Head of Design & Construction

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Design & Construction

Company: Yum! (KFC France)

Location: La Défense, Paris, France

Job Type: Full-time, CDI

Category: Real Estate Development & Operations (Design & Construction)

Date Posted: 2026-11-04T07:57:39

Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design, remodeling, and construction of KFC restaurants across France, Belgium, and Luxembourg, ensuring adherence to KFC's global and local standards.

• Drive CAPEX optimization initiatives by contributing to the annual budget, monitoring financial commitments, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and forecasting potential budget overruns within the construction and development portfolio.

• Manage, coach, and develop a team of two Project Managers (Design/Remodeling and Construction), delegating project responsibilities and actively participating in daily execution to ensure project success.

• Serve as a crucial liaison between global design teams, the Center of Excellence, and 53 franchisees to effectively deploy new concepts and adapt them to specific market needs while providing technical expertise and negotiating sustainable solutions.

• Coordinate all project stakeholders, including Pan-Europe teams, Finance, Legal, Operations, architects, engineering firms, and general contractors, to facilitate the successful translation of new concepts into the French market.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for KFC France's growth strategy, focusing on the physical expansion and modernization of their restaurant portfolio. It requires a blend of strategic oversight, hands-on project management, team leadership, and strong stakeholder negotiation skills within the fast-paced quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry. The "making a difference" (faire la diff) theme suggests a company culture that values proactive individuals who contribute significantly to the brand's evolution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Portfolio Management: Oversee the entire Design & Construction project portfolio, including new openings, remodels, and business rentals, ensuring strict adherence to KFC brand standards, regulatory compliance (ERP, fire safety, accessibility, hygiene), and project timelines.

• Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and foster the growth of a team of two Project Managers, effectively distributing project workloads, providing guidance, and actively engaging in day-to-day project execution.

• Franchisee Partnership: Support franchisees in their opening and remodeling projects by adapting concept deployment to their specific requirements, offering technical expertise, and negotiating cost-effective and durable solutions.

• CAPEX Optimization & Financial Control: Contribute to the annual CAPEX budget, meticulously track financial commitments, proactively identify and mitigate budget deviations, and pinpoint opportunities for cost reduction in construction projects.

• Cross-Functional Coordination: Orchestrate seamless collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including the Global Center of Excellence, Pan-Europe teams, Finance, Legal, Operations, external architects, engineering consultants, and construction firms, to ensure cohesive project execution and concept adaptation for the French market.

• Concept Implementation: Translate global design concepts into actionable plans for the French market, working closely with the Center of Excellence and ensuring alignment with local regulations and operational needs.

• Technical Expertise: Leverage strong technical knowledge in areas such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and interior finishing to inform design decisions and construction oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for robust project management methodologies, financial acumen in capital expenditure, and strong interpersonal skills for managing a diverse group of internal and external partners, particularly franchisees. The emphasis on "hands-on" involvement suggests the role is not purely strategic but requires deep operational understanding and willingness to engage directly in project details.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related field. Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in architecture or construction management.

• At least 5 years of experience specifically within the restaurant, retail, or hospitality sectors.

• Proven experience in managing a team and a project portfolio. Required Skills:

• Architectural & Design Expertise: Proficient in architectural design principles and practices, with a strong understanding of restaurant concepts and brand standards.

• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex construction and remodeling projects from initiation to completion, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery.

• Team Leadership & Coaching: Experience in leading, motivating, and developing a team of professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.

• Financial Acumen (CAPEX): Strong understanding of capital expenditure budgeting, financial tracking, cost control, and negotiation for construction-related investments.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent ability to coordinate and communicate effectively with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including franchisees, global teams, and external contractors.

• Technical Proficiency: Solid understanding of construction methodologies, building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing), and regulatory compliance in France.

• Contract Negotiation: Skilled in negotiating terms and conditions with vendors, architects, and contractors to secure favorable outcomes.

• Problem-Solving: Proactive and resourceful approach to identifying and resolving project challenges, with a focus on finding practical and sustainable solutions.

• French Language Proficiency: Fluent in spoken and written French.

Preferred Skills:

• Franchise Network Experience: Previous experience working within or closely with a franchise network.

• CAD/BIM Software: Ability to read and update plans using AutoCAD, Revit, or equivalent software.

• English Language Proficiency: Professional level of spoken and written English.

• Knowledge of French Building Codes & Regulations: In-depth understanding of specific French construction and safety regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical architectural expertise and practical project management skills, with a strong preference for candidates who have navigated the complexities of franchise operations and understand the specific regulatory landscape in France. The mention of AutoCAD/Revit suggests a need for familiarity with modern design software.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Case Studies: Documented examples of successfully managed design and construction projects, showcasing scope, budget, timeline, and key challenges overcome. Emphasis on projects within the QSR, retail, or hospitality sectors.

