Senior Design Manager US & Canada

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager US & Canada

Company: International Dairy Queen, Inc.

Location: Bloomington, Minnesota, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design & Architecture Operations

Date Posted: May 20, 2026

Experience Level: 7-10 years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for managing and directing design, food service equipment, and building systems for new store development and reinvestment projects across the US and Canada.

• It involves ensuring the accurate documentation and timely implementation of prototypical design and operational standards, leveraging expertise in restaurant design and construction.

• The position requires strong proficiency with design software such as AutoCad, Revit, and Bluebeam for reviewing project submissions and managing progress against timelines.

• A key aspect involves acting as a liaison between franchisees, architects, engineers, and internal departments to maintain consistent facility design standards and drive project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Design Manager", the responsibilities heavily lean into operations management within the design and construction lifecycle of restaurants. This role bridges design strategy with operational execution and project management, making it highly relevant for operations professionals with a strong architectural or design background.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide expert design, building systems, and food service equipment guidance to franchisees, architects, engineers, and general contractors, utilizing AutoCad/Revit software and current prototype documentation.

• Develop innovative, cost-effective solutions for building design challenges and integrate them into future projects.

• Manage and maintain design support documentation, ensuring it reflects current prototype design and operational criteria, adhering to prevailing building codes and ADA accessibility standards.

• Promptly and accurately review project submissions from external architects and designers using Bluebeam software, ensuring alignment with feasibility drawings and established design criteria.

• Track and manage new store and reinvestment project progress daily via Synuma software to meet assigned timeline and unit opening goals, reporting status to stakeholders.

• Provide technical and design feedback to the Director of Design/Architecture based on prototype issues encountered by various parties to improve prototype accuracy.

• Serve as a liaison with corporate departments (Operations, Supply Chain, Marketing, R&D) and external vendors to ensure consistent facility design standards are implemented across all new locations.

• Conduct feasibility assessments for proposed locations, ensuring reasonable project viability and cost estimations based on precise design representations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design oversight and project management, with a strong emphasis on operational standards and efficient project delivery. This is typical for senior roles within GTM or construction operations for retail/restaurant chains.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 7-10 years of project management and design experience, with a significant background in multiple restaurant projects, preferably Quick Service Restaurants (QSR).

• Demonstrated ability to independently lead complex, cross-functional design projects to successful completion.

• Direct experience in food service design and documentation, including custom design and plan preparation.

• Experience with International Building Code (IBC) and ADA accessibility standards compliance.

Required Skills:

• Software Proficiency:

  • AutoCad (minimum version 2019)
  • Revit (minimum version 2016)
  • Bluebeam Revu 2021
  • Adobe Photoshop (PS)
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel)

• Industry Knowledge:

  • In-depth knowledge of restaurant or QSR industry equipment specifications, usage, and application.
  • Strong understanding of various building construction types (metal, wood, masonry, steel) and detailing.
  • Practical understanding of construction industry best practices and techniques.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of creating full sets of construction documents.

• Project Management & Operations:

  • Strong multi-tasking and prioritization skills in a deadline-driven environment.
  • Experience in project tracking and performance management using software like Synuma.
  • Ability to generate design resolutions with minimal senior management support.
  • Familiarity with facility design standards and their implementation.

• Interpersonal & Communication Skills:

  • Strong presentation skills, capable of articulating effectively to diverse audiences (franchisees, senior management).
  • Leadership and influencing skills to drive decisions and project plans cross-functionally.
  • Coaching and mentoring abilities for internal team members and external parties.
  • Excellent customer service orientation for both internal and external stakeholders.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AutoCad/Revit for producing high-quality, timely design intent feasibility drawings.

• Experience in a leadership role with construction documentation, specifically detailing various building construction types.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software versions (AutoCad 2019, Revit 2016, Bluebeam Revu 2021) and detailed knowledge of QSR equipment and construction types points to the need for a candidate with highly specialized, practical experience. The "operations" aspect comes from managing the lifecycle of restaurant builds and ensuring they align with brand standards and operational efficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Documentation Examples: Showcase high-quality feasibility drawings, construction documents, and detailed plans created using AutoCad/Revit.

