Design Manager, Retail

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Retail Company: Vuori, Inc Location: New York, New York, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Retail Design Operations Date Posted: December 04, 2025 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical in shaping the physical retail presence of Vuori, encompassing all aspects of store design from initial concept to final execution.
• The Design Manager will be instrumental in translating brand identity into functional and aesthetically pleasing retail environments across national and international locations.
• This position requires a strong blend of creative design expertise, project management acumen, and cross-functional collaboration skills to ensure seamless project delivery.
• The role demands a deep understanding of retail design trends, construction administration, and budget management within a fast-paced, growth-oriented company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Retail Design Operations, focusing on the strategic and tactical execution of physical store development, which is a key component of a company's Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy for brick-and-mortar channels.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop initial test fit floor plans, facade designs, and signage concepts, creating detailed drawings to effectively communicate design intent to Architects of Record (AOR).
• Collaborate closely with internal departments including Real Estate, Construction, Visual Merchandising, Marketing, and Operations to ensure all store designs align with established brand standards and operational requirements.
• Work in tandem with the VP of Development and Sr. Design Manager to implement the overarching design vision and uphold both brand and operational integrity across all retail spaces.
• Create comprehensive presentation materials, including plans, 3D renderings, hand sketches, inspiration boards, and material sample collections, for senior management review and approval of design concepts.
• Manage external Architects of Record and design teams throughout all project phases, from Due Diligence and Schematic Design (SD) through Design Development (DD), Construction Documents (CD), and Construction Administration (CA).
• Coordinate and manage permit expediters in conjunction with the AOR to ensure timely regulatory approvals and adherence to project schedules.
• Proactively manage and forecast the schedule for assigned pipeline projects, providing weekly updates to the Development team on project status and potential roadblocks.
• Review and approve architectural plans, elevations, and relevant shop drawings, verifying that design details are accurate and precisely meet brand standards.
• Conduct regular weekly meetings with external consultants and internal cross-functional teams to ensure alignment, address challenges, and drive project momentum.
• Liaise with owner-supplied vendors regarding design details, shop drawings, purchase orders, and project schedules to facilitate smooth procurement and installation processes.
• Negotiate and meticulously maintain the design budget and consultant contracts, ensuring financial accountability and optimal resource allocation.
• Actively research and stay abreast of current trends in global culture, retail design, architecture, fashion, art, and other relevant fields to inform and innovate store concepts.
• Support the development and ongoing maintenance of store design standards and prototype documentation, ensuring consistency and scalability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a strong project management component, requiring the candidate to balance creative vision with practical execution, vendor management, and adherence to budget and schedule, which are core to operations roles in retail development.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture or Interior Design is preferred; equivalent years of relevant professional experience will also be considered.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of design experience, with a strong preference for candidates with in-house experience working for a global retail brand’s store design team. Experience managing projects through the full construction administration process is essential.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to articulate and sketch/detail design concepts for documentation and to ensure constructability.
• Expertise in managing the construction administration process.
• Superior organizational skills, with a demonstrated ability to plan, prioritize, multi-task, and manage projects independently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, essential for cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Sketchup, and BlueBeam.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, working effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Revit, Enscape, or 3D Max for advanced visualization and modeling.
• Familiarity with global retail design trends and cultural influences.
• Experience managing design budgets and consultant contracts.
• Strong understanding of brand identity translation into physical retail spaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on software proficiency (AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, Sketchup, BlueBeam) and construction administration experience suggests a need for a technically adept individual who can bridge the gap between creative design and operational execution. The preference for in-house retail brand experience points to an understanding of brand consistency and scalable design solutions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse retail design projects, ideally including new store openings, remodels, or pop-up concepts.
• Clearly articulate the project's design intent, objectives, and the specific challenges addressed.
• Demonstrate proficiency in translating brand guidelines into cohesive and compelling retail environments.
• Include detailed examples of test fit plans, facade concepts, and interior design elements.
