The Retail Architect role offers the opportunity to shape and deliver exceptional retail environments for a prestigious luxury fashion brand. This position plays a key role in translating brand vision into high-quality retail spaces, overseeing projects from concept through construction while ensuring compliance, operational excellence, and consistency with global brand standards. It is ideal for an experienced architect who combines strong technical expertise with creative design thinking and project leadership.
Responsibilities
1) Project Ownership & Strategic Planning
Manage retail design projects from initial brief through completion of construction.
Prepare comprehensive project briefs for the Central team and oversee execution.
Develop strategic and holistic implementation plans.
Understand each project from technical, regulatory, and operational perspectives.
2) Design Development
Collaborate with the Central team by providing clear project briefs, including site regulations and landlord requirements.
Adjust design proposals through Central to meet client and site-specific needs.
Prepare drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
3) Stakeholder Communication & Leadership
Meet with sales teams, stores, and landlords to identify needs and requirements.
Present design projects to the Division Director, General Manager, and sales teams.
Report project progress, risks, and challenges to the Division Director.
Lead all preparations for VIP visits.
4) Execution & Supplier Management
Manage suppliers and collaborate with construction professionals throughout the project lifecycle.
Oversee and control repair works requested by POS nationwide.
Manage and order materials and furniture from overseas manufacturers.
Resolve technical issues and provide optimal solutions.
5) Budgeting & Cost Control
Understand CAPEX budgets and strictly manage and control costs.
Launch bidding processes through the Purchasing division.
Establish and adhere to project budgets and timelines.
6) Compliance & Standards
Ensure compliance with safety standards and local planning regulations.
Possess a solid understanding of Japan’s Building Standard Law, including fire regulations.
Implement new technologies and methodologies to enhance project efficiency and quality.
Requirements
Education & Experience
Degree in Architecture or a related field.
Minimum 5 years of relevant experience as an architect, preferably within a luxury brand or high-end retail environment.
Technical Skills
Excellent technical drawing skills; proficiency in AutoCAD is essential.
Strong knowledge of building codes, regulatory standards, and Japan’s Building Standard Law, including fire regulations.
Ability to prepare architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
Strong creative, spatial, and visualisation skills.
Ability to conduct quality checks at production factories.
Project & Communication Skills
Strong communication and project management capabilities.
Ability to build trusted relationships with international and local stakeholders while adhering to brand guidelines.
Strong interpersonal and presentation skills.
Exceptional analytical, organisational, and time-management skills.
Ability to identify and leverage the strengths and skills of project team members.
Calm, optimistic, and perceptive problem-solver.
Language Skills
Native-level Japanese.
Advanced English, with the ability to conduct technical discussions and deliver clear, persuasive presentations to international and internal stakeholders through email, online meetings, and in-person interactions.
Work Style & Conditions
Willingness to travel frequently across Japan, including overnight trips.
Ability to work early mornings or late nights when supervising on-site construction outside store business hours.
PC Skills
Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, and related software.
Strong 3D design capability.
Benefits
Medical and insurance coverage provided.
Employee company sales discount.
About the Company
A company in the luxury fashion and lifestyle industry, this organisation develops a broad range of premium creations including fashion, leather goods, bags, fine jewellery, and watches. With a long heritage of craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation, the company continues to evolve while maintaining the highest standards of design excellence and brand experience.