• Project Management Case Studies: Present examples of managing new store development or reinvestment projects from concept to completion, highlighting timeline adherence and budget management.

• Problem-Solving Exhibits: Include examples of how you identified and resolved complex design or building system issues in previous roles, demonstrating innovative and cost-effective solutions.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration Evidence: Provide examples of successful collaboration with franchisees, architects, engineers, and internal departments, detailing your role in achieving project consensus and alignment.

• System Usage Demonstration: Be prepared to discuss your experience and proficiency with project tracking software (e.g., Synuma) and design review tools (e.g., Bluebeam), ideally with visual aids or case studies.

Process Documentation:

• Prototype Adherence & Adaptation: Demonstrate a clear process for ensuring projects adhere to established prototype design and operational criteria, alongside methods for adapting prototypes when necessary.

• Design Review Workflow: Outline a systematic approach to reviewing project submissions from external parties, ensuring promptness, accuracy, and comprehensive feedback aligned with brand standards and building codes.

• Project Tracking & Reporting: Illustrate a structured process for daily project tracking, milestone management, and status reporting to various stakeholders, emphasizing the use of tracking software.

• Issue Resolution & Feedback Loop: Detail a process for identifying design discrepancies or prototype issues, providing constructive technical feedback, and contributing to the continuous improvement of prototype drawings.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is critical. It should not only showcase design output but also demonstrate project management capabilities, process adherence, and problem-solving skills within the context of restaurant development operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $115,037 - $143,796 USD per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical and Dental insurance plans.

• Retirement Savings: 401K plan with company match.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), including specific allowances for Volunteer Time and Parental Leave.

• Additional Perks: Potential for bonus eligibility.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility to manage project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific to the US national base. Actual compensation may vary based on specific location within the US, candidate experience, and other factors. The inclusion of bonus eligibility is common for management roles focused on driving project outcomes.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage / Quick Service Restaurants (QSR)

Company Size: IDQ operates over 7,800 DQ restaurants in more than 20 countries, indicating a large, established global presence. As a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, it benefits from a strong corporate backing.

Founded: International Dairy Queen, Inc. (IDQ) is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. While the founding date isn't specified, its long history and extensive franchise network suggest a mature and stable organization.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Design or Architecture department, reporting to a Director of Design/Architecture.

• This role requires extensive cross-functional collaboration with departments such as Operations, Supply Chain (USCI), Marketing, and Research & Development (R&D).

Methodology:

• Design Standardization: A primary methodology is the adherence to and continuous refinement of prototypical design and operational standards.

• Project Management Framework: The role employs structured project tracking and milestone management to ensure timely completion of new store development and reinvestment projects.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: While not explicitly stated, the use of software like Synuma for tracking and Bluebeam for reviews implies a data-informed approach to project oversight and problem-solving.

• Collaborative Problem Solving: The role necessitates working closely with diverse stakeholders to resolve design challenges and ensure consistent facility standards.

Company Website: https://www.dairyqueen.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: IDQ's structure as a large QSR franchisor means the operations of this role are heavily influenced by the need to maintain brand consistency across numerous independent franchise owners, balancing standardization with the practicalities of local execution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level management position within the Design and Construction operations of IDQ. It signifies a professional who can independently manage significant aspects of restaurant development projects, providing technical leadership and strategic input.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager reports to a Director of Design/Architecture and is expected to manage projects and provide guidance to external parties like franchisees, architects, and contractors.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and brand consistency of new DQ restaurant openings and renovations. Successful project execution by this manager contributes to revenue generation through timely store openings and positive customer experiences driven by well-designed facilities. The role ensures that operational standards are physically integrated into every new location.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into a Director-level position within the Design or Architecture department, overseeing larger teams or broader scopes of work.

• Specialization Development: Deepen expertise in specific areas like sustainable design, advanced building systems, or franchise development strategy.

• Cross-Departmental Moves: Opportunities to leverage design and project management skills in other operational areas, such as Supply Chain or Franchise Operations support.

• Mentorship Roles: Continued opportunity to mentor junior designers, project managers, and guide franchisees, fostering leadership capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies a strong track record and the ability to operate with significant autonomy. Growth here is likely tied to increasing responsibility for larger capital projects, managing more complex design challenges, or taking on direct team leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model. Employees are expected to work 3 collaboration days per week at the corporate office in Bloomington, MN, with additional in-office time potentially required for team or project needs.

Office Location(s): Corporate office in Bloomington, MN. This location is likely accessible via major thoroughfares in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model emphasizes in-office days for collaboration, suggesting a team-oriented atmosphere where knowledge sharing and brainstorming are encouraged.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (AutoCad, Revit, Bluebeam, Photoshop) and project tracking systems (Synuma) is integral to the workspace.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to interact with a dedicated design team, as well as cross-functional partners from Operations, Marketing, and Supply Chain, facilitating a holistic understanding of restaurant development.

Work Schedule: Generally aligned with standard business hours (e.g., 9 AM - 5 PM), but the nature of project management, especially with franchise partners and construction timelines, may require flexibility to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key consideration for candidates. The expectation of 3 days in-office highlights the company's emphasis on in-person collaboration for design and project coordination.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, understanding of the role, and salary expectations.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the Director of Design/Architecture focusing on experience, technical skills, leadership capabilities, and understanding of QSR design challenges.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A critical stage where candidates present selected projects from their portfolio, demonstrating design rationale, project management approach, problem-solving skills, and ability to articulate complex information clearly. This will likely involve case studies of new store designs or major renovations.

• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders from Operations, Supply Chain, or Franchise Development to assess collaboration skills, understanding of operational requirements, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Potential discussion with senior leadership to confirm alignment with company strategy and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your experience in QSR design, project management, problem-solving, and adherence to brand standards. Include both new builds and reinvestment projects if possible.

• Highlight Process and Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem/objective, your role, the design process followed, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, faster completion, improved operational flow, brand consistency).

• Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Be prepared to walk through specific drawings or models, explaining your use of AutoCad, Revit, and Bluebeam.

• Address Operational Alignment: Emphasize how your designs support operational efficiency, franchisee success, and brand integrity.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about building codes, ADA compliance, food service equipment integration, and construction methods.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You might be given a hypothetical site or renovation challenge and asked to outline your approach to designing a DQ restaurant for it, considering prototype standards, operational needs, and budget.

• Process Improvement: Be ready to discuss how you would improve aspects of the current design and construction process for DQ restaurants.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare to discuss how you would handle conflicting requirements from a franchisee, operations team, and corporate marketing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount. Candidates should treat it as a presentation of their operational and design expertise, focusing on quantifiable results and a clear understanding of the QSR development lifecycle.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCad (minimum version 2019), Revit (minimum version 2016) for creating and managing design intent feasibility drawings.

• Design Review & Annotation: Bluebeam Revu 2021 for reviewing project submissions from external architects and designers, and applying notations.

• Image Editing: Adobe Photoshop (PS) for design document rendering and potentially creating visual mock-ups.

• Project Management & Tracking: Synuma software for daily tracking of new store and reinvestment projects, monitoring critical milestones, and reporting performance against goals.

• Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) for administrative tasks, reporting, and data management.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in the traditional sales/marketing CRM sense, but the role involves managing relationships with franchisees (akin to customer relationship management) and automating design review processes where possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with AutoCad, Revit, and Bluebeam is non-negotiable. Experience with project tracking software like Synuma is a significant advantage, indicating a candidate's ability to manage operational workflows and data.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, accurate design documentation and project management that drives successful restaurant openings.