• CAPEX Optimization Examples: Evidence of contributions to budget management, cost-saving initiatives, and financial forecasting in previous roles, demonstrating a proactive approach to investment optimization.

• Team Leadership Documentation: Examples of how you have led, mentored, and developed project teams, including strategies for performance management and skill development.

• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Demonstrations of successful collaboration and negotiation with diverse stakeholder groups, particularly franchisees and external partners.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to articulate and demonstrate experience in designing, implementing, and optimizing workflows for restaurant design, permitting, and construction processes.

• Regulatory Compliance Frameworks: Understanding and application of processes to ensure compliance with French building codes, safety regulations, and brand standards throughout the project lifecycle.

• Project Execution & Monitoring: Experience with established project management methodologies for tracking progress, managing risks, and ensuring quality control during construction phases.

• Cost Control & Reporting: Processes for financial oversight, budget tracking, reporting on CAPEX, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to showcase a portfolio that highlights their experience in managing multi-unit construction projects, demonstrating financial responsibility, and leading teams. The emphasis on process suggests that demonstrating a structured and systematic approach to design and construction management is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Head of Design & Construction role in Paris with 10+ years of experience and team leadership responsibilities, the estimated salary range is between €70,000 and €95,000 gross annual salary. This estimate considers the company's size, the strategic importance of the role, and the cost of living in the Paris region. Benefits:

• Attractive remuneration package.

• Bonus plan.

• Hybrid work environment with 2 days of remote work per week.

• 10 to 14 RTT (Reduction du Temps de Travail) days per year.

• 5 "Yum! days" (specific company benefit).

• Company car.

• Swile card for meal vouchers (usable even on remote work days).

• Inter-company restaurant (on-site dining).

• On-site gym facilities.

• Concierge services.

• Soft mobility package and 60% coverage for public transport costs. Working Hours:

• Full-time position, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through the hybrid work model and RTT days.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package indicates a commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance, with a strong emphasis on flexibility and employee perks, including a company car which is typical for roles involving significant travel. The salary range is an estimate and should be confirmed with the employer.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage (Quick Service Restaurant - QSR)

Company Size: KFC France is part of Yum! Brands, a global corporation. KFC France itself operates nearly 400 restaurants with approximately 15,000 restaurant employees and around 100 employees at its headquarters. This indicates a significant operation with a strong national presence.

Founded: KFC was founded in 1952. Yum! Brands was formed in 1997. This provides a context of established brands with a history of growth and innovation in the food industry.

Team Structure:

• Development Pole: The Head of Design & Construction will be part of the Development Pole, working closely with the Director of Development.

• Direct Reports: Manages a team of two Project Managers (one focused on design/remodeling, the other on construction).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Works extensively with the global Center of Excellence, Pan-Europe teams, Finance, Legal, Operations, and external partners (architects, engineers, contractors).

• Franchisee Interaction: Acts as a key point of contact and support for 53 franchisees.

Methodology:

• Agile & Flexible: The company describes its work environment as agile and flexible, suggesting a dynamic approach to project management and operations.

• Data-Driven & Innovative: While not explicitly stated for this role, the company's general description mentions innovation and leading projects like product innovation and digital transformation, implying a data-informed and forward-thinking operational approach.

• Collaborative & Inclusive: The company emphasizes that "differences make us strong" and promotes inclusion, suggesting a culture that values diverse perspectives and teamwork.

Company Website: https://www.yum.com/ (for Yum! Brands), specific KFC France information can be found via their local career pages or website.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to blend the resources and structure of a large international corporation with a more agile, "making a difference" ethos at the national level. The role requires navigating both corporate directives and the specific needs of a large franchise network.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership role ("Head of") within the Development function, indicating significant responsibility and influence. It sits at a strategic and operational intersection, managing both a team and a critical business function (physical expansion and maintenance).

Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Director of Development, placing it within the broader strategy and execution framework of the company's growth initiatives. The Head of Design & Construction manages a team of two Project Managers, providing direct leadership experience.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and tangible impact on KFC's revenue and customer experience through the successful design and construction of restaurants. Efficiently managed projects and optimized CAPEX contribute directly to profitability and brand consistency. The quality of restaurant design and construction influences customer perception, operational efficiency, and brand appeal.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into broader development roles, such as Director of Development, or into other senior operational leadership positions within KFC France or Yum! Brands.

• Strategic Influence: Opportunity to shape the future design and construction strategy for KFC in France, influencing brand evolution and operational efficiency.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain deep understanding of various business functions (Finance, Legal, Operations, Marketing) through extensive collaboration, broadening career options.

• International Exposure: Working within a global brand offers potential future opportunities within the wider Yum! Brands network.

