Manager, Design & Store Planning

Overview
The Manager, Design and Store Planning plays a critical role in shaping the customer experience across our retail network. You’ll lead the design and development of new, expanded, and renovated stores, ensuring alignment with national standards, operational needs, and the Capital Plan. This role guides a team of design professionals, collaborates with cross‑functional partners, and delivers high‑quality, cost‑effective design solutions that support our brand and business objectives.

What You’ll Focus On
Store Design Leadership

Lead the design and development of new, expanded, and renovated retail stores, from site planning to decor, in alignment with the Capital Plan.
Provide direction to Design Staff in the execution and production of design drawings and plans.
Foster a positive, collaborative, and innovative team environment.

Design Standards & Project Delivery

Partner with Real Estate Design, Real Estate, Regional Construction, Project Management, and Retail Operations to ensure project plans reflect company objectives.
Oversee Design Staff, including hiring, onboarding, workload planning, training, performance management, and succession planning.
Collaborate with the National Design team to develop design concepts for all projects.
Conduct site reviews with regional stakeholders to define scope for major capital projects.
Review and secure signoff on project scope with Regional Retail Operations; ensure all design documents for REAC submission are accurate and on schedule.
Manage external design consultants to ensure drawings are completed accurately, on time, and within budget.
Work with Construction and Project Management teams to develop project design schedules.
Support Procurement to ensure accurate execution of the Capital Plan.
Assist Real Estate with design components of agreements, including site plan reviews, elevations, and technical assessments.
Support Construction Project Management throughout execution; conduct periodic site reviews to resolve design issues.
Participate in final inspections and post‑mortems to identify opportunities for improvement.
Maintain a clean and safe work environment in accordance with company standards.

Processes & Systems

Follow established processes, protocols, and technical standards for all design activities.

Relationship Management

Work closely with regional stakeholders to address region‑specific needs.
Provide guidance, insight, and technical expertise to cross‑functional teams.

People Leadership

Foster a coaching and mentoring culture that supports team development and growth.

Continuous Improvement

Promote a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging and recognizing innovative ideas.

What You Bring

Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Construction or Architectural Technology.
8+ years of experience, including 5–10 years as a Senior Store Planner in the retail industry (grocery preferred).
Project management experience within an architectural or design environment.
Strong background in retail grocery store design.
Expertise in developing retail site plans, preliminary layouts, and fixture plans.
Proficiency in AutoCAD/Revit and Microsoft Office.
Solid understanding of Building Code requirements and local government regulations.
Ability to provide clear direction and make informed decisions on design issues with consultants.
Excellent presentation, communication, and time‑management skills.
Proven relationship‑building and stakeholder‑management capabilities.
Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
Strong understanding of expense and budget management.

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