Agency Overview

Marks is a brand design and experience agency that is uniquely constructed to enable brands to win in an age of constant change. Fueled by our dual vantage points - embedded partners and future-forward experts - we build brand momentum to move fast, move forward, and move confidently.

As a full-service agency, our expertise extends across all facets of the branding spectrum: strategy, innovation, design, adaptation, integrated marketing communications. Together, we are 800+ people across 16 studios and 10 countries.

Marks is part of SGS & Co, a brand impact group built with the agility and inventiveness that enables our clients to thrive. Our sister company, SGS, is an integrated packaging and marketing company. Together, we shift brands to impact.

Location: Toronto, ON (Hybrid role)

Job Summary

The Senior Project Manager is responsible for driving the successful management and execution of multiple projects simultaneously and cross-functional workflows within Marks, ensuring that timelines, budgets, margin and quality standards are consistently met. This role requires a deep understanding of project management best practices, strong organizational skills, and the ability to guide complex projects from inception to completion.

Key Responsibilities

Project Planning & Execution

• Develop and manage detailed project plans, including scope, schedules, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Owns all gates, risk and commercial controls to run the projects they are accountable for, for best utilisation, workflows, and delivery.
• Own and track margins and optimisation solutions for the projects they are accountable for, ultimately delivering to the target VCM
• Define project milestones and deliverables, ensuring alignment with client goals and agency standards.
• Track project performance in partnership with the PMO, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate closely with the PMO to ensure projects align with organizational goals and governance standards.
• Maintain data integrity within project management tools like Workfront, ensuring accurate reporting and alignment with organizational objectives.

Team Collaboration

• Coordinate cross-functional teams, including designers, strategists, copywriters, and production, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Act as the central point of contact for project-related queries and updates.
• Support team members by removing roadblocks and facilitating effective communication.

Client Relationship Management

• Maintain clear, proactive communication with clients, providing updates on timelines, deliverables, and any potential risks.
• Manage client expectations, ensuring alignment with project objectives and agency capabilities.
• Collaborate with account managers to identify upsell opportunities and strengthen client relationships.

Budget & Resource Management

• Monitor project budgets and ensure adherence to financial constraints.
• Track resource allocation, flagging potential bottlenecks or capacity issues.
• Ensure all project-related expenses and hours are accurately recorded and reported.

Risk Management & Problem Solving

• Identify potential risks and develop contingency plans to address them.
• Troubleshoot project challenges and implement timely, effective solutions.
• Ensure that projects comply with agency processes and quality standards.

Process Improvement

• Contribute to the refinement of project management processes and tools to improve efficiency and scalability.
• Mentor junior project managers and team members on best practices and workflow optimization.
• Implement PMO methodologies and best practices throughout the project lifecycle to ensure consistency and quality.

Prerequisites

• BA or higher in Graphic Management Services (concentration in packaging is an asset), or Design or in Marketing/Business Administration.
• 6+ years proven experience in project management, preferably in agency/design environment
• Profound understanding of branding, design, and print-production processes, including knowledge of Flexo, Litho, and Gravure printing techniques.
• Excellent communication skills, leadership qualities, and the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced agency setting.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, Teams, Outlook), project management platforms, and potentially Adobe software suite, with a focus on solution-oriented approaches and critical thinking.

Personal Attributes:

• Demonstrated ability to lead by example, fostering a collaborative team environment while driving for results.
• A solutions-oriented mindset with unparalleled attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and a proactive problem-solving approach.
• Organized, a self-starter able to prioritize effectively, and possesses a deep interest in brand stewardship and project management excellence.

This role is designed for an experienced project management professional with a passion for driving projects to successful completion and contributing to the overall growth and efficiency of the organization. The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record in project management within a creative or design agency setting.