VP - Architecture & Design

Saho Hospitality Group•New York, NY

About The Position

SA Hospitality Group is a premier operator of high-end Italian restaurants, with a portfolio that includes three distinguished brands: Sant Ambroeus, Casa Lever, and Felice. Each brand is celebrated for its unique character, authentic Italian heritage, and commitment to delivering refined dining experiences. Our mission is to preserve the authenticity of each brand while maintaining operational excellence and aesthetic consistency across all locations. The VP of Construction and Design will be a senior leader responsible for the construction and renovation of SA Hospitality Group’s properties. This role will ensure that new projects are completed on time and within budget. The position will require close coordination with external architects, vendors, and project managers, as well as collaboration with internal teams to align on construction efforts with the company’s brand values. The VP will also be responsible for developing a comprehensive architectural brand book that captures the heritage and design principles of Sant Ambroeus, Casa Lever, and Felice, setting clear standards for future projects.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Interior Design, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
10+ years of experience in construction management, preferably within hospitality or high-end retail sectors.
Proven expertise in multi-location project management and brand guideline development, with a track record of maintaining high standards across diverse properties.
Strong design sense with an ability to translate brand identity into architectural and interior design standards.
Excellent project management skills, including budget and timeline oversight, as well as cross-functional team leadership.
Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to manage relationships with internal teams and external partners.
Ability to travel as required, including visits to restaurant locations in the US and Europe.

Responsibilities

Oversee all construction processes for new restaurant projects, ensuring timely and budget-conscious completion that aligns with SA Hospitality Group’s standards.
Create and manage construction budgets, timelines, and milestones, addressing any issues that may arise to prevent delays.
Coordinate closely with external architects, vendors, and project managers to align on brand design specifications, project milestones, and deliverables.
Collaborate with internal teams, including operations, finance, and brand, to align on project objectives, operational requirements, and budget management.
Maintain strong, clear communication with stakeholders across the US and EU, ensuring alignment on architectural standards and project expectations.
Prepare and manage budgets for construction, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and within financial constraints.
Negotiate contracts with vendors and suppliers, securing competitive pricing and ensuring adherence to quality standards.
Ensure that all construction activities comply with local regulations, health and safety standards, and environmental guidelines.
Implement quality control measures to guarantee that all projects meet the group’s standards for craftsmanship and design excellence.
Lead the creation of an architectural brand book that embodies the heritage, aesthetic, and design principles of Sant Ambroeus, Casa Lever, and Felice.
Establish design guidelines and architectural standards that ensure visual and experiential consistency across all locations, while honoring each brand’s unique identity.
Collaborate with designers and brand teams to root these guidelines in Italian heritage and uphold the luxurious, high-end experience that guests expect.