Technical Design Manager, Retail Architecture

Aquent is thrilled to partner with a premier global specialty retailer, celebrated for its ability to transform distinct brand visions into extraordinary customer experiences. This is an exceptional opportunity to join their team on a contract basis, where you will directly influence how customers worldwide interact with beloved retail environments. Your expertise will be instrumental in shaping the physical manifestation of these iconic brands, ensuring every space resonates with quality and innovation.

Are you an architectural visionary with a passion for bringing dynamic retail concepts to life? We are seeking a leader in retail architecture and store development to serve as a pivotal technical design professional. In this exciting contract role, you will bridge the gap between creative aspiration and buildable reality, directly impacting the quality, consistency, and constructability of every new store, remodel, and special project. Your contributions will ensure each physical space not only adheres to stringent technical standards and code compliance but also perfectly embodies the brand's unique aesthetic, making you a key voice in the evolution of physical retail experiences.

What You'll Do

• Serve as a critical technical architecture resource, guiding complex retail store projects from initial concept through to successful completion.
• Translate innovative store design intent into practical, code-compliant, and technically sound architectural solutions.
• Conduct comprehensive reviews of architectural deliverables, upholding the highest standards of quality, consistency, and constructability.
• Drive the continuous maintenance and improvement of architectural standards, templates, and critical technical documentation.
• Provide expert guidance and strategic oversight to external architects, consultants, and vendors, ensuring seamless alignment with project objectives.
• Collaborate strategically with internal Store Design and Construction teams to proactively resolve intricate technical design challenges.
• Coordinate seamlessly with cross-functional partners, including Procurement, Visual Merchandising, IT, Loss Prevention, and Store Operations, to ensure integrated and holistic solutions.
• Incorporate valuable insights and learnings derived from field operations and past projects to continuously enhance design standards and processes across the portfolio.
• Provide essential technical support across a diverse portfolio that includes new store openings, strategic remodels, engaging shop-in-shops, and unique special projects.
• Engage in approximately 1-2 project site visits per month to ensure successful implementation, gather critical feedback, and foster continuous improvement.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Interior Architecture, or Interior Design.
• 6+ years of progressive experience in commercial architecture.
• Demonstrated strong knowledge of construction documents and intricate architectural detailing.
• Comprehensive understanding of building codes, accessibility standards, materials science, and diverse construction methods.
• Proven experience in effectively translating abstract design concepts into concrete, technically executable solutions.
• Track record of successfully managing architects, consultants, or other external partners.
• Exceptional project-management and cross-functional communication skills, fostering collaboration and driving results.

Nice to Have

• Significant experience specifically within retail or store-development environments.
• Experience with multi-location or global retail rollout initiatives.
• Prior ownership of architectural/design standards or prototype documentation.
• Experience with Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) responsibilities.
• NCIDQ, LEED accreditation, or an architectural license.
• Experience working across a diverse portfolio of consumer brands.