate locations, as well as renovations and other real estate projects.
• Ensure locations are built to brand standards, comply with all regulatory requirements, and are construction-ready for Opening Teams.
• Track schedules, budgets, and project progress; resolve issues and control change orders.
• Verify completion of all vendor installs, utility setups, health inspections, and occupancy certificates.
• Conduct regular site visits, quality checks, and deficiency follow-up to ensure delivery readiness.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve project management processes to support Mezza's national expansion.
• Work closely with Real Estate, Operations, Marketing, and Finance teams to ensure alignment throughout development.
• Provide regular project updates to the VP of Franchise Development and executive leadership.

Qualifications:

• 7+ years of construction project management experience, preferably in restaurant, retail, or hospitality environments.
• Deep understanding of design review, construction management, permitting, and franchise development processes.
• Experience creating and refining systems and processes in a high-growth, multi-unit environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.
• Familiarity with Canadian building codes, permit systems, and construction practices across provinces.
• Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficient with project management tools
• Diploma or degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• PMP certification or equivalent an asset.
• Willingness to travel regularly across Canada.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Travel allowance and expense coverage
• Health and dental benefits
• Company RRSP Plan
• The opportunity to directly impact the growth of a dynamic, emerging national brand
• A collaborative, entrepreneurial work environment