• Franchise Relationship Building: Developing expertise in managing franchise relationships can be a valuable career asset.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for leadership growth within the real estate development and operations domain of the QSR industry. The combination of team management, strategic input, and financial oversight provides a well-rounded experience for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in La Défense, Paris, a major business district. The company offers a hybrid work environment, indicating a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): La Défense, Paris, France. Regular travel required within France, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office likely serves as a central point for strategic planning, team meetings, and cross-functional alignment, especially for the Development Pole. The hybrid model suggests a focus on purposeful in-office time for collaboration.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design and project management software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, project management platforms) and IT infrastructure to support both office-based and remote work.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to interact with the immediate team (Project Managers), the Director of Development, and colleagues from other departments, fostering a connected work environment despite the hybrid setup.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, likely standard 40-hour work week.

• Hybrid model allows for 2 days of remote work per week, promoting flexibility.

• Additional benefits like RTT days further enhance work-life balance and schedule management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model and emphasis on flexibility suggest a modern work environment designed to balance productivity with employee well-being. The requirement for travel indicates that the role is not solely desk-bound and involves significant on-site engagement with projects and partners.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A video call with the Talent Acquisition Partner to assess initial fit, motivation, and understanding of the role's core requirements.

• Manager Interview: A meeting with the future manager (Director of Development) at the office to delve deeper into experience, project management approach, leadership style, and alignment with the team's objectives.

• HR Interview: An interview with the HR Director (DHR) to discuss cultural fit, career aspirations, compensation expectations, and company values.

• Center of Excellence (CoE) Meeting: A session with managers from the CoE to evaluate technical expertise, understanding of global standards, and ability to translate them into local execution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Key Projects: Select 3-5 impactful projects that best demonstrate your experience in restaurant design, construction, remodeling, and CAPEX management. Prioritize projects within the QSR, retail, or hospitality sectors, especially if they involved franchise partners.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, budget, timeline, your specific role, key challenges, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., cost savings, time efficiencies, compliance successes, ROI).

• Showcase Leadership: Include examples of how you've managed and developed teams, highlighting your coaching style and ability to foster collaboration.

• Demonstrate Process Rigor: Be prepared to discuss your project management methodologies, risk mitigation strategies, and how you ensure regulatory compliance and brand standard adherence.

• Visual Aids: If possible, use visual aids such as floor plans, renderings, or before-and-after photos to illustrate your projects. Ensure any proprietary information is appropriately anonymized or presented with permission.

• Tailor to KFC: Research KFC's current design concepts and brand initiatives to articulate how your experience aligns with their strategic direction.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Discussion: Be prepared to discuss a hypothetical scenario related to a restaurant opening or remodeling project, focusing on your approach to planning, stakeholder management, budget control, and risk assessment.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle common challenges, such as construction delays, budget overruns, franchisee disagreements, or issues with regulatory approvals.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy, how you manage team performance, and how you foster a positive and productive team environment.

• Strategic Thinking: Be ready to discuss your vision for restaurant design and construction at KFC France, including potential areas for innovation or optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to assess candidates across multiple dimensions: initial fit, leadership capability, technical expertise, cultural alignment, and strategic thinking. A well-prepared portfolio and thoughtful responses to scenario-based questions will be key differentiators.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello, or similar platforms for project planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• CAD/BIM Software: Ability to read and interpret plans from AutoCAD, Revit, or equivalent architectural design software. Direct proficiency in using these tools for updates or reviews is a significant plus.

• Financial Management Tools: Experience with budgeting software, ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, SAP), or financial tracking tools for managing CAPEX budgets and project expenditures.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for internal and external communication and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Budgeting & Forecasting Tools: Skills in developing and managing project budgets, forecasting costs, and identifying financial trends.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to create or interpret project status reports, financial summaries, and performance metrics for senior management and stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM-focused role, understanding how restaurant development impacts customer experience and operational efficiency is key. Familiarity with systems that track store performance or customer feedback might be indirectly relevant.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires proficiency in standard project management and design software, with a strong emphasis on financial management and reporting tools relevant to CAPEX. The ability to work with CAD/BIM software is explicitly mentioned as a plus, indicating its importance in the design and construction process.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• "Faire la Diff" (Making a Difference): This is a core cultural tenet, implying a drive for impactful contributions, innovation, and going beyond the expected. For this role, it translates to proactively improving design, construction processes, and investment strategies.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The company emphasizes building together and working collaboratively, highlighting the importance of strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and partners.

• Agility & Flexibility: The work environment is described as agile and flexible, suggesting a culture that embraces change, adapts quickly to new challenges, and encourages proactive problem-solving.

• Inclusion & Diversity: A stated commitment to inclusion and valuing differences means that diverse perspectives are welcomed and contribute to the company's strength.

• Growth & Development: The company aims to help employees evolve and grow, indicating a supportive culture for learning and career advancement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates deep collaboration across departments (Development, Finance, Legal, Operations, CoE) and with external parties (franchisees, architects, contractors), requiring excellent communication and partnership-building skills.

• Proactive Communication: Given the hybrid environment and distributed stakeholders, clear, proactive, and regular communication is essential to keep projects on track and stakeholders informed.

• Solution-Oriented Approach: The culture appears to favor individuals who are solution-oriented and willing to "roll up their sleeves" to tackle challenges, aligning with the "hands-on" aspect of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Faire la Diff" slogan suggests a culture that rewards proactivity, innovation, and tangible results. Candidates should demonstrate how they embody these values in their approach to design, construction, and team leadership.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Global Standards with Local Needs: Adapting international design concepts and construction standards to meet the specific requirements, regulations, and market conditions of France, Belgium, and Luxembourg, while also satisfying diverse franchisee needs.

• CAPEX Optimization in a Growth Phase: Driving cost efficiencies and maximizing ROI on construction investments during a period of significant growth, which can put pressure on budgets and timelines.

• Managing a Diverse Stakeholder Group: Coordinating effectively across internal departments, global teams, and a large network of 53 franchisees, each with unique expectations and operational constraints.

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Ensuring compliance with complex and potentially evolving building codes, safety regulations, and permitting processes across multiple countries.

• Team Development and Motivation: Leading a small but critical team, ensuring they are motivated, skilled, and aligned with the company's strategic objectives in a hybrid work environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Strategic Project Portfolio Management: Deepen expertise in managing a large-scale, multi-country project portfolio with a focus on strategic alignment and financial optimization.

• Franchise Relationship Management: Develop advanced skills in partner management, negotiation, and support within a franchise model.

• Cross-Cultural Project Execution: Gain experience in implementing projects across different European markets, understanding their unique operational and regulatory nuances.

• Leadership Development: Enhance leadership capabilities through managing direct reports and influencing cross-functional teams and senior stakeholders.

• Industry Trends: Stay abreast of evolving design trends, construction technologies, and sustainability practices within the QSR and retail sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges related to scale, complexity, and stakeholder management, but these are balanced by substantial opportunities for professional growth and impact within a major global brand.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to balancing global brand standards with the specific needs of franchisees in different markets. How would you ensure consistency while allowing for necessary adaptations for KFC France?"

• "Walk us through your process for developing and managing an annual CAPEX budget for restaurant development. How do you identify cost-saving opportunities and mitigate risks of budget overruns?"

• "How do you ensure seamless coordination and effective communication among diverse stakeholders, including global teams, local operations, and external contractors, to achieve project milestones?"

• "Imagine a key construction project is facing significant delays due to unforeseen site conditions. What steps would you take to address this, manage stakeholder expectations, and minimize impact on the overall timeline and budget?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of KFC France's 'Faire la Diff' culture, how would you, as Head of Design & Construction, contribute to this ethos in your daily work and team leadership?"

• "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment, particularly within a hybrid work setup?"

• "What are your thoughts on the importance of restaurant design and construction in shaping customer experience and brand perception for a QSR like KFC?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each selected project, follow a clear story arc: the challenge/objective, your strategy/approach, the execution/key actions, and the quantifiable results/impact.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your work directly contributed to business objectives, such as increased revenue, improved operational efficiency, cost savings, or enhanced brand consistency.

• Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your role in leading teams, managing stakeholders, and making critical decisions.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about specific aspects of your projects, including technical details, financial management, and problem-solving strategies.

• Demonstrate Cultural Fit: Frame your experiences and approach in a way that resonates with KFC's values of proactivity, collaboration, and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of project lifecycle management, financial stewardship, team leadership, and stakeholder diplomacy, all within the context of the QSR industry and KFC's specific operational model.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Head of Design & Construction position:

• Submit Your Application: Utilize the provided link to submit your application through the Oracle Cloud portal.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 key projects that best showcase your experience in restaurant design, construction, remodeling, CAPEX management, and team leadership. Quantify your achievements and tailor your examples to the QSR/retail/hospitality sector.

• Optimize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your years of experience, relevant industry background (restaurant, retail, hospitality, franchise), team management responsibilities, and proficiency in project management and architectural/construction principles. Integrate keywords from the job description naturally.

• Research KFC France: Familiarize yourself with KFC's current brand image, restaurant designs, growth strategy, and company values, particularly the "Faire la Diff" ethos. Understand their presence in France and their franchise model.

• Prepare for Behavioral & Situational Questions: Practice articulating your approach to leadership, project management, financial control, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) where applicable.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.