Project DirectorJ. A. Watts, Inc. (JWI) is a woman-owned professional services firm that believes in treating its clients and employees like family at every level of our company.
Our family culture is what we're known for, and we work to stay true to who we are. That's how we manage our projects and how we recruit THE Best People in our industry. Our clients come from all walks of life, and so do we, which makes us stronger together.The Project Director role is responsible for the overall operational, budgetary, and financial responsibilities and activities of the assigned project team(s) or department. The Project Director oversees and leads all activities of the designated project(s) to ensure goals and objectives are fully executed within the required timeframe and budget while exceeding client expectations and optimizing team performance.
The Project Director will support baggage work at the Orlando International Airport and other airports, with travel anticipated up to 40% depending on those projects.Duties and ResponsibilitiesMaintain relationships and drive development of new and existing client relationships with the clients as the primary JWI contact. Responsible for growing team through business development opportunitiesResponsible for the adherence and utilization of the JWI Playbook in delivering all projectsOversee and manage the project team through the entire project processResponsible for high level planning and programming analysis work including preparation of technical documents, testing plans, and proposalsServe as a positive and professional ambassador of JWI, fostering strong relationships with clients and strategic partnersDrive strategic growth, lead capture plans, and manage high-level partnershipsOwn client/partner relationshipsOwn proposal process including the creation of proposals and staff plansDefine the client's project scope, budget, and schedule. Consult or negotiate as needed to finalize project specificationsContribute to strategic project planning discussions and meetings providing budget, staffing, and costManage the effective and positive communication between the client and CompanyReview and approve technical documents, design plans, cost estimates, and proposalsResponsible for ensuring that project deliverables are on time, within budget, and at the required level of qualityManage approved budget and monitor actual expenses to ensure project stays within budgetCommunicate project details, including plans, progress, issues, and concerns to executive leadership team on a regular basisResponsible for the adherence and utilization of the JWI Playbook in delivering all projectsDevelop strategic client capture plan(s) to advance existing and new client relationshipsSecure new business by gathering client intel, identifying opportunities to submit on RFPs/RFQs, developing and negotiating contracts, and integrating contract requirements with business operationsBuild and maintain strong, long-lasting client relationships to support and cultivate business opportunities by effectively communicating the business's value to prospective clients and partners through presentations, meetings, and proposalsOversee project budgets, create and manage project forecasts, schedules and expenses; anticipate potential changes to budget, schedule, and expenses and provide guidance and analysis of changesContribute to the pursuit process by providing a staff plan, project approach, schedule, and fee proposal as well as any additional operational requirements requested in the RFP/RFQPartner with internal teams including Sales and Marketing, Human Resources, Accounting/Finance, Contracts Administration, and Safety, to augment and facilitate business development and operational practices to effectively lead, staff, and execute project(s) successfullyAssist with succession planning, team training, employee reviews and development, talent acquisition (including interviews) and support the Human Resources function for departmentManage the design process, review design submissions, and ensure compliance with project requirementsSchedule and facilitate project meetingsTimely submission, review and approval of timesheets and expense reportsCoach, mentor, and develop employees by providing oversight, training, direction, and performance feedback in accordance with organizational policies and proceduresContribute to a workplace culture that is consistent with the company's mission, vision, and core values in every internal and external interactionContribute to the development and implementation of corporate policies and proceduresAttend events and participate in various industry, professional, and networking associationsParticipate in and lead JWI Internal groupsEnsure the timely submission, review and approval of timesheets and expense reportsPerform other duties as required/directedRequirementsA bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering or equivalent work experience is requiredAn advanced degree (MBA) is a plusCurrent OSHA30 certification required or ability to obtain certification within 90 days of hire15+ years of experience, most recently in a senior management role in project or construction management; aviation industries preferred10+ years of relevant baggage handling project experienceExcellent and timely oral and written communication skills. Proficient electronic communication skills (email, chat.
etc.), a persuasive communicator with excellent interpersonal skillsExecutive presence and stakeholder engagementExcellent problem solving and strategic decision-making skillsInvoice process ownership and contract management skillsDemonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop a high-performance team, including negotiating and effectively resolving conflictExperienced on project budget development; understanding of JWI contract, responsible for JWI invoice, assist in proposal fee developmentStrong ability to balance multiple prioritiesGeneral knowledge of various employment laws and practices; employee relations skillsDemonstrated ability to develop and implement effective solutions addressing process efficiency, project costs, budget parameters, team development, and client needs to achieve desired resultsStrong ability to work under pressure and communicate effectively in a team environmentAbility to meet deadlines while remaining time consciousProven success in effectively using industry and professional network(s) to prospect, pursue, and secure new business and partnershipsEvidence of a high level of ethical behavior in exercising judgement and discretion in matters of significanceProficient using MS Office Suite and industry related project management software (e.g. Procore, Bluebeam, AutoCAD, MS Project, Excel)Familiarity with technological strategy and digital transformation toolsAbility to lead a program or multiple medium-sized projects, or part of one large project/programExperienced managing a portfolioTravel may be required depending on specific project needs or company businessCompany BenefitsMedical, Dental, Vision insurance options for employees and familyHealth Savings and Flexible Spending Account options availableCompany-provided group life, short and long-term disability, and voluntary life optionsMatching 401(k) retirement planPaid time off and holidaysFlexible work schedulesStudent debt repayment resources availableProfessional development and tuition assistanceID Theft protectionCompany-sponsored social eventsEqual Opportunity Employer Veterans/DisabledAn Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.