Project Manager

Tasks
This isn’t just a project management role—it’s a launchpad for leadership. You’ll be responsible for overseeing the development, execution, and scaling of our fast casual concept from the ground up. Initially, the role will be heavily focused on hands-on operations, ensuring every detail from supply chain logistics to store management runs smoothly. Even after the initial launch, the position will require relentless on-site oversight to maintain operational excellence and brand standards. As the business grows, you’ll transition into a CEO or COO role, leading the company’s strategic direction and long-term growth.
**Key Responsibilities**:

- Project Leadership & Execution:
Lead the end-to-end development and launch of our fast casual concept, ensuring every milestone—from concept to store opening—is executed flawlessly. This will include a hands-on apporach to launch the first concept and requires a daily overview of operations.
- Strategic Planning:
Work closely with the founders to shape the long-term vision and strategy for the fast casual business. Identify growth opportunities, market trends, and operational efficiencies.
- Cross-Functional Management:
Coordinate and manage internal teams (operations, marketing, logistics, finance) and external stakeholders (suppliers, contractors, agencies) to ensure seamless execution.
- Operational Excellence:
Develop and refine operational processes to maximize efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and customer satisfaction. Ensure smooth procurement, logistics, and day-to-day store management.
- Leadership Development:
Build and mentor a high-performing team as the business scales. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and excellence.
- Financial Oversight:
Manage budgets, optimize costs, and track key financial KPIs to ensure profitability. Work with the finance team to develop sustainable growth models.
- Brand Stewardship:
Ensure every aspect of the fast casual concept aligns with Madame Sum’s premium brand positioning, from store design to customer experience.
**Requirements**:

- Love Food:
We are all about making the best dumplings and food is our passion. You are absessed about food.
- Leadership Potential:
You’re not just managing projects—you’re thinking like a future CEO/COO. You’re ready to take ownership and lead this venture to success.
- Experience:

- 3+ years of experience in project management, operations, or business development, preferably in the fast casual, QSR, hospitality, or retail sectors.
- Proven track record of launching and scaling new concepts or businesses.
- Skills:

- Strong leadership and organizational skills with the ability to inspire and manage cross-functional teams.
- Strategic thinker with a hands-on, problem-solving approach.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Financial acumen to manage budgets, optimize costs, and drive profitability.
- Entrepreneurial Mindset:
You thrive in dynamic environments, embrace challenges, and are excited by the idea of building something from scratch.
- Technical Proficiency:
Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana) and Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with supply chain logistics is a plus.
- Language:
Fluency in German and English is required; French is a plus.

**Benefits**:

- A unique opportunity to transition into a CEO/COO role in a high-potential, fast-growing company.
- Be at the forefront of innovation in the fast casual space, blending culinary excellence with operational efficiency.
- Work closely with the founders in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment with room for growth and impact.
- Shape the future of Madame Sum’s expansion, both locally and internationally.
- Join a team committed to premium quality, creativity, and excellence.

If you’re passionate about food, operations, and building businesses from the ground up, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and the following pitch (pdf & video):
Pitch Assignment for Project Manager Role (Future CEO/COO)
“How would you launch and scale a premium fast casual dining concept in Switzerland, balancing speed, quality, brand differentiation, and creative innovation in a competitive market?”
However, we want more than just ideas—we want to see how you handle real-world challenges and demonstrate an entrepreneurial mindset. Your pitch should reflect your ability to stay customer-focused, persevere through obstacles, and get things done no matter how tough it gets, while also bringing fresh, creative solutions to the table.
**What We’re Looking For**:
**1. Endurance & Problem-Solving**:
Describe a scenario where things don’t go as planned (e.g., delays in opening, supply chain issues, staffing challenges). How would you overcome these hurdles to ensure the project stays on track?
**2. Customer-Oriented Thinking**:
How would you design a memorable customer experience that keeps people coming back? Think about everything from store la