Store Design & Construction Specialist

Who We Are:

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

POSITION SUMMARY

New Balance Korea is seeking a Store Design & Construction Specialist who will manage the full lifecycle of retail store projects, including new store openings, refreshes, relocations, and other retail initiatives, from design development through store opening. This role plays a key part in ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with New Balance global brand standards, while collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to support the growth of the retail network.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Retail Design Standards & Guidelines

• Manage the localization and implementation of New Balance Global Retail Design Guidelines for the Korean market.
• Partner with the Store Design & Construction Manager to develop retail design standards, materials libraries, fixture specifications, and design guidelines across different retail formats, including flagship, brand center, inline stores, and shop-in-shop environments.
• Ensure consistency and quality of retail environments while maintaining alignment with global brand standards.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of annual store opening roadmaps and retail development plans.
• Evaluate and apply new retail design solutions, materials, and industry best practices.

2. Store Design & Construction Projects

• Manage store design and construction projects from design development through store opening.
• Planning store project budget (CAPEX) yearly basis and manage it through monthly meeting
• Develop project schedules with key milestones and coordinate project activities to ensure timely execution.
• Manage local construction partners, external vendors, and consultants throughout the project lifecycle.
• Partner with Retail and Partner Management teams on site feasibility reviews, concept planning, and space layout optimization.
• Ensure projects are delivered in accordance with approved design standards, budgets, timelines, and quality expectations.
• Conduct regular project meetings with stakeholders and business partners to monitor progress and address project-related issues.
• Travel as required to project sites, stakeholder meetings, and vendor locations.

3. Project Management & Execution

• Monitor project timelines, budgets, and deliverables while proactively identifying risks and recommending solutions.
• Manage the project tender processes and vendor selection activities in accordance with company guidelines.
• Oversee contract administration and project documentation in partnership with Legal, Finance, and relevant stakeholders.
• Manage purchase order processes, supplier coordination, invoice follow-up, and payment tracking to ensure smooth project execution.
• Monitor construction progress and vendor performance to ensure project requirements and quality standards are achieved.
• Ensure compliance with internal processes, local regulations, and safety requirements where applicable.

4. Cross-functional Stakeholder Management

• Conduct project meetings with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment on project objectives, timelines, and deliverables.
• Partner closely with Retail Operations, Partner Management, Business