Manager Design & Plan Review - Premium Brands

Co-manage hotel projects, aligned with assigned Manager, Property Improvements, for an assigned territory of franchised hotels which may include a Property Improvement Plan (PIP) for a renovation and/or new development (ND) hotel construction project. Serve as a recognized architecture, design, and construction expert for a segment of upscale IHG brand hotels. Manager, Design & Plan Review will focus primary responsibilities on Plan Review discipline as assigned per hiring manager.

Responsibilities include approving (or not approving) project plans, design boards, life safety plans and other related project submittals for a broad range of complex of PIP and ND projects to ensure conformance with Hotel Brand Vision and Hotel Design Guidelines, Hotel Brand Standards, IHG Brand Safety Standards, ADA requirements, and other related design criteria requirements. Provide design guidance and assistance to IHG franchisees and their design consultants through all phases of the PIP or ND projects, ensuring timely and successful completion of projects while promoting Great Hotels Guests Love.

May lead and review the work of less experienced staff by providing mentoring, technical guidance and/or training in daily activities. From time to time provide feedback to management and brand on product related issues / recommendations for improvements.

Your day to day 

• Effectively manage the planning and design process of an assigned territory by evaluating a steady flow of proposed ND and PIP renovation project plans and designs, including evaluation against IHG Brand Standards, suitability of designs, materials, style and coordination for all areas of a hotel project. Consult with/guide the project team members through the design process and into the construction/renovation phase to ensure consistency of product.
• Responsible to make sure all planning phase milestones are monitored on a pro-active basis and information is communicated to the appropriate IHG parties (eg. NHOP, Renovation, Quality, etc.).
• Manage the Digital Library and electronic project management systems (eg. Digital Project Manager (DPM), PIP Tracking, etc.) for executed projects for content and accuracy of input for assigned projects.
• Perform Project Kick-Off, Model Room and Property Assessment visits both domestically and internationally. Participate in special projects as assigned.

• Owner Relations – Manager must develop good franchisee / owner relations offering assistance as needed within reason.

• Contribute to ongoing development of Architecture & Design department’s useful tools and resources to be shared with franchisee community via department website.

What we need from you

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Construction Management, or an equivalent combination of education and work related experience. AIA or ASID certifications preferred.
• 8+ years progressive work-related experience in design, architecture or construction management, with at least two years prior experience in hotel industry renovation or new build projects. Must have two years prior project management experience in order to coordinate projects within a given territory.
• Demonstrate project management experience in organizing, planning and executing complex, large-scale projects from conception through implementation.
• Demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills for the purpose of providing information to clients, Design teams, senior management and IHG Internal Partners. Demonstrated ability to communicate supportive program details (presentation, analysis) to present a persuasive argument or to effectively negotiate a position, and to clearly explain specific requirements for active projects.
• Demonstrate computer skills. Experience with Bluebeam, OneDrive/Docs, Microsoft 365 preferred
• Demonstrate knowledge of brand standards and full understanding of the differences in the various brand standards. Must maintain a working knowledge of all requirements described in each brand standards manual.
• Demonstrate ability to read blueprints including architectural, mechanical, plumbing, sprinkler systems and electrical drawings.
• Demonstrate ability to interpret design boards, FF&E specifications and provide renderings, layouts or other drawings to clarify design issues or as the need arises.
• Demonstrate ability to remain current with construction trends, code requirements and design through participating in annual continuing education classes.
• Demonstrate ability to effectively prioritize project details and manage time usage to track active renovation, conversion and new development properties, and to determine if plans have been submitted in a timely manner. Must make immediate time available to return telephone calls and work with franchisees when problems arise regarding project development, Brand standards or vendor-related

Travel – 40% [US, Canada and Caribbean]

Location – Atlanta, GA: Our hybrid work structure is an expectation of three (3) days a week in office. This expectation may be adjusted to evolve with the changing needs of the business.

The salary range for this role is $94,000.00 to $115,000.00.  This role is also eligible for bonus pay (as applicable). We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, medical/dental/vision insurance, 401K, and other benefits to employees.  

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