Head of Retail Design

Christian Dior Couture

Aug 3

Applications are closed

Job
Full-time
Expert / Leadership (9+ years)
London

Requirements

12 years minimum in a store design role
Architectural background or designer with retail application
Good relationship builder
Experience in management
Knowledge of the cosmetic market an asset but not essential (competitors, agents, retailers…)
Knowledge of French language an advantage but not essential
Strong sense of Design and planning
High levels of creativity and aesthetic sense
Strong communication and negotiation skills
Ability to understand and defend the brand DNA
Knowledge of distribution channels and of all aspects linked to Merchandising in this environment
Customer Service Focused
Ability to manage priorities for self and team
Result orientated
Team player
Architectural / design specialist
Software packages: Autocadds, Archicad, 3D software, Microsoft office packages
Excellent working knowledge of furniture and materials for counter builds
Knowledge of UK based suppliers
Budget management

Responsibilities

Take responsibility from conception to implementation of new counter builds or refurbishments
Produce a creative point of sale design in accordance with the merchandising charter for flagship and A store counters in order to optimize brand visibility
Challenge and negotiate where necessary the store terms and conditions to ensure brand image is not compromised
Liaise with central Merchandising in Paris, the store and the suppliers to meet project deadlines and brand expectations
Be responsible for the designs and scale models of any new counter build. These to be validated by Central Merchandising
Provide project plans, technical specifications and designs to the international purchaser to obtain costings
Work with local suppliers ahead of installations to ensure accurate application of designs, technical specifications and highest possible quality production. Once installations are complete, review the quality and processes giving feedback to suppliers as necessary
Manage 2 Retail Designers (one in charge of FS and A stores, one in charge of B and C store counters and the non-consultant division builds)
Assist with the development of the Dior image via event and promotion sites. Work with the Promotions and Events Merchandiser to assist with conception of major design of promotional / event sites in Department Stores
Prepare relevant plans and 3D for the Promotions & Events Merchandiser
Assist the counter VM manager when needed with counter plans and soft merch coordination

FAQs

What is the primary purpose of the Head of Retail Design role?

The primary purpose of the Head of Retail Design role is to guarantee accurate and qualitative brand image through all new store openings in the UK and Ireland, contributing to the development of the Dior image and ensuring the integrity of institutional brand requirements across Fragrance, Make Up, and Skincare.

What qualifications are required for the Head of Retail Design position?

Candidates should have a minimum of 12 years of experience in a store design role, an architectural background or experience in retail design, and experience in management. Knowledge of the cosmetic market is an asset but not essential.

What key competencies are sought for this position?

Key competencies include a strong sense of design and planning, high levels of creativity and aesthetic sense, strong communication and negotiation skills, and the ability to understand and defend the brand DNA. Additionally, candidates should be customer service-focused and able to manage priorities for themselves and their team.

Who does the Head of Retail Design report to?

The Head of Retail Design reports to the Merchandising Director.

What technical skills are essential for the Head of Retail Design role?

Essential technical skills include being an architectural/design specialist, proficiency in software packages like Autocad, Archicad, and 3D software, and excellent working knowledge of furniture and materials for counter builds.

Will the Head of Retail Design manage a team?

Yes, the Head of Retail Design will manage two Retail Designers.

Is knowledge of the French language a requirement for this position?

No, knowledge of the French language is an advantage but not essential.

What types of projects will the Head of Retail Design be responsible for?

The Head of Retail Design will be responsible for the conception and implementation of new counter builds or refurbishments, creative point-of-sale design, and the development of promotional/event sites in Department Stores.

What is the work location for this position?

The work location for the Head of Retail Design position is in London.

Does the Head of Retail Design work with external parties?

Yes, the Head of Retail Design collaborates with external parties such as creative suppliers, design agencies, contractors, installers, and retailers.

Christian Dior Couture

"Whatever you do,for work or play, do it with passion!" - Monsieur Christian Dior.

Fashion & Arts

Industry

5001-10,000

Employees

1947

Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

Christian Dior was the designer of dreams. In founding his House in 1947, marked by the revolution of the New Look, he metamorphosed his reveries into wonderful creations. His visionary spirit never ceased to make Clients all over the world feel more beautiful, an inspiration for his successors to this day. Christian Dior Couture, the House of Dreams, is recognized for its French heritage & vibrant culture sublimating its unique Savoir-faire and Creativity through empowering "metiers d’art”. Our Maison is a destination for sustainable growth & success where we shape the future of our Talents in a positive, authentic & generous environment. We bloom & deliver excellence with passion, determination, courage & optimism to offer meaningful & daring codes. Rich in exceptional heritage, with a community of more than 12000 talents, our House embodies Christian Dior’s “House of Talents” today more than ever.