Sr Specialist - Construction (Dubai)

Roles and Responsibilities

This is an incredible opportunity to build your career and to be part of the International Construction team, contributing to the growth and success of Wendy’s across different markets. We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Sr. Specialist - Construction to support the successful execution of our international development pipeline. In this role, you will collaborate closely with Franchisees, providing expert guidance and support throughout the design, procurement, and construction phases.

• Project Management: Tracking timelines, forecasting progress, and ensuring projects are completed as planned.
• Cost & Value Optimization: Monitoring capital costs, supporting value engineering opportunities, and driving construction cost efficiencies.
• Quality & Standards: Ensuring all new restaurants meet our brand’s construction and design standards.
• Systems & Processes: Managing project tracking software, maintaining cost databases, and supporting company initiatives.

Responsibilities

Schedule management and reporting – Own the project timelines and keep the internal system up to date. This includes Franchisee projects and covers the full life cycle from design kick-off through to project close-out and restaurant opening.

QA/QC – Perform regular on-site and virtual reviews; monitor the quality of work; identify and communicate substandard workmanship and/or items on non-compliance. Follow up until all items are rectified.

Cost control and reporting – Monitor Franchisee project budgets, support value engineering initiatives, and assist in driving cost-savings measures.

Franchisee support – Work with the franchisee’s construction, design, and operations teams during the design, construction, and post-construction phases, scheduling and facilitating the necessary coordination meetings and tracking key project milestones.

Coaches franchisees through the execution of their development projects. This will involve conveying knowledge of Wendy's design requirements, providing lists of approved resources, and lending expertise to any part of the development process that the franchisee doesn't understand. It requires strong customer service skills as well as time management expertise.

Support with new markets. Ensure all information is accurate as new franchisees are onboarded into Wendy’s construction processes & systems.

Systems and Processes – Responsible for the accuracy of information held in company databases. Play an active role in developing processes, best practices, project management manuals, reporting tools, equipment guides, and others.

Source and hire local consultants, suppliers, and contractors.

Work with local cities and municipalities to secure permits and variances.

Award contractors, review pay applications, and release payments.

Review company’s restaurants and franchisees projects’ schedules.

Review franchisees construction budgets.

Approve construction quality and FOH & BOH design/brand compliance.

Recommend alternate/innovative suppliers for materials, furniture, and equipment.

What we expect from you

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Architecture, or Engineering.

Minimum 3 years of experience in F&B construction management rollout programs.

Knowledge of construction processes and techniques, project planning and budgeting, construction materials/specifications, building codes, zoning laws, and contracts.

Strong negotiation, communication, and management skills.

International business experience.

Experience with MS Office.

Architecture or construction internship or work experience preferred.

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Travel: 50%

Pay Range: AED 156,000 - AED 265,000 Annually