Special Projects manager

OverviewThe Special Projects Manager is responsible for leading and executing key marketing initiatives that support corporate priorities, franchise operations, and strategic partnerships across multiple brands. This role manages complex projects from concept through execution, serving as a central coordination point for creative, media, digital, operations, and external vendors. The Special Projects Manager ensures alignment across stakeholders, drives marketing programs forward, and maintains brand integrity while supporting both national and local market growth.ResponsibilitiesCorporate Marketing & Strategic InitiativesManage all marketing functions for corporate initiatives, including contract maintenance, partnership program oversight, and executive reporting.Research, evaluate, and present media buying opportunities across TV, radio, billboard, digital, and emerging channels.Audit, manage, and execute updates to brand and corporate websites.Support the VP of Marketing with nationwide corporate sponsorships, including negotiation, reporting, and campaign execution.Identify new opportunities and activities to promote business growth.Franchise Marketing Support & PlanningServe as the primary marketing contact for domestic and international franchise partners, coordinating creative, media, digital, and promotional needs.Develop and manage integrated marketing plans tailored to local markets while ensuring alignment with national brand standards, menu strategy, and operational guidelines.Guide franchisees through campaign briefs, approvals, timelines, KPIs, and performance reporting.Maintain, update, and distribute brand guidelines, templates, and toolkits; ensure asset accuracy in SharePoint/Teams and remove outdated materials.Traffic all creative requests through Workfront, coordinating closely with design, copy, and production teams.Manage assets through Bynder and SharePoint, collaborating on photoshoots, production timelines, and vendor activities.Ensure franchise compliance with digital standards across websites, listings, email, and social media; partner with corporate counterparts on content calendars and engagement guidelines.Coordinate with Operations on menu audits and updates affecting local marketing; communicate and support brand‑consistent execution.Oversee collateral ordering and delivery for franchise locations, ensuring on‑time and on‑budget fulfillment.Assist with the creation and rollout of promotions using print, broadcast, outdoor, digital, social media, and internal collateral.Project Management & Cross-Functional CollaborationCollaborate seamlessly across internal teams (operations, creative, digital, legal, production) and external vendors to drive projects from concept to completion.Maintain deadline discipline, prioritize tasks effectively, and manage multiple deliverables simultaneously.Communicate proactively with leadership, peers, and direct contributors to ensure clarity, alignment, and accountability.QualificationsSkills & AbilitiesExceptional communication, organizational, and relationship‑building skills.Proven ability to influence and collaborate effectively with franchisees, internal stakeholders, and external partners.Strong project management abilities with discipline around deadlines, prioritization, and multitasking.Highly self‑motivated, resourceful, proactive, and capable of working independently.Adept at problem‑solving in a fast‑moving, hands‑on environment.Outgoing, professional demeanor with the ability to function as a strong team member.Strong computer skills in WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.Ability to analyze data, study trends, and translate insights into actions.Willingness to travel up to 10%.BenefitsWhat we offer you:Multiple benefit plans to suit your needsPaid Time Off401KOpportunities for advancementPositive and respectful work environment where diversity is valuedGenerous employee discounts on dining, retail, amusements, and hotelsCommunity volunteer opportunitiesDisclaimer: The above information is intended as a high-level overview of the responsibilities and qualifications for the position and does not represent the full job description which will include all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, and working conditions associated with the job. For more information or to see the full job description, contact the Human Resources department at the location in which you are applying.