Leopoldo Abrego

About Leopoldo Abrego

Architect, Facilities Design, Construction Management. Dynamic and results-driven Architect with over 20 years of extensive experience in facilities design and construction management, specializing in commercial design with a focus on Latin American and Caribbean markets. Adept at overseeing all aspects of design and planning for diverse retail and restaurant projects, from concept development to project completion. Fluent in English and Spanish, with a working knowledge of Portuguese and French, ensuring effective communication and collaboration in multicultural environments. Known for a hands-on approach, creative problem-solving abilities, and a keen eye for detail, resulting in the successful delivery of high-quality projects on time and within budget. Proven expertise in retail and restaurant design and construction, including equipment layout and the design of both back-of-house and front-of-house areas. Skilled in finding innovative solutions to challenging project situations and implementing international construction standards and cost reduction practices. Strong leader with a common-sense approach to implementing corporate design strategies, transferring organizational policies and know-how to local design professionals, and nurturing relationships with franchisees and local project stakeholders.Key competencies include: • Project Management: Successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously, overseeing all phases of execution and ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards. • Team Leadership: Lead cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and effective communication to achieve project goals. • Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with upper management, team members, franchisees, and local stakeholders, ensuring alignment and support for project initiatives. • Budget and Pipeline Management: Proficient in budget preparation, cost control, and managing project pipelines for new and remodel projects. • Design and Construction Expertise: Extensive knowledge of retail and restaurant design, construction processes, and industry standards, with a focus on cost-effective and sustainable solutions.• Presentation and Communication Skills: Effective presenter and communicator, able to convey complex concepts and project updates to diverse audiences, including senior executives and external partners.• Cultural Competence: Broad international experience and cultural awareness, enabling effective collaboration and project execution in diverse environments

Experience

1. Construction Retail Project Manager

   The Swatch Group (U. S.) Inc.

   Nov 2022 — Present · Miami, FL, US

   Collaborate with US-based architects and contractors to execute boutique concepts designed by Swiss HQ, ensuring integration of equipment and furnishings. • Propose and manage budgets for new and remodeled boutiques. • Oversee requests for proposals, purchase owner’s items, and approve payment requests. • Monitor construction progress and communicate timelines to stakeholders.

Education

• University of Notre Dame

  Architecture

• University of Notre Dame

  Bachelor of Architecture - BArch, Architecture

• École des Ponts Business School

  MBA in International Business, MBA

  1995 — 1997

• École Nationale Des Ponts Et Chaussées

  Master in International Business, International Business

Skills

• Training
• Negotiation
• Restaurants
• Operations Management
• Renovation
• Process Scheduler
• Facilities Management
• Hospitality
• Submittals
• Strategy
• Contract Negotiation
• Start-Ups
• Contract Management
• Strategic Planning
• Project Management
• Construction Management
• Retail
• Interior Architecture
• Engineering
• Feasibility Studies
• Design Research
• Project Planning
• Restaurant Design
• Leadership
• Budgets
• Contractors
• Construction