Special Project Manager

The Special Projects Manager will lead the execution of specialized, high-priority construction and facility enhancement projects within Family Dollar’s portfolio. This role requires end-to-end project management responsibility for initiatives that often fall outside typical programs due to their complexity, urgency, or strategic significance. These projects will include new store development, remodels, expansions, and infrastructure upgrades. This position demands a highly adaptable leader with hands-on expertise in construction management, stakeholder coordination, and strategic execution.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Planning & Execution

• Develop and manage detailed project schedules (using Gantt charts or CPM tools), scopes, and budgets for special initiatives.
• Lead site selection assessments, permitting, pre-construction planning, and execution through to final turnover.
• Coordinate with internal departments (Facilities, Operations, Legal, Finance) and external contractors, vendors, landlords, and developers.

Construction Oversight

• Manage on-site activity for multiple concurrent projects, ensuring quality, safety, and code compliance.
• Enforce schedule adherence, oversee subcontractors, and proactively address field issues.
• Ensure adherence to construction specifications and Family Dollar standards.

Cost & Scope Management

• Maintain rigorous budget oversight, change order tracking, and cost control processes.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality and compliance.
• Ensure project objectives align with business case and strategic outcomes.

Stakeholder Communication

• Serve as the liaison between executive leadership and field-level project execution teams.
• Communicate project status, issues, and resolutions to senior leadership.
• Coordinate closely with Store Operations and Facilities to ensure operational readiness upon turnover.

Risk & Issue Resolution

• Identify potential project risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Resolve conflicts between project parties and manage escalations with urgency.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain thorough approvals, communications, permits, contracts, and closeout documentation records.
• Provide regular reports, executive summaries, and presentations as needed.

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal building codes and safety standards.
• Establish and maintain programmatic standards and templates for special projects.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• A bachelor’s degree in construction management, civil engineering, architecture, or a related field is preferred.
• 7+ years’ experience managing construction or retail development projects.
• Experience in retail, grocery, or multi-site commercial environments is highly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Deep understanding of construction processes and building systems.
• Proficiency with MS Project, Excel, and project management tools.
• Expertise in Microsoft Excel (advanced functions and analysis required).
• Familiarity with CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) codes and AIA contract standards.
• Preferred experience with Lucernex or similar real estate and project management systems.
• Strong negotiation, conflict resolution, and leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.

Additional Information

This role requires occasional travel to project sites and may involve work outside standard business hours. The Special Projects Manager will operate with high independence and be expected to drive projects to completion with limited oversight.