Project Manager, Store Planning & Visual Merchandising

About the Role

Puig is seeking a Project Manager for Store Planning & Visual Merchandising to oversee the complete lifecycle of retail design and visual merchandising projects. This role is crucial for new store openings, renovations, and seasonal updates across a diverse brand portfolio, including Niche brands and Dr. Barbara Sturm. The Project Manager will bridge the gap between creative concepts, construction, vendors, and field operations, ensuring projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and adhere to brand standards. This position requires strong project management skills, a keen eye for design, and a thorough understanding of retail environments.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple store planning and visual merchandising projects from inception to completion, encompassing concept development, design documentation, fabrication, and installation.
• Create and maintain detailed project timelines, identifying key milestones, potential risks, and dependencies.
• Ensure all projects adhere to the approved scope, budget, and deadlines.
• Coordinate installation schedules to guarantee readiness for store openings and seasonal product launches.
• Conduct site assessments, supervise installations, and provide support for resolving post-opening issues.
• Collaborate with the Director of Retail to translate creative visions into tangible project outcomes.
• Assist in the development and implementation of store layouts, fixture designs, and visual merchandising elements.
• Review architectural drawings, specifications, and vendor proposals to confirm alignment with design intent and brand guidelines.
• Contribute to and maintain global standards for store design and visual merchandising.
• Coordinate project timelines across various departments including Store Design & VM, Procurement, Finance, and Field Operations.
• Work with field teams to ensure in-store execution meets brand expectations.
• Act as the main liaison for external vendors such as millworkers, fixture manufacturers, and VM production partners.
• Manage the bidding process, vendor schedules, and deliverables.
• Monitor fabrication progress and proactively address any production or installation challenges.
• Oversee project budgets, purchase orders, and invoicing in conjunction with Finance and Procurement.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising design quality.
• Support value engineering efforts and operational decision-making processes.
• Provide regular project status updates and reports to stakeholders and leadership.
• Prepare comprehensive project summaries and executive-level reports.
• Proactively identify risks and propose solutions for potential issues.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Visual Merchandising, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 to 8 years of professional experience in retail store design, visual merchandising, or project management.
• Demonstrated experience supporting retail store openings and rollouts is highly preferred.
• A solid understanding of retail environments, fixtures, materials, and construction methodologies.
• Proficiency in reading and annotating architectural drawings.
• Competence in CAD software and project management tools.
• Excellent organizational and time management capabilities.
• Proven ability to manage daily tasks effectively, prioritizing shifting demands and competing objectives.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the capacity to collaborate effectively across different teams.

Perks

• Competitive salary package.
• Comprehensive benefits including health and dental insurance.
• Life and disability insurance coverage.
• 401K retirement savings plan.
• Paid holidays.
• Generous paid time-off policy.
• Hybrid work environment.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a dynamic organization.

Eligibility

This position is open to candidates with a Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Visual Merchandising, or a related discipline, and 5-8 years of relevant experience in retail store design, visual merchandising, or project management. Prior experience with retail store openings and rollouts is a plus. Candidates must possess a strong understanding of retail environments, fixtures, materials, and construction processes, be able to interpret architectural drawings, and be proficient in CAD and project management software. Excellent organizational, time management, interpersonal, and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to manage shifting priorities and work effectively across departments.

Additional Information

Puig is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Puig believes that a diverse and inclusive environment strengthens the business and fosters innovation. The company is family-owned and aims to create desirable beauty and fashion brands that empower individuals, with a commitment to ESG principles aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals.