Manager, Projects

About the role

Leads the successful delivery of capital projects across Island & Destination Planning, driving end-to-end execution from concept through close-out. This role ensures alignment with strategic priorities while balancing scope, schedule, budget, safety, and operational continuity. Accountable for a portfolio of complex projects, the role integrates cross-functional stakeholders—including Operations, Engineering, Creative, and external partners—to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions with minimal operational disruption.

Responsibilities

• Lead full lifecycle project delivery (initiation through close-out) across a portfolio of large-scale or multiple concurrent projects
• Own performance across scope, schedule, budget, safety, quality, and risk mitigation
• Develop and execute delivery strategies aligned with business priorities, operational constraints, and guest experience standards
• Anticipate risks and proactively implement mitigation strategies based on historical insights and forward-looking analysis
• Partner with Strategic Sourcing to develop bid strategies, scopes of work, and contract structures that optimize cost and delivery outcomes
• Oversee contract administration, change management, and claims resolution
• Ensure accurate forecasting, Estimate at Completion (EFC), and financial reporting
• Integrate project delivery with ongoing island and destination operations to minimize disruption and maximize efficiency
• Lead coordination across internal partners, contractors, municipalities, and site stakeholders
• Manage field execution, including directives, change orders, and project closeout processes
• Serve as the primary point of accountability for project communication to partners and executive leadership
• Deliver clear, concise updates on project status, risks, financials, and operational impacts
• Build strong cross-functional relationships to enable alignment and decision-making
• Develop and implement project controls, standards, and governance processes
• Leverage systems (SAP, project management tools) to drive visibility, discipline, and portfolio planning (e.g., Integrated Facility Plan)
• Identify and implement process improvements and best practices across the portfolio
• Lead, mentor, and develop project team members to deliver high-impact outcomes
• Build organizational capability through training, standards, and knowledge sharing
• Foster an inclusive, high-performing team culture focused on accountability and results

Core Leadership Capabilities

• Strategic & Critical Thinking – Translates strategy into executable plans
• Decision Quality & Ownership – Makes timely, data-informed decisions with accountability
• Executive Communication – Delivers concise, compelling messaging to leadership
• Collaboration & Influence – Drives alignment across diverse stakeholders
• Adaptability & Resilience – Performs effectively in dynamic, high-pressure environments
• Talent Development – Builds and develops high-performing, diverse teams

Requirements

• 10+ years of project management experience, including full lifecycle delivery
• 5+ years of leadership experience with direct team oversight
• Demonstrated success managing complex capital projects and/or portfolios
• Strong experience in contract administration, cost management, and claims resolution
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams in operational environments

Qualifications

Required Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, related field or equivalent combination of education and experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in themed entertainment, hospitality, or destination-based operations
• Advanced understanding of estimating, cost drivers, and risk-based decision-making
• Experience working in active operational environments with minimal disruption requirements

Desired Education

• Advanced degree (MBA or technical master’s)

Pay

The hiring range for this position in Celebration, FL is $120,800 to $161,900 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.