The Project Manager will be responsible for managing the execution of projects that support multiple departments across the Dallas Zoo. This includes managing creative requests, project scopes and resources; working with the requesting department, and other key stakeholders, to coordinate timelines; develop project plans; manage deadlines; provide status updates; and deliver final files for production.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Manage incoming creative briefs and next steps for all requested projects.
- Serve as a project management champion, becoming a go-to for any project management and Wrike needs.
- Maintain the organizational structure for projects in Wrike and SharePoint, ensuring process and standards are consistent across all projects and campaigns.
- Manage all aspects of creative projects from initial communication, through creative work and rounds of review, to final file creation.
- Lead kick-off meetings with key stakeholders to gather project needs, priorities, deadlines, and workloads for Marketing team.
- Capture all critical information during kick-off calls and in turn, create project plans for all requested campaigns and projects, keeping them up to date as information may change.
- Develop project timelines in Wrike for each request (1,000-1,500 projects per year anticipated), including information, assets, due dates, etc.
- Send files out for review, manage review process, and follow-up on all projects in Wrike.
- Work directly with creative team to monitor project process and ensure team members have the means (in time and resources) to deliver quality work and all deadlines are met.
- Run internal check-in meetings to ensure all projects are on track and meeting project requestors’ needs.
- Build and manage relationships with external vendors to understand project timelines and processes, to ensure internal timelines and creative needs align with vendor needs.
- Serve as main interface between creative team and project requestors, while collaborating with the marketing team to ensure projects are consistent with brand standards.
- Ensure projects are delivered within time, cost, and quality standards.
- Effectively and proactively identify roadblocks or challenges within a project and work collaboratively to find resolution / solution.
- Assist with public and member special events, as needed.
- Contribute to maintaining central marketing / communications departmental files on SharePoint.
- Manage multiple project calendars and spreadsheets at the same time.
- Support the efforts of the greater Marketing team.
- Perform other duties, as required.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Three to five years’ experience in project management positions, preferably working directly with creative and/or account management roles.
- B.A., B.S. or equivalent degree or work experience equivalent.
- Proficient in the consistent use of a project management tool, preferably Wrike, Asana, or Workfront.
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- Basic print, interactive, and photo/video asset production knowledge.
- Strong organizational and planning skills a must; outstanding management of documentation, materials, information, and timelines.
- Exhibit exceptional writing and listening skills. Ability to effectively distill messages and briefs into clear, concise project plans.
- Able to work calmly under pressure, juggle multiple tasks and projects simultaneously, and make quick decisions in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a pleasant attitude.
- High degree of adaptability. Must be able to shift priorities seamlessly while remaining efficient and effective.
- Self-motivated with ability to work with little or no supervision. Ability to take initiative to solve issues as they arise and accept constructive criticism as given.
- Desire to be an integral part of a team and work together to accomplish goals.
- Collaborative, passionate, and fun to work with.
- Must be able to establish and maintain an effective rapport with all levels of management, employees, and Zoo guests.
- Commitment to the mission and values of the Dallas Zoo.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Periodically works irregular hours, including some nights, holidays and weekends, as needed.
- Ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work.
- This may involve some lifting, carrying, moving, pushing, and/or pulling of objects/materials of light weight (15-20 pounds). Some climbing on ladders or over obstacles may be required.
- Tasks may also involve significant periods of standing or walking outside during events and photo shoots, as well as during event set-up or break-down times.
- Must be able to follow oral and written instructions.
- Must have a valid driver’s license with reliable transportation.
- Successful candidates must pass pre-employment drug screening and background check.
- All qualified applicants will receive consideration for this position without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry, disabled veterans and veterans of the Vietnam era. EOE M/F/D/V www.dallaszoo.com
