Store Design Lead

Astrid & Miyu; Chigwell; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the retail sector is seeking a Store Design Lead to drive innovative design projects that elevate the customer experience. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in retail design, a strong educational background in design, and proven leadership skills. This role involves managing design processes, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring adherence to brand standards while promoting sustainability.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of relevant retail design experience.
• 2+ years in a senior design management role.
• Proficiency in design software and tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design process from concepts to execution.
• Inspire and manage a team of designers.
• Collaborate with various teams to deliver store projects.

Skills

Design Innovation

Team Management

Cross-team Collaboration

Education

Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Store Design Lead Mission:

To be the creative force behind Astrid & Miyu's growth by driving design projects that bring our brand to life in new, exciting ways, whether opening new stores, reimagining existing spaces, or pioneering fresh retail concepts. Your vision will help us push boundaries, elevate the customer journey, and set new standards for innovation.

How you'll drive success:

Design Innovation

• Lead the entire design process from initial concepts to final execution, ensuring the highest quality of creative output, delivered on time and within budget, while adhering to industry regulations.
• Stay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and the competitive landscape to ensure Astrid & Miyu retail design remains innovative and forward-thinking.
• Take the lead in creating new store concepts with the goal of scalability. This includes researching materials, refining details, exploring potential cost reductions, and translating the Astrid & Miyu brand & values into design.
• Maintain a sustainable and circular mindset in all design activities to contribute to Astrid & Miyu's sustainability goals.

People Management

• Inspire and manage our team of designers through a reverse-leadership approach, fostering a culture of innovation, empowerment, and creativity.
• Oversee the design process from start to finish, collaborating with project managers, retail, creative, product, marketing, VM, and other teams.

Cross-team Collaboration

• Work with creative & branding teams to ensure a cohesive omni-channel brand experience.
• Coordinate with project managers, architects, landlords, and planning teams to deliver store projects on time, within budget, and to brand standards.
• Manage external design agencies as needed, including briefing, budget management, and creative direction.
• Assist the Retail Director in assessing the feasibility of new store locations and projects.

What you'll need to thrive:

• 6+ years of relevant retail design experience and 2+ years in a senior design management role.
• Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a related field.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office.
• Strong alignment with our values, acting as a brand ambassador and role model for your team.
• Influential presence with authentic inspiration skills.
• Ability to develop and mentor high-performing teams fostering learning and growth.

The Interview Process and Candidate Experience:

• Life Story & Values
• Experience Interview
• Final Interview