Design Manager Jobs in Whitby, ON (NOW HIRING)

Ready to build what's next with one of the world's most iconic brands?

At Subway, we are not standing still. We are building. This is a business focused on what matters most: growing franchisee profitability, strengthening our brand and creating long-term value. The people who thrive here are the ones who want to make a real impact. You will not just do the work. You will shape it.

We move fast. We think like owners. We make decisions that matter. We hold ourselves to a high standard because what we do directly impacts thousands of franchisees around the world. If you bring energy, accountability and a bias for action, you will fit right in. We take the work seriously, but we also know the best results come from teams that support each other, celebrate wins and show up ready to build something better every day. This is your chance to be part of what's next.

The Construction Manager is responsible for overseeing the end-to-end execution of new restaurant openings (NROs) and relocation projects across Canada. Ensure that all construction projects are delivered on time, on budget, and in compliance with Subway brand standards, while providing a high level of support to franchisees throughout the development lifecycle. Acting as the primary construction lead, partner closely with Real Estate, Design, Leasing, and Franchise Sales to translate approved sites into fully operational restaurants. The Construction Manager plays a critical role in maintaining development momentum by proactively managing timelines, mitigating risks, and ensuring alignment across all stakeholders.

Project Execution & Delivery

• Oversee the full lifecycle of new restaurant openings and relocation projects, from site turnover through to grand opening.
• Ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and aligned with brand and construction standards.
• Monitor construction progress, identify risks early, and implement solutions to maintain timelines.
• Conduct regular site visits to ensure quality, compliance, and adherence to approved plans.

Franchisee & Stakeholder Management

• Serve as the primary construction point of contact for franchisees, guiding them through the build process and providing ongoing support.
• Manage relationships with PMs, general contractors, architects, consultants, and vendors to ensure project alignment and accountability.
• Support with franchisee adoption of preferred vendors
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Real Estate, Leasing, Design, and Franchise Sales teams to support seamless project execution.

Scheduling, Budget & Risk Management

• Develop and manage construction schedules, ensuring alignment with permitting, landlord delivery, and opening targets.
• Review project budgets and cost estimates, identifying potential risks and cost overruns.
• Proactively manage construction-related risks including delays, scope changes, and site-specific challenges.

Permitting, Compliance & Standards

• Ensure all projects comply with Canadian building codes, accessibility requirements, and local municipal regulations.
• Support franchisees through the permitting process, including coordination with municipalities and consultants.
• Enforce adherence to Subway construction and brand standards, ensuring consistency across all locations.

Coordination with Design & Development Teams

• Partner with the Design Manager and North America support teams to ensure floor plans are construction-ready and aligned with site conditions.
• Support Real Estate during active deals by providing constructability input and timeline guidance.
• Ensure timely coordination of equipment orders, utility requirements, and landlord work deliverables.

Reporting & Pipeline Visibility

• Maintain accurate tracking of all projects using internal systems (e.g., Smartsheet, FranConnect).
• Provide regular updates on project status, risks, timelines, and openings to leadership.
• Support development reporting and contribute to pipeline visibility and forecasting.
• Support with analytics on predicted vs actual CAPEX costs for each NRO and relocation project

• Bachelors Degree in Construction Management, General Business, Project Management preferred. 
• 5+ years of experience in construction management, project management, or commercial build-outs, preferably within retail or QSR environments.
• Proven experience managing new builds, relocations, and/or remodel projects.
• Strong, comprehensive understanding of construction processes, timelines, and project coordination.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, floor plans, and specifications.
• Experience working with contractors, architects, and consultants.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with tight turnaround times.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, particularly in franchise or client-facing environments.
• Strong working knowledge of Canadian building codes, accessibility standards, and permitting processes; familiarity with Quebec regulations
• Highly organized and self-motivated with the ability to manage workload independently and prioritize effectively.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and engage franchisees professionally.
• Ability to adapt quickly and manage shifting priorities in a fast-paced development environment.
• Preferred: Proficiency with project tracking tools such as Smartsheet, FranConnect, or similar systems
• Preferred: Experience working within a franchise model within QSR or multi-unit retail development
• Bilingual (English/French) is a requirement
• Travel: Ability to travel 10%, as needed 

• Insurance Plans (Medical/Dental/Vision/Life)
• 401k
• Competitive Bonus
• Mobility Allowance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Company Holidays
• Employee Resource Groups
• Volunteering time
• Many More

Actual pay is determined based on a number of job-related factors including skills, education, training, credentials, qualifications, scope and complexity of role responsibilities, geographic location, performance, and working conditions.

The Company is only considering applicants who are currently authorized to work in the country the position is based. AA/EOE/D/V

Subway uses technologyassisted tools to support our recruitment process. These tools strictly help organize and sort applications based on jobrelated qualifications. All decisions are made by people - our recruiting team and hiring managers. If you have questions or would like to request an alternative review process, please let us know.

• Job Family:
• Pay Type: Salary
• Employment Indicator: Regular