• Highlight experience with construction documentation and the ability to convey design details for constructability.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how design concepts were presented to stakeholders and senior management, including mock-ups of presentation materials (e.g., renderings, mood boards, material palettes).
• Illustrate experience in managing project timelines and budgets, potentially through project overview documents or case studies that detail budget adherence and schedule management.
• Showcase familiarity with the process of engaging and managing external consultants (Architects of Record, permit expediters) and owner-supplied vendors.
• Include documentation that reflects an understanding of construction administration, such as examples of reviewed architectural plans or shop drawings, demonstrating attention to detail and brand standard adherence.

📝 Enhancement Note: A robust portfolio is essential for this role, as it directly demonstrates the candidate's ability to execute complex retail design projects from concept through to construction. The focus should be on practical application, project management capabilities, and the translation of brand strategy into tangible retail spaces.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $100,000 - $120,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options.
• Savings and Retirement Plan: Access to a 401(k) or similar retirement savings plan with potential company match.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges.
• Generous Vuori Discount & Industry Perks: Significant discounts on Vuori apparel and potential benefits from industry partnerships.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): A structured system for paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Wellness & Fitness Benefits: Programs and incentives to support employee health and well-being, aligning with Vuori's active lifestyle ethos.

Working Hours: The role is based on a standard 40-hour work week, typical for full-time positions, with the expectation of flexibility to meet project deadlines and manage cross-functional meetings across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $100,000 - $120,000 per year for a Design Manager in New York, NY, aligns with industry benchmarks for experienced professionals in creative and project management roles within the retail sector in a high-cost-of-living area. The benefits package is competitive and reflects a commitment to employee well-being and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Athletic Apparel & Retail. Vuori operates within the competitive and dynamic athletic apparel market, known for its focus on performance, comfort, and a lifestyle inspired by coastal California living. This industry context means a fast-paced environment with a strong emphasis on brand storytelling and customer experience.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated in the provided data, given the mention of national and international store rollouts, Vuori is likely a mid-to-large-sized company experiencing significant growth. This implies a structured yet agile operational framework.

Founded: Vuori was founded with a vision to re-define athletic apparel, blending performance with casual aesthetics. This foundation suggests a culture that values innovation, quality, and a holistic approach to active living.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a Development team, reporting to a Sr. Design Manager or the VP of Development.
• This team will work closely with cross-functional departments such as Real Estate, Construction, Visual Merchandising, Marketing, and Operations, indicating a highly collaborative and integrated structure.
• The team structure supports a project-based workflow, with clear roles and responsibilities for each phase of store development.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While creative, design decisions are informed by market trends, brand strategy, and operational efficiency.
• Agile Project Management: The fast-paced retail environment necessitates agile approaches to project planning, execution, and adaptation.
• Collaborative Development: A strong emphasis is placed on cross-functional teamwork to ensure all aspects of store design are considered and integrated.

Company Website: vuoriclothing.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Vuori's positioning as a lifestyle brand in the athletic apparel sector suggests a company culture that balances a strong work ethic with an appreciation for an active, creative, and coastal-inspired lifestyle. The retail design function is central to bringing this brand experience to life physically.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-to-senior level management position within the Retail Operations/Development function. It requires significant independent decision-making, project ownership, and the ability to manage external resources and internal stakeholders. The scope extends to influencing the physical brand experience across multiple locations.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager typically reports to a Senior Design Manager or the VP of Development. They will have direct oversight of external design consultants and will collaborate closely with peers in Construction, Merchandising, and Operations.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly impacts the customer's physical brand experience, influencing perception, engagement, and ultimately, sales. Well-designed stores enhance brand equity, drive foot traffic, and facilitate efficient operational workflows for store staff. This role is crucial for scaling the retail footprint effectively and ensuring brand consistency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Manager/Director of Retail Design: Advancement to a more senior role with broader strategic responsibility, managing a larger team and a more extensive pipeline of projects, potentially including international market expansion.
• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas such as sustainable retail design, experiential retail, or prototype development.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Potential to move into related leadership roles within Merchandising, Store Operations, or Brand Experience based on demonstrated success and aptitude.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within retail design and development, with opportunities to take on increasing strategic responsibility and leadership within a rapidly growing brand.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an office environment, likely a corporate headquarters or regional office, supporting the development and execution of retail store designs. This setting is typical for roles involving project management, design collaboration, and administrative tasks.

Office Location(s): The primary listed location is New York, New York. However, the role's responsibilities for national and international store development suggest potential for travel to project sites, vendor locations, and other Vuori offices.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office will likely feature collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms equipped for design reviews (with screens for renderings, whiteboards for ideation), and access to necessary design software and hardware.
• Tools & Technology: Employees will have access to industry-standard design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, SketchUp) and project management tools.
• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with internal teams (Construction, Merchandising, Marketing) and external consultants is expected, fostering a dynamic and communicative work atmosphere.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility for extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases, such as design reviews, construction site visits, or to accommodate global project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The New York location is a significant hub for retail and design, offering access to a vibrant ecosystem of talent, suppliers, and industry events. The on-site requirement emphasizes the need for in-person collaboration and direct oversight of design processes.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and resumes, looking for alignment with core qualifications and experience.
• Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: Candidates will be asked to present their portfolio, focusing on specific projects that highlight their design process, problem-solving skills, and project management capabilities. This may be a dedicated session where they walk through key deliverables and decision-making.
• Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from Construction, Visual Merchandising, Marketing, and Operations will assess collaboration style, understanding of operational constraints, and ability to integrate design with broader business objectives.
• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Questions will probe problem-solving approaches, leadership style, ability to manage pressure, and cultural fit within Vuori's fast-paced environment.
• Final Interview: A meeting with senior leadership (e.g., VP of Development) to discuss strategic alignment, long-term vision, and final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your experience relevant to retail store design, covering new builds, remodels, and pop-ups.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the brief, your role, the design process, key challenges, your solutions, and the final outcome (including any measurable impact if available).
• Highlight Process: Emphasize your workflow, from concept development and test fits to detailed drawings and construction administration. Showcase your sketching and detailing abilities.
• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Clearly indicate the software used and be prepared to discuss your proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, Sketchup, BlueBeam, and any 3D modeling tools.
• Quantify Achievements: If possible, include metrics related to budget adherence, schedule management, or any positive impact on store performance or customer experience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design exercise or case study that might involve a quick test fit, concept ideation for a specific retail scenario, or a problem-solving scenario related to construction or operational challenges in a retail space.
• Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely, especially when under time constraints.
• Think about how your design solutions would align with brand standards, operational efficiency, and budget considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize the candidate's portfolio and their ability to articulate their design process and project management skills. The emphasis on cross-functional collaboration means candidates should be ready to discuss how they work with diverse teams to achieve unified results.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD & 3D Modeling: AutoCAD (essential), Sketchup (essential), Revit (preferred), Enscape (preferred), 3D Max (preferred). These are critical for creating floor plans, elevations, 3D renderings, and detailed construction documents.
• Visualization & Presentation: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign (essential for creating presentation materials, mood boards, and mock-ups).
• Collaboration & Documentation: BlueBeam (essential for plan review, markups, and collaboration on architectural documents).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly an analytics role, understanding how to interpret store performance data (sales per square foot, foot traffic) can inform design decisions. Familiarity with basic reporting tools or the ability to collaborate with teams who use them is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role, but understanding how store design can impact operational workflows and customer journey management within a CRM context can be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign), Sketchup, and BlueBeam is a non-negotiable requirement for this role. Experience with 3D rendering and modeling software like Revit, Enscape, or 3D Max is highly desirable and will set candidates apart.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Brand Integrity: A deep commitment to upholding and enhancing Vuori's brand identity and aesthetic across all physical touchpoints.
• Efficiency & Scalability: Designing solutions that are not only visually appealing but also operationally efficient and scalable for multiple store locations.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented approach, valuing input from all departments to achieve cohesive project outcomes.
• Innovation: Continuously seeking out new trends, materials, and technologies to elevate the retail experience.
• Accountability: Taking ownership of projects, budgets, and timelines, ensuring successful and timely delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Partnership: Actively working with Real Estate, Construction, Visual Merchandising, Marketing, and Operations to ensure a holistic approach to store development.
• Consultant Management: Effectively leading and guiding external design consultants to achieve project goals while maintaining brand standards.
• Feedback Integration: Open to receiving and integrating feedback from various stakeholders to refine designs and ensure practicality.
• Proactive Communication: Maintaining transparent and consistent communication with all parties involved in a project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vuori's culture likely emphasizes a blend of performance, creativity, and a passion for an active lifestyle. For this role, a collaborative spirit and a strong ability to translate brand vision into tangible, functional retail spaces are paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Operational Constraints: Ensuring innovative and on-brand designs are also feasible within budget, timeline, and operational requirements.
• Managing Multiple Projects Simultaneously: Juggling numerous store development projects across different stages of completion, often in various geographic locations.
• Navigating Regulatory Requirements: Ensuring all designs comply with local building codes, zoning laws, and permit requirements across diverse jurisdictions.
• Adapting to Evolving Retail Trends: Staying ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing retail landscape, incorporating new technologies and customer experience strategies into store designs.
• International Design Adaptation: Understanding and adapting designs for different cultural contexts, market specificities, and international construction standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Global Retail Expansion: Gaining experience in designing and implementing retail strategies for international markets.
• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen proficiency or learn new visualization and modeling tools.
• Sustainable Design Practices: Potential to lead initiatives in incorporating sustainable materials and practices into store design.
• Leadership Mentorship: Guidance from senior leaders within the Development and Operations teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges related to project management, cross-functional coordination, and creative problem-solving within a dynamic retail environment. The growth opportunities are substantial for individuals looking to lead retail design initiatives for a growing global brand.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a retail store concept from initial brief to final construction documents. What are the key decision points?" (Focus on your structured approach, creativity, and collaboration.)
• "How do you ensure that a retail design not only looks good but also functions efficiently for store staff and customers? Provide an example." (Highlight your understanding of operational needs and customer experience.)
• "Walk me through a challenging project where you had to balance conflicting stakeholder requirements or significant budget/schedule constraints. How did you resolve it?" (Demonstrate problem-solving, negotiation, and communication skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Vuori's brand and its approach to retail?" (Research Vuori's brand story, values, and recent retail initiatives.)
• "How do you envision your design contributing to Vuori's unique brand experience in a physical retail setting?" (Connect your design philosophy to Vuori's lifestyle and product offerings.)
• "Describe your ideal collaborative environment when working with construction, marketing, and operations teams." (Emphasize your partnership approach and communication style.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or chronologically. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the process, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.
• Visuals: Use high-quality renderings, plans, and photos. Ensure clarity and legibility of technical drawings.
• Narrative: Practice telling a compelling story for each project, focusing on your problem-solving and decision-making. Be ready to discuss the "why" behind your design choices.
• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss your software proficiency and how you use specific tools to achieve design goals.
• Q&A: Anticipate questions about budget, schedule, materials, and how your designs align with brand strategy and operational feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to not only showcase their design aesthetic but also their project management rigor, technical skills, and ability to collaborate effectively within a business context. Understanding Vuori's brand is crucial for demonstrating cultural fit.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager, Retail position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience in retail store design, specifically mentioning new store openings, remodels, and your proficiency with industry-standard design software (AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, Sketchup, BlueBeam).
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your years of experience, educational background (Architecture/Interior Design preferred), and specific achievements in project management, budget control, and construction administration. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and project management methodologies. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio that demonstrate your ability to translate brand vision into functional retail spaces and manage complex projects from conception to completion.
• Company Research: Deeply research Vuori’s brand, mission, values, and current retail presence. Understand their target market and how their physical stores embody their lifestyle ethos.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.