Lead - Construction Project Management

On seeks a Lead in Construction Project Management in Zürich to oversee the delivery of premium retail and workplace projects, ensuring strict adherence to timelines and budgets.

Reporting to the Senior Lead within the Real Estate and Development group, this position is responsible for the complete lifecycle of high-end direct-to-consumer stores, B2B locations, showrooms, and office spaces. The primary objective is to guarantee operational excellence by accurately forecasting and protecting both project schedules and financial resources.

Responsibilities

• Oversee construction projects from initial planning through to final handover, ensuring all work aligns with strict opening deadlines and financial constraints.
• Enforce a clear separation between design and construction phases to prevent costly modifications during later stages.
• Direct external project managers, general contractors, and other vendors, retaining final authority over schedule adjustments, budget changes, and change orders.
• Serve as the main point of accountability for financial forecasting and schedule adherence, assessing every on-site issue based on its impact on time and cost.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders to maintain engagement, ensure alignment, and foster enthusiasm regarding construction progress.
• Drive organizational improvement by creating scalable workflows, standardizing reporting structures, and implementing feedback mechanisms after project completion.

Requirements

• At least ten years of experience in project management, specifically delivering premium commercial environments or flagship retail locations.
• Proven ability to manage rigorous schedules using methods like the Critical Path Method, alongside accurate budget estimation and proactive risk mitigation under tight deadlines.
• Strong track record of managing external firms, including architects and general contractors, ensuring they meet strict performance indicators.
• Exceptional communication abilities, with a history of influencing and building trust with demanding internal business partners.
• A structured approach to project management, capable of defining clear milestones, enforcing design freeze dates, and implementing formal change-management processes.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, or Project Management.
• Fluent proficiency in English.

Nice to have

• Prior experience with high-end interior fit-outs.
• Proficiency in additional languages commonly used within the EMEA region.

About the company

The EMEA Construction team at On places a high value on the contributions of its members, ensuring that those who drive the department's success receive full recognition. By combining a strong internal foundation with specialized external expertise, the team aims to elevate the company's retail expansion efforts through strategic collaboration and industry knowledge.

• The team recognizes and credits the individuals responsible for building its success.
• There is a strategic blend of internal talent and external expert knowledge to enhance retail growth.
• The organization values the exceptional work produced by its construction professionals.