Director of Architecture

Company Description

Since 1940, Dairy Queen® has been one of the world’s best known and loved brands. Based in Minneapolis, MN, International Dairy Queen Inc., (IDQ), is the parent company of American Dairy Queen Corporation. As a leading franchisor, there are more than 7,000 independently owned and operated restaurants in the U.S., Canada and more than 20 countries around the world. IDQ is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (Berkshire) which is led by Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire.

Here at IDQ, we create extraordinary Fan experiences every day and we do this through our commitment to hiring and retaining only the best in class talent. We firmly believe that our employees are the catalyst to the success of the company where their initiative, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurial spirit are recognized and rewarded. We're looking for motivated, passionate and dedicated individuals with an inherent need and ambition to go after bigger challenges.

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity available for a Director of Architecture located at our corporate office in Bloomington, MN.  This hybrid role is responsible for leading the creation, development and implementation of the overall design intent and prototype plans for all store concepts in the DQ system.  Provide direction to both domestic and international Design/Architecture/Construction (D/A/C) team members as to the implementation of concept designs for both new buildings and conversion programs.  Assist the completion of projects in the design phase by assisting in the review of plans from architects and/or other external parties and generating innovative and cost-effective solutions to building design issues. Respond to field inquiries addressing deviations and sourcing issues to either detailing or material specifications of drawings. Provide architectural and food service expertise to outside parties to complete plans in accordance with IDQ standards.

Key Accountabilities Include:

Manage Prototype Standards, Goals, and Processes:

• Develop and maintain the design process and design standards for all new and existing concepts.
• Provide recommendations for economical design solutions to D/A/C Development teams and outside consultants as needed in completing architectural plans and construction of new and remodeled facilities.
• Provide ADQ system with operationally effective and economical new-build and existing prototype building designs.
• Interface with other departments that have an impact on the visual aspects of our restaurants.  Communicate the architectural identity and brand strategy.  Assist other departments with compliance for programs being produced primarily in brand marketing, graphics, USCI and development. 
• Maintain a positive relationship with vendors/suppliers of construction and related materials for all concepts.
• Ensure effective and professional communications occur with Franchise Development, Operations, Concept Support Services, and other IDQ departments.
• As it relates to prototype management, direct the workflow of outside architecture/engineering consultants on a regular basis.
• Manage outside consultant performance for quality, budget conformance, and timeliness.
• Establish an environment that maximizes team motivation, productivity, and results. 

Other Duties:

• Maintain current knowledge of merchandising trends in the restaurant/retail environment. 
• Maintain artistic and technical competency in architectural, graphic, signage, food service, and visual merchandising design.
• Develop new sources for products and materials used for the construction of all concepts.
• Provide advice and consultation to IDQ executive leadership on an ad hoc basis, regarding corporate facilities projects.
• Other duties and assignments, as necessary.

Qualifications

Education/Experience

• Professional BA/BS or MA/MS degree in Architecture from an NCARB accredited university.
• Current valid architecture licensure.
• Minimum of 10 years working experience as a licensed architect.
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience managing employees.

Skills

• Experience working within a franchise corporation, preferably a QSR brand.
• Working knowledge of current AutoCad, Revit, SketchUp, and Enscape software.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to articulate design and technical ideas to a variety of audiences.
• Creative thinker with a passion for design and who can quickly develop innovative ideas across a wide variety of business units.
• Relationship building skills with the ability to create mutually beneficial relationships with both internal and external clients.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate effectively with other departments (Development, Operations, Brand Marketing, Legal) to complete projects on time.
• Strong ability to multi-task and prioritize multiple projects and requests simultaneously, within an intense, deadline-driven environment.
• Highly organized with an acute attention to detail and accuracy.
• Provide excellent customer service to both internal and external clients.
• Effective conflict resolution and problem identification skills required.
• Strong knowledge and familiarity with the restaurant industry, including working experience with current restaurant industry operations and equipment specifications, highly preferred.
•  Job requires occasional travel to project sites, conferences (average of 3-6 days per year).

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.  You must be work authorized in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

Benefits

Our benefit package supports the well-being of our employees and their families.  Our comprehensive benefit package includes, medical, dental, 401K match, paid time off (including volunteer time as well as parental leave) and so much more!  To learn more about our great benefit offerings, Click Here.

Work Environment

Most positions located out of our global headquarters in Bloomington, MN will work a hybrid work schedule where you will work 2 collaboration days a week.  Additional in office time may be required to support team/project needs.  Positions will be identified as “remote eligible” when consideration will be given to candidates outside of drivable distance to our Bloomington office.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

We are committed to creating a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion for all who touch DQ.  We believe in and commit to fostering a community where employees bring their authentic selves to work; where we recruit, engage and retain employees, franchise owners and suppliers with diverse background and identities; and where everyone feels welcome engaging with our DQ brand.

IDQ is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. IDQ participates in the US E-Verify program.  You must be work authorized in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.