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Emerging Blue Jobs

Director, Store Planning, Design, & Visual Merchandising Job at Emerging Blue Jo

Emerging Blue Jobs, New Orleans, LA, US, 70123

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Job Description

Job Description
Our client, an independent eyewear brand, is searching for a Director of Store Planning, Design & Visual Merchandising, to lead the strategic vision, planning, and execution of all physical spaces and experiences. This includes oversight of store design, construction project management, brand-aligned visual displays and merchandising, and cross-functional coordination to ensure brand consistency and high-impact environments across all locations. This role bridges creativity with operational execution, influencing how our communities experience our brand in person.

Key Responsibilities

Store Planning & Design
  • Lead the full store development lifecycle: site feasibility, layout planning, schematic design, permitting, construction execution, and post-mortem analysis.
  • Lead a cross-functional team, including direct reports and managed vendors. Define the optimal balance between internal and outsourced resources to scale design and execution effectively.
  • Guide architectural and aesthetic guidelines across new formats, including flagships, mobile, pop-up, and renovation projects.
  • Develop and evolve scalable design standards, materials libraries, and fixture guidelines that reflect the brand’s unique identity.
  • Develop and manage store build calendars, capital budgets, and project timelines.
  • Conduct site visits to monitor construction quality, troubleshoot issues, and ensure brand fidelity.
Visual Merchandising & Brand Experience
  • Establish seasonal and evergreen visual merchandising standards across all retail formats.
  • Develop floor sets, window displays, and in-store storytelling strategies in partnership with Retail Merchandising, Brand, and Creative.
  • Oversee VM training programs and toolkits to support consistent execution by store teams.
  • Ensure brand standards and business objectives are met across all physical environments.
Construction & Facilities Oversight
  • Lead vendor selection, negotiation, and management for architects, designers, contractors, millworkers, and FF&E providers.
  • Ensure all locations comply with brand standards.
Team Leadership & Resource Strategy
  • Build and manage a high-performing team of internal specialists and external partners.
  • Define and implement a hybrid operating model that scales design and build functions efficiently.
  • Set clear goals, performance metrics, and standards for internal and external contributors.
  • Foster a culture of standards excellence, accountability, and cross-functional collaboration.
Innovation & Strategic Growth
  • Monitor trends in retail design, furniture, and materials to inform innovation.
  • Pilot new store formats and experiential concepts in partnership with Retail and Brand.
  • Create feedback loops to incorporate post-opening learnings into future rollouts.
Qualifications
  • 7+ years of experience in store planning, construction management, visual merchandising, or interior design, ideally in retail, hospitality, or experiential environments.
  • Demonstrated success leading store development and design strategy from concept to execution.
  • Advanced knowledge of construction, architectural, and visual merchandising.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a creative eye and high aesthetic sensibility.
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and project management software.
  • Familiarity with CAD, SketchUp, and construction management platforms.
  • Willingness to travel regularly for store visits and vendor/partner coordination.
Benefits and Perks
  • Competitive wage
  • Group health plans: health, vision, and dental insurance
  • Welfare benefits: life, AD&D, supplemental voluntary coverage
  • FSA Plan & HSA Program
  • 401(K) Investment Options
  • Adoption Assistance, EAP, Commuter Benefits
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Quarterly Cultural Spend
  • Ongoing Training and Development, an Educational Allowance
  • 10 paid holidays and Paid Time Off accrual
  • Employee quarterly frame allowance
Salary: $150k-$160k