The Director of Construction will own the execution and continuous improvement of Heirloom Hospitality’s construction program across the United States.
This role will lead the successful delivery of a flagship restaurant opening in 2026 and transition into overseeing multiple concurrent projects in 2027 and beyond. The Director will be responsible not only for delivering projects at a high level, but also for building the systems, standards, and partner network required to scale construction across markets without compromising quality.
This individual will serve as both a hands-on project leader and a strategic operator—capable of driving day-to-day execution while building the foundation for a best-in-class, scalable construction program. This role is designed to evolve into a future Head of Construction and reports directly to the CEO.
Core ResponsibilitiesProject Execution Ownership (Flagship – 2026)- Serve as owner’s representative with full accountability for project delivery
- Lead all phases from pre-construction through turnover
- Own schedule, budget, and quality outcomes—no delegation of accountability
- Collaborate with architects, designers, engineers, and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with brand vision and operational requirements
- Maintain daily visibility into progress and proactively resolve issues
- Ensure all permitting, inspections, and regulatory requirements are met
Multi-Project Leadership (2027 Expansion)- Oversee multiple restaurant construction projects across different U.S. markets
- Balance competing priorities without compromising execution or quality
- Ensure consistency in timelines, reporting, and brand standards across all projects
- Partner with real estate, operations, and leadership teams to align construction timelines with business goals
Construction Systems & Standardization- Develop and implement repeatable construction processes, including:
- Scheduling frameworks
- Budget templates and cost tracking systems
- Reporting structures and dashboards
- Project delivery playbooks
- Establish scalable systems to support rapid, multi-market growth
- Implement and enforce construction best practices across all projects
Contractor & Vendor Strategy- Vet, select, negotiate, and manage general contractors, trades, and vendors
- Build a high-performing, repeatable national vendor network
- Establish accountability standards, performance tracking, and preferred partnerships
- Lead procurement strategy and contract execution
Schedule & Risk Management- Own and enforce project schedules and critical path milestones
- Identify risks early and take decisive action to mitigate them
- Eliminate surprises through proactive planning and communication
- Ensure consistent execution across all active projects
Financial Oversight- Own budgets, forecasts, and cost control across all projects
- Scrutinize and approve change orders, invoices, and capital allocation decisions
- Ensure financial transparency, reporting accuracy, and accountability
- Deliver projects on time and on budget
Quality & Brand Execution- Ensure all projects meet Heirloom’s elevated design, detail, and hospitality standards
- Translate design intent into consistent, high-quality field execution
- Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress, quality, and safety compliance
- Uphold meticulous attention to detail aligned with brand expectations
Executive Communication & Leadership- Provide clear, structured weekly updates to executive leadership
- Maintain real-time awareness of all active projects
- Escalate risks early with solutions—not just problems
- Serve as the internal leader for construction across the organization
Success Metrics- Flagship project delivered on time, on budget, and at brand standard
- Successful execution of multiple 2027 openings with consistency and predictability
- No material surprises to leadership
- Development of repeatable, scalable construction systems
- Strong, accountable contractor and vendor network
Qualifications- 8–12+ years of construction project management experience
- Proven experience delivering hospitality, restaurant, or high-end commercial projects
- Demonstrated success managing multiple concurrent projects across markets
- Strong expertise in budgeting, scheduling, contracts, and construction processes
- Experience vetting, negotiating, and managing contractors and vendors
- Familiarity with permitting and regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field (preferred)
Skills & Competencies- Ownership-driven mindset with strong accountability
- Exceptional organizational and program management skills
- Ability to operate both strategically and tactically
- Strong leadership and communication abilities
- High attention to detail with a commitment to quality
- Proactive problem-solving and risk management
- Alignment with Heirloom’s Core Values and passion for hospitality environments
Working Conditions- Frequent travel required (up to 50%+ during peak construction periods)
- Combination of office-based work and on-site project oversight
About Heirloom Hospitality
Heirloom Hospitality Group is one of Michigan's preeminent restaurant and hospitality companies, emerging from Detroit’s ongoing renaissance. We develop, own, and operate world-class venues that push the boundaries of guest expectations across food, beverage, design, and service—delivering one-of-a-kind experiences.
Purpose: Cultivating relationships through the fanatic pursuit of hospitality
Core Values:
- Consistently care about the smallest details
- Be kind, be happy
- Own it with pride
- Willingness to learn and teach
- Every Second Counts