Senior Design Manager

CHANEL; Toronto; On-site; CAD 125,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and wellness benefits

Strong pension plan and bonus program

Generous vacation days

Parental support policies

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

CHANEL in Toronto is seeking a Project Manager to lead design coordination and project management for new builds and renovations related to Fragrance and Beauty, Watches and Fine Jewelry, and more. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of retail store design experience and a strong command of architectural drawings.

This role involves strategic collaboration across the Canadian team to ensure adherence to CHANEL's standards and timely execution of projects, while offering a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10+ years retail store design experience.
• Use of AutoCAD and SketchUp is mandatory.
• PMP designation or LEED accreditation is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Lead design coordination and project management for new builds and renovations.
• Work with internal teams to implement operational requirements.
• Manage budgeting and forecasting for assigned projects.

Skills

Retail store design experience

Architectural and engineering drawings comprehension

Construction site understanding

AutoCAD

SketchUp

PMP designation or LEED accreditation

Experience with COUPA

Education

Degree in Interior Design, Architecture or equivalent experience

Job description

Location

CHANEL Toronto Offices, ON

Reports to

Head of Store Planning

Contract

Permanent & Full-Time

Job Summary

Lead all phases of design coordination, construction project management, procurement, and financial reporting for all new projects and existing asset renovations relating to Fragrance and Beauty, Watches and Fine Jewelry, Fashion and CHANEL Corporate offices within Canada. Demonstrate a command of the brand’s image, adhere to CHANEL global guidelines, and work hand in hand with other business units within the Canadian team.

Key Responsibilities

• Project management and execution for all new F&B, Fashion, WFJ, and Corporate builds and renovations throughout all phases.
• Responsible for local adaptation of drawings and concept renderings received from UK regional Store Planning team.
• Design and coordinate all back‑of‑house stockrooms and operational spaces.
• Hire and work with local professionals to prepare full working drawing packages for permit, tender, and construction.
• Work closely with internal cross‑functional teams to understand their needs and implement operational requirements into the design.
• Prepare planning, budgeting, and forecasting of assigned projects and review with the Head of Store Planning, CFO, and President.
• Monthly reporting to the Head of Store Planning on all active projects.
• Perform site visits and collaborate with CHANEL’s Repair and Maintenance Manager to ensure brand image standards are maintained.
• Obtain relevant approval for proposed design and ensure subsequent detailing, specification, and overall project management is of the highest standard.
• Update the Project Critical Path, ensuring that the design is both on time and on budget.
• Manage and ensure rapid and efficient work output.
• Responsible for managing, reviewing, and implementing design of audio‑visual, security, information technology, lighting, and loss‑prevention systems.
• Work with the landlord’s tenant coordination team and negotiate best outcomes for the brand.
• Ensure landlord’s handover conditions meet brand standards and executed lease document.
• Select and award general contractors, suppliers, and consultant team.
• Lead walk‑throughs on the construction site with external and internal team members as required.
• Identify discrepancies between approved drawings and site conditions, finding resolutions to avoid time or budget impact.
• Issue status reports to regional and local teams during construction.
• Inspect quality of all finishes, furniture, materials, and products that arrive on site, working with suppliers on replacements if required.

Management of Shop Fitters and Installation

• Effective management of the selected shop fitters to ensure timely, high‑quality and correct delivery and installation of all CHANEL millwork.
• Oversee site control and inspection of installation where necessary and ensure compliance with local building and health and safety regulations.
• Review and approval of shop drawings.
• Ensure timely delivery of all necessary components for installation and timely distribution of relevant drawings to Merchandising Manager, Display Representatives, and other parties.

Administrative and Procurement

• Collaborate with the CFO to keep all design works within budget.
• Manage coding of incoming and outgoing invoices and payments related to each project.
• Write POs using COUPA, issue them to vendors, track invoices, and coordinate with finance for payment.
• Manage directly procured product shipments from suppliers, clear goods at the border, and arrange delivery to storage or construction site.
• Ensure negotiated quotes are of best value and quality; include insurance and warranties when possible.
• Adhere to CHANEL’s procurement policy, green guidelines, and sustainability efforts.
• Travel within Canada for 30% of the role.

Legal and Leasing

• Support legal and leasing teams with lease documents related to store design and construction.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10+ years retail store design experience on client or agency side.
• Degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or equivalent experience on luxury retail projects.
• Strong comprehension of architectural and engineering drawings.
• Confidence and practical understanding of a construction site.
• PMP designation or LEED accreditation is an asset.
• Use of AutoCAD and SketchUp mandatory; use of Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, and Excel an asset.
• Experience with COUPA is an asset.

What you would gain

• The opportunity to develop and be part of a dynamic team and work environment.
• Understanding of how the company operates to high standards.
• An environment to express curiosity and abilities, contributing to long‑term growth.
• Competitive base salary: $125,000‑$135,000 plus bonus.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness – Private medical and dental insurance, long‑term disability coverage, life insurance, and accidental death and dismemberment insurance (option to add family members).
• Financial Security – Strong pension plan and bonus program.
• Time to Recharge – Generous vacation days, sick leave, volunteering days, and a day off for your birthday.
• Parental Support – Robust global parental leave policy.
• Employee Assistance Program – 24/7 access to resources, counseling, legal support, wellness services, and financial guidance.
• Professional Growth & Development – Mentorship programs, learning opportunities, career advancement within the company.
• Benefits are eligibility dependent and subject to change at any time.

Equal Employment Opportunity

CHANEL CANADA ULC. welcomes all applicants for this position. We are committed to fair and accessible employment practices. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.