Store Design Manager - WSS

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Store Design Manager - WSS

Company: Foot Locker

Location: Gardena, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Store Design & Development

Date Posted: September 24, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in-office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the creative and technical development of WSS store environments, driving brand identity and customer experience through innovative store design.

• Manage the end-to-end store design process, from initial concept and space planning to detailed construction documentation and fixture coordination.

• Collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams, including Real Estate, Construction, Merchandising, and Operations, to ensure seamless project execution and alignment with business objectives.

• Develop and maintain WSS design standards, fixture libraries, and material palettes to ensure consistency and scalability across a multi-unit retail portfolio.

• Evaluate and integrate new materials, technologies, and design innovations to enhance store performance, operational efficiency, and customer engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for translating the WSS brand vision into tangible, engaging retail spaces. The emphasis on hybrid work and collaboration with diverse teams highlights the need for strong communication and adaptability in a dynamic retail environment. The "value-focused or community-based retail environments" requirement suggests a need for designs that are both aesthetically appealing and economically viable, catering to a specific customer demographic.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the creation and evolution of store design concepts that effectively embody the WSS brand identity and achieve desired customer experience goals.

• Develop comprehensive floor plans, fixture layouts, and interior design elements for new store openings, remodels, and relocation projects.

• Ensure all store designs strategically support merchandising plans, optimize customer traffic flow, and enhance overall operational efficiency.

• Produce and meticulously manage all design documentation, including detailed drawings, specifications, and finish schedules, ensuring accuracy and adherence to standards.

• Actively partner with Construction, Real Estate, Merchandising, and Operations departments to guarantee that the design intent is accurately translated into physical store builds.

• Review architectural plans, engineering drawings, and landlord criteria to ensure strict compliance with all relevant regulations and requirements.

• Conduct regular site visits to verify existing conditions, monitor project progress, and proactively resolve any design-related issues that may arise during construction.

• Collaborate with fixture manufacturers, signage vendors, and material suppliers to develop and implement cost-effective, high-quality solutions.

• Maintain and continuously update the WSS design standards, comprehensive fixture libraries, and approved material palettes to reflect current brand direction and best practices.

• Evaluate and propose new materials, technologies, and innovative design solutions that can improve store performance and elevate the customer experience.

• Partner closely with the Merchandising team to ensure optimal product presentation aligns seamlessly with the approved design intent.

• Provide support to the Real Estate team by conducting site feasibility assessments and creating test fits for potential new store locations.

• Prepare and present compelling design concepts and project updates to various leadership teams, articulating design rationale and project status.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on role that bridges creative vision with practical execution. The need to "ensure designs support merchandising strategies, traffic flow, and operational efficiency" emphasizes a business-oriented approach to design, which is crucial for a retail operations role. The emphasis on cost-effectiveness and vendor coordination points to a need for strong negotiation and budget management skills within the design process.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Industrial Design, or a closely related field is preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in retail store design, with a strong preference for candidates with a background in multi-unit or specialty retail environments.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in developing and evolving store design concepts aligned with brand identity and customer experience objectives.

• Proficiency in creating detailed floor plans, fixture layouts, and interior design elements for various retail projects.

• Strong understanding of construction processes, including building codes, ADA requirements, and general construction documentation.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a demanding, fast-paced retail environment.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively articulate design concepts to diverse stakeholders.

• Proven problem-solving capabilities, with a knack for resolving design challenges efficiently and creatively.

• Strong attention to detail, ensuring high-quality and accurate work products in all design deliverables. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and the Adobe Creative Suite.

• Experience in designing value-focused or community-based retail environments, understanding specific market needs.

• Knowledge of fixture engineering principles and retail merchandising strategies.

• Familiarity with project management software and established workflows for design and construction projects.

• Experience working with fixture manufacturers, signage vendors, and material suppliers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The inclusion of specific design software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite) is a critical technical requirement. The preference for experience in "value-focused or community-based retail environments" and the mention of "WSS brand identity" indicate a need for a candidate who can balance brand aesthetics with practical, cost-effective solutions tailored to a specific customer segment. The requirement for strong communication and presentation skills is paramount for a manager-level role involving leadership and cross-functional collaboration.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Comprehensive examples of retail store design projects, showcasing the full lifecycle from concept ideation to final execution.

• Detailed case studies demonstrating how design solutions addressed specific business objectives, such as enhancing customer flow, improving sales, or strengthening brand presence.

• Visual documentation of floor plans, 3D renderings, and construction drawings for at least 2-3 multi-unit retail projects.