• Innovation & Efficiency: A drive to find creative, cost-effective solutions that improve building designs and streamline the development process.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Valuing strong relationships with franchisees, internal teams, and external partners to achieve shared goals.

• Brand Integrity: Upholding and enhancing the DQ brand experience through consistent and appealing facility design.

• Data-Driven Improvement: Utilizing tracking and review tools to inform decisions and continuously enhance operational processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Works closely with Operations, Supply Chain, Marketing, and R&D to ensure designs meet all business needs.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly communicates project status, potential issues, and design feedback to all relevant parties.

• Solution-Oriented: Focuses on finding practical solutions to design and construction challenges in partnership with stakeholders.

• Mentorship & Guidance: Actively coaches and guides franchisees and external parties on brand standards and design implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely emphasizes a blend of creative problem-solving within a structured, brand-driven framework. Success hinges on balancing design excellence with operational realities and franchise partner needs.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Franchisee Expectations: Balancing diverse franchisee needs and investment capacities with corporate prototype standards and building codes.

• Tight Timelines & Deadlines: The fast-paced QSR industry demands rapid project turnaround, requiring exceptional time management and prioritization.

• Navigating Building Codes & Regulations: Staying current with evolving building codes, ADA requirements, and local regulations across different jurisdictions.

• Integrating New Technologies/Equipment: Adapting designs to incorporate new food service equipment or building technologies while maintaining prototype integrity.

• Remote Project Oversight: Effectively managing and reviewing projects across a wide geographic area (US & Canada) with limited on-site presence.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Revit, BIM modeling, or other advanced design technologies.

• Industry Seminars & Conferences: Attending events focused on QSR development, architectural trends, or construction management.

• Leadership Development Programs: Enhancing skills in team management, strategic planning, and cross-functional leadership.

• Exposure to Berkshire Hathaway Best Practices: Gaining insights from the broader Berkshire Hathaway ecosystem on operational excellence and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex real-world design and operational challenges within a well-established brand, fostering significant professional growth in project management and architectural operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting requirements from a franchisee, the operations team, and marketing regarding a store design. How did you reach a resolution?" (Focus on negotiation, problem-solving, and understanding of different stakeholder needs.)

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing architectural plans submitted for a new QSR location. What are the critical elements you look for to ensure brand consistency and operational efficiency?" (Demonstrate your systematic approach, knowledge of codes, and focus on functional design.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about the Senior Design Manager role at International Dairy Queen, Inc., specifically?" (Show your research into DQ, its brand, and the QSR industry.)

• "How do you approach collaboration within a hybrid work environment, particularly when working with remote teams or franchisees?" (Address your communication strategies and ability to foster teamwork remotely.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly explain the context, your role, the steps you took, and the outcomes.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact (e.g., "reduced construction costs by 8%", "expedited plan approval by 2 weeks", "improved operational workflow efficiency by 15%").

• Visualize Your Process: Use visuals (drawings, site plans, equipment layouts) to illustrate your design thinking and problem-solving. Show how your designs translate into functional restaurant spaces.

• Connect to DQ: Frame your experience and solutions in the context of how they would benefit International Dairy Queen, Inc. and its franchisees.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss specific software functionalities and how you leverage them for efficiency and accuracy in design and review processes. Demonstrating an understanding of the franchisee business model is also key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.smartrecruiters.com.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience with QSR design, project management, AutoCad, Revit, Bluebeam, and managing construction documentation. Emphasize any experience with prototype development or franchise operations.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your years of experience, educational background, specific software proficiencies, and achievements in project delivery, cost savings, and operational improvements. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, focusing on quantifiable results. Prepare to present your portfolio with a clear narrative that demonstrates your expertise in design, operations, and project management.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the International Dairy Queen brand, its typical restaurant formats, and common challenges in the QSR development space. Understand their commitment to inclusion and belonging.

⚠️ 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.

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