Sr. Manager Retail Design Architect EM

Role purpose

Key responsibilities

• Provide creative leadership across Emerging Markets, strategic projects and rollout projects.
• Lead the design journey from briefing and concept development through approval, execution and store opening.
• Support store development teams during execution and adapt designs to site conditions.
• Lead stakeholder design discussions, articulate design rationale and secure timely approvals.
• Coordinate concepts, localisation, graphics, storytelling, materials and finishes with cross-functional teams.
• Conduct site visits, support contractor briefings and review mock-ups, samples and design decisions.
• Develop cost-effective alternatives and optimize materials and finishes without compromising brand experience.
• Manage the design team through resource planning, allocation, performance management, coaching and development.
• Direct agencies, architects, contractors and external partners to maintain design quality.
• Drive innovation through new ideas, materials, formats, pilots, bespoke stores and evolving retail concepts.

Education and experience

• University degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Architectural Engineering or a related design discipline.
• 10–12 years of relevant retail design experience, including complex retail projects and design team leadership.
• Proven experience in creative design, leadership, stakeholder management and delivery across multiple markets.

Knowledge and skills

• Strong creative and conceptual design thinking with a passion for retail design, consumer experience and innovation.
• Strong knowledge of retail design, materials, finishes, detailing and store execution.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to coach and develop a high-performing team.
• Excellent communication, presentation and storytelling skills for influencing stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills balancing design, budget, commercial and site requirements.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities across diverse markets and cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp and Microsoft Office.
• Fluent in English and able to travel domestically and internationally as required.

Key relationships

• Collaborate with Global Retail Design, Brand, Commercial, Real Estate and Store Development teams.
• Partner with Global and Cluster teams, Country Leads, DTC, Marketing, Finance and external suppliers.