Store Design & Construction Manager

Description

Job Title: Store Design & Construction Manager

UNIQLO is a leading brand of the Fast Retailing Group, one of the largest apparel retailers in the world. UNIQLO respects the individuality and lifestyle of all customers and takes pride in creating high quality, long-lasting, innovative clothing at an affordable price.

Position Overview:

The Store Design & Construction Manager is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of UNIQLO’s new store development projects – from early feasibility assessment through final handover to store operations. This role oversees design coordination, construction execution, budget and schedule management, and cross-functional collaboration with internal teams, landlords, and external partners to ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to UNIQLO’s quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage design development and construction execution through all project phases.
• Oversee project budgets, schedules, and landlord handover conditions in close collaboration with the Real Estate team.
• Apply and uphold UNIQLO store layout standards, design criteria, and operational requirements.
• Support the Legal team during lease setup by ensuring construction criteria and technical requirements are clearly defined.
• Evaluate proposals and select general contractors and architects based on scope, cost, timeline, and qualifications.
• Review and approve detailed construction plans, schedules, permitting processes, and deliverables from general contractors.
• Ensure architectural and construction documents meet all UNIQLO operational, design, and quality requirements.
• Coordinate the timely delivery of all owner-furnished items in partnership with relevant internal stakeholders.
• Proactively identify and escalate risks related to cost, quality, or schedule to prevent overruns.
• Lead site visits and walkthroughs throughout the project lifestyle, from initial costing through final handover.
• Collaborate closely with local architects and contractors to resolve on-site issues efficiently.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable local building codes, safety regulations, and jurisdictional requirements.
• Conduct final inspections with the general contractor to confirm readiness for store opening, including quality, code compliance, and maintenance standards.
• Lead post-projects reviews, analyzing budget and schedule variances, identifying root causes, and implementing process improvements.
• Own accountability for project outcomes, including clear documentation and explanation of variances.
• Approve and process invoices in a timely manner in coordination with the Store Development Management Control team.
• Perform other duties as reasonably assigned.

What You Bring:

• Minimum 10 years of experience in retail construction, store development, architecture within Canada.
• Strong knowledge of architectural, engineering, and construction standards.
• Proven project management experience in construction and design environments.
• Formal project management training required; architectural or PM certification preferred.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, or similar design software is an asset.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously across varying levels of complexity.
• Experience working in multicultural and cross-functional environments.
• Understanding of UNIQLO’s brand positioning and customer expectations.
• Strong aesthetic sensibility with a high level of attention to detail and quality.
• Knowledge of flagship and standard retail store requirements.
• Familiarity with the Canadian retail or construction market is an asset.
• Results-driven mindset with strong ownership and accountability.
• Solid business judgment and financial acumen.
• Positive, high-energy, and collaborative working style.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Comfortable building processes from the ground up and taking initiative in fast-paced, lean team environments.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary, performance bonus, and comprehensive benefits.
• A high-visibility role with collaboration across global and regional executive teams.
• Career growth in a company that values ambition, innovation, integrity, and performance.
• A results-driven, entrepreneurial culture where your decisions drive real business impact.
• Work in a modern office which is easily accessible by public transportation.

Please note: All job postings at UNIQLO Canada Inc. are to fill existing vacancies within our organization.

Annual Salary: $138,000 CAD.

The annual salary is based on several factors, including, but not limited to, overall experience, relevant experience, education level, certifications, applicable skills and expertise, and location of the position.

AI Usage:

As part of our recruitment process, we may use technology-assisted tools, including automated systems, to support the review and assessment of applications. These tools do not make the final decisions. All decisions related to screening, interviewing and selection are made by our Talent Acquisition and hiring teams.

UNIQLO Canada is an equal opportunity employer. UNIQLO Canada encourages applications from all qualified candidates and accommodates person with disabilities. Candidates that are selected for interviews should advise us if they require accommodation.