Job Description

Job Title: Project Manager - Franchise Development

Location: Hybrid Remote (Orlando, FL) – Occasional in-person office visits and travel to project sites

About Escapology

Escapology is the largest and fastest growing escape room franchise, known for delivering immersive, high-quality experiences that captivate and challenge players of all ages. With a strong global presence, we continually innovate, inspire, and leave lasting memories for escape room players around the world.

Position Overview

Reporting directly to the Chief Development Officer, the Project Manager-Franchise Development will oversee all aspects of new venue expansion and renovation projects for franchise locations. In this high-impact, strategic role, you will manage cross-functional teams and external partners to ensure projects are executed seamlessly—on time, within budget, and aligned with our brand standards. As the primary leader of venue development initiatives, you will also play a key part in optimizing processes, managing stakeholder relationships, and driving overall growth for Escapology.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management & Execution

• Direct the end-to-end development process, including site selection, lease negotiation, permitting, design, construction, and ops handover for new and remodeled venues.
• Maintain robust project tracking systems to monitor milestones, budgets, and quality standards, reporting regularly to internal and external stakeholders.
• Conduct periodic on-site visits to ensure adherence to safety regulations, building codes, and Escapology’s brand quality.
• Maintain and development project management status updates in Asana.

Vendor & Contractor Oversight

• Manage relationships with architects, engineers, general contractors, and other external partners.
• Negotiate service agreements and contracts that balance cost-effectiveness with uncompromising quality.
• Enforce adherence to Escapology’s brand guidelines and standards of excellence, proactively resolving issues that arise during construction or installation.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with internal departments (Game Production, Finance, Operations, Technology) to coordinate tech installations, franchise requirements, and overall venue readiness.
• Serve as an expert consultant to franchise partners, providing technical guidance, budget recommendations, and best practices to ensure consistent execution.
• Communicate regularly with executive leadership on project progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations.

Financial Management & Value Engineering

• Create and manage CapEx budgets for new venue projects, ensuring alignment with company financial objectives.
• Utilize value engineering principles to identify cost-saving measures, operational efficiencies, and innovative approaches.
• Monitor financial health of projects, adjusting forecasts and strategies to optimize return on investment.

Process Improvement & Innovation

• Continuously refine development processes, procedures, and standards to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain high-quality outcomes.
• Stay informed of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices, bringing fresh ideas to the table to maintain Escapology’s competitive edge.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement across teams and stakeholders.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, Business, or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in real estate development, construction, or a related field; franchise or entertainment/retail experience is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated track record of successfully delivering multi-site projects on time, within budget, and to specified quality standards.

Technical & Leadership Skills

• In-depth knowledge of permitting, zoning, building codes, and construction industry best practices.
• Exceptional project management and organizational abilities with proficiency in relevant PM tools (e.g., MS Project, Asana, or similar).
• Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills; adept at influencing senior leaders and external partners.
• Ability to lead and mentor cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and accountability.

Other Requirements

Willingness and ability to travel as needed to support site visits, franchise meetings, and vendor relations.

Comfortable operating within a hybrid work model, balancing remote responsibilities with in-office collaboration.

Why Join Escapology?

Impactful, High-Growth Environment!

Drive the strategic expansion of a global entertainment brand, shaping the future of immersive experiences.

Leadership & Collaboration

Work alongside industry-leading professionals and franchise partners, inspiring innovation and excellence.

Competitive Compensation & Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for professional development to support your career growth.

Ready to shape the future of immersive entertainment?

Apply now to join Escapology and lead our next era of dynamic, memorable escape room experiences.

Escapology is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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