Project Manager

JOB SUMMARY

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