• Evidence of successful collaboration with cross-functional teams (e.g., Merchandising, Construction, Operations) and external vendors in project development.

• Examples of how design standards, fixture libraries, and material palettes were developed, implemented, or maintained. Process Documentation:

• Showcase of workflow for developing store design concepts, including research, mood boards, and initial sketches.

• Documentation of the process for creating construction-ready drawings, specifications, and finish schedules.

• Examples of how design issues were identified and resolved during the construction phase, including site visit documentation.

• Demonstration of the process for coordinating with fixture manufacturers, signage vendors, and material suppliers to ensure cost-effectiveness and timely delivery.

• Evidence of a process for evaluating and integrating new materials, technologies, or design innovations into existing standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating end-to-end project management and creative problem-solving within a retail context is essential. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their design process, highlighting how they balance brand vision with practical, operational, and financial considerations. Demonstrating experience with value-oriented design principles and vendor management will be a key differentiator.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $82,000 - $95,600 per year.

Explanation of Range: This range is based on the provided salary information and reflects the typical compensation for a Store Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the Gardena, California area, considering the retail industry and Foot Locker's compensation structure. The final salary will be determined by individual qualifications, experience, internal equity, and market data.

Benefits:

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Parental Leave, supporting work-life balance.

• Comprehensive insurance coverage including Life, Medical, Dental, and Vision for individuals and families.

• Opportunities for professional growth through Self-Development & Recognition Programs.

• Eligibility for a Bonus Incentive Program, aligning individual and company performance with rewards.

• Clear Advancement Opportunities within Foot Locker, Inc.

• Retirement savings plan with a 401k Retirement Plan and Health Savings Account (HSA) Contributions.

• Significant Employee Discount (30%-50%) and Friend & Family Events, fostering brand loyalty and community.

• Engagement in Community Engagement Opportunities, reflecting company values.

Working Hours: The role is full-time, with an expected 40 hours per week. The hybrid work arrangement requires approximately three days per week in the WSS office, typically Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific and competitive for a Store Design Manager role in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. The benefits package is comprehensive, covering health, wellness, financial planning, and professional development, which are attractive to experienced professionals. The hybrid work schedule is clearly defined, offering a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Foot Locker operates within the highly competitive and dynamic athletic footwear and apparel retail sector. As part of the DICK’S Sporting Goods family, it benefits from broader reach and resources while maintaining its distinct brand edge. WSS, specifically, is positioned as a premier footwear retailer in the U.S., serving neighborhood-based stores with a focus on value and a wide selection of brands for families.

Company Size: Foot Locker, Inc. is a large, publicly traded corporation with a significant global presence. WSS, as a brand within Foot Locker, operates numerous retail locations and likely has a substantial internal team supporting its operations, including design, merchandising, and store management. This large company structure offers stability and extensive career development pathways.

Founded: Foot Locker was founded in 1974. WSS was founded in 1984. The company's long history signifies established retail expertise and a deep understanding of its customer base and market dynamics. This longevity suggests a culture that values tradition, brand loyalty, and continuous adaptation to market trends.

Team Structure:

• The Store Design Manager likely leads a small, specialized team or works closely with external design consultants and agencies.

• Reporting Structure: This role will report to a senior leader within the Retail Operations, Store Development, or Merchandising departments.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role necessitates close collaboration with Real Estate, Construction, Merchandising, Operations, Marketing, and Visual Merchandising teams to ensure cohesive store development and execution. Methodology:

• Data Analysis: Designs are likely informed by sales data, customer demographics, traffic flow analysis, and market research to ensure commercial viability and customer appeal.

• Workflow Planning: A structured approach to design project management, from initial brief to final sign-off, is critical for efficient execution in a multi-unit environment.

• Automation and Efficiency: While not explicitly stated for design, the operational context implies a drive for efficient processes and potentially leveraging technology for design, documentation, and vendor communication.

Company Website: www.footlocker.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of WSS as a "premier footwear retailer in the U.S. doing business in neighborhood-based stores" and its focus on "greatest values and largest selection" is crucial. It implies that store designs must be both aspirational and accessible, balancing brand representation with cost-effectiveness and broad family appeal. The hybrid work model suggests a modern approach to workplace flexibility within a large, established retail organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is a Managerial level role within the Store Design and Development function, crucial for the operational success and brand presentation of WSS stores. It involves leading design initiatives, managing projects, and contributing to strategic store planning. The role requires a blend of creative leadership and practical project management, positioning it as a key contributor to the retail operations infrastructure.

Reporting Structure: The Store Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager of Store Development, Retail Operations, or a similar leadership role. This provides a clear line of reporting and access to senior decision-making processes within the organization.

Operations Impact: The Store Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on the customer experience, brand perception, and operational efficiency of WSS stores. Well-designed stores drive foot traffic, enhance product visibility, facilitate smoother operations for staff, and ultimately contribute to sales performance and brand loyalty. The success of WSS's growth strategy, particularly its expansion through new builds and remodels, is heavily reliant on this role's output.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in retail design, project management, and cross-functional team leadership. Potential to manage larger or more complex projects, including flagship stores or significant remodels.

• Leadership Development: Progression to Senior Store Design Manager, Director of Store Development, or related leadership roles within Foot Locker's broader retail operations or real estate departments.

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific areas such as sustainable store design, customer journey mapping through space, or digital integration within physical retail environments. Exposure to different brands within the Foot Locker portfolio could also be an avenue for growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within a large retail organization. The emphasis on "scalable design system that supports WSS’s growth strategy" indicates that this role is integral to the company's expansion plans. Candidates should look for opportunities to showcase their strategic thinking and ability to influence the long-term vision for WSS store environments.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hybrid role, requiring 3 days per week in the WSS office located in Gardena, California. The office environment likely supports collaborative work, with spaces for team meetings, design reviews, and focused individual work.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is 879 W 190th St, Gardena, CA 90248. This location is situated in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, offering accessibility for local candidates.

Workspace Context:

• The office workspace is expected to foster collaboration, with opportunities to interact with colleagues from various departments, including Merchandising, Construction, and Operations.

• Access to necessary design tools, software licenses, and potentially a library of material samples and fixture prototypes will be available.

• The environment will support presentations and reviews, likely featuring display areas or meeting rooms equipped for visual presentations.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time, 40 hours per week. The hybrid model allows for flexibility, with employees typically expected in the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. This structure is designed to facilitate in-person collaboration while maintaining some degree of remote work flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests a modern workplace culture that balances in-person collaboration with individual flexibility. The Gardena location is strategically situated within a major commercial hub, offering good accessibility. Candidates should be prepared for an environment that requires both independent work and active team engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and resumes, focusing on alignment with experience and skills.

• First Interview (Phone/Video): A discussion about your background, experience, and understanding of retail store design principles. This may include behavioral questions.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A key stage where you will present selected projects from your portfolio. Be prepared to discuss your design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of your designs on business objectives. This will likely involve presenting to the hiring manager and potentially key stakeholders from Merchandising or Operations.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to complete a design exercise or case study, either in real-time or as a take-home assignment, to assess your design skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of WSS brand requirements.

• Final Interview: A meeting with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment, cultural fit, and overall suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest retail design projects that best represent your experience in multi-unit retail, value-focused environments, and end-to-end project management.

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your design process, the solutions you implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., improved sales, customer satisfaction, operational efficiency).

• Showcase WSS Alignment: If possible, include concepts or mock-ups that demonstrate an understanding of the WSS brand and its target customer.

• Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your use of design software and how you translate concepts into construction-ready documentation.

• Collaboration: Emphasize instances where you collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams and vendors.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand WSS: Research WSS's current store designs, target demographic, brand messaging, and competitive landscape.

• Design Thinking: Practice articulating your design process, focusing on user-centricity, brand integration, and operational feasibility.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare for questions related to managing conflicting stakeholder demands, budget constraints, or unexpected site conditions.

• Metrics & ROI: Be ready to discuss how you measure the success of your designs and demonstrate their return on investment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential design challenge highlights the practical, execution-oriented nature of this role. Candidates should prepare to not only showcase their creative talent but also their ability to deliver practical, business-driven design solutions within defined operational and financial parameters. The specific mention of WSS's value proposition and community focus is a key area to address in case studies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/3D Modeling Software: AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp are explicitly mentioned and are critical for creating architectural drawings, 3D models, and visualizations. Proficiency is expected.

• Graphic Design Software: Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is preferred for creating presentations, mood boards, and graphic elements within design documentation.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Microsoft Project, or proprietary systems) is important for tracking project timelines, tasks, and deliverables.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, understanding how to interpret sales data, customer traffic flow, and customer feedback to inform design decisions is key. Familiarity with retail analytics platforms or dashboard reporting tools may be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but understanding how store design impacts CRM data (e.g., customer journey within the store) or how automation might be used in design documentation workflows could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit is non-negotiable for this role, as these are industry-standard tools for architectural and interior design documentation. The preference for SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite indicates a need for a candidate who can create compelling visualizations and presentations to support design concepts. Familiarity with project management software is essential for managing the complex workflows of retail store development.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to explore and implement new design ideas, materials, and technologies that enhance the WSS customer experience and store performance.

• Customer-Centricity: A commitment to understanding the WSS customer and designing spaces that are welcoming, functional, and inspiring for them.

• Efficiency & Value: A focus on creating cost-effective design solutions that maximize return on investment and deliver strong value for the business and its customers.

• Collaboration: A proactive approach to working with diverse teams, valuing input, and building strong partnerships to achieve shared goals.

• Brand Integrity: A dedication to upholding and elevating the WSS brand identity through consistent and high-quality design execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with teams across departments to ensure design intent is understood and executed effectively, from real estate acquisition to store opening.

• Feedback Exchange: An open approach to receiving and providing constructive feedback during design reviews and project meetings, fostering continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share design best practices, insights, and learnings with team members and stakeholders to elevate the overall design capability within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "value-focused" and "community-based" retail environments suggests a culture that is pragmatic, customer-aware, and community-minded. The need for strong cross-functional collaboration is paramount, indicating a workplace that values teamwork and open communication to achieve common objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Vision with Budget Constraints: Developing innovative and engaging store designs while adhering to strict budget limitations and cost-effective solutions, particularly for a value-focused retailer.

• Navigating Multi-Stakeholder Requirements: Managing diverse and sometimes competing needs and priorities from various departments (Merchandising, Operations, Real Estate, Marketing) to ensure designs meet all objectives.

• Maintaining Consistency Across a Large Portfolio: Ensuring design standards are consistently applied across numerous store locations, each with unique site conditions and local nuances, while supporting WSS's growth strategy.

• Adapting to Evolving Retail Trends: Staying ahead of changing consumer behaviors, retail technologies, and design trends to ensure WSS stores remain relevant and appealing in a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Opportunities for advanced training in specific design software, project management methodologies, or sustainable design practices.

• Industry Exposure: Potential to attend retail design conferences, trade shows, and workshops to stay abreast of industry innovations and network with peers.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Development of leadership skills through managing projects and potentially mentoring junior designers or team members. Opportunities to take on more strategic responsibilities within the store development function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for a candidate who is not only creative but also highly adaptable, financially astute, and skilled in stakeholder management. The growth opportunities point to a supportive environment for professional development within the operations and design fields.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a store design concept from initial brief to final construction documents. How do you ensure it aligns with brand identity and operational needs?" (Focus on a structured, iterative approach, stakeholder input, and documentation.)

• "How do you balance creative design aspirations with strict budget constraints and value-focused retail objectives, especially for a brand like WSS?" (Highlight cost-saving strategies, material selection, and ROI justification.)

• "Walk me through a challenging retail design project you managed. What were the obstacles, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Emphasize problem-solving, collaboration, and measurable results.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about WSS as a brand and the opportunity to design stores for this customer base?" (Research WSS's market position, customer demographic, and community focus.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with cross-functional teams like Merchandising, Construction, and Operations to ensure successful project delivery?" (Provide examples of proactive communication, conflict resolution, and shared goal achievement.)

• "How do you measure the success of your store designs beyond aesthetics? What KPIs are important to you?" (Discuss metrics like sales uplift, foot traffic, customer feedback, operational efficiency, and brand perception.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose projects that best showcase your experience in multi-unit retail, value-driven design, and end-to-end project management.

• Storytelling: For each project, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your approach, the solution, and the impact. Use visuals effectively to support your story.

• Quantify Results: Where possible, present data or metrics that demonstrate the positive impact of your design decisions on sales, operations, or customer experience.

• WSS Relevance: Highlight how your skills and experience are directly applicable to WSS's specific market and brand strategy.

• Process Clarity: Clearly articulate your design process, including your use of software and how you translate concepts into actionable plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative flair, technical expertise, and strong business acumen. Candidates need to articulate not just what they designed, but why, and how it contributed to business objectives. Understanding the WSS brand and its specific market positioning will be key to tailoring responses.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Store Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Foot Locker careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight experience directly relevant to retail store design, multi-unit projects, and value-focused environments. Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually compelling, and ready to present key case studies.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly list your proficiency in required design software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite) and quantify your achievements with metrics related to project scope, budget management, and successful store openings or remodels.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving strategies, and collaboration skills. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions and be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Gain a deep understanding of Foot Locker, WSS's brand identity, target customer, and current market position. Familiarize yourself with their store prototypes and any recent design initiatives.

⚠️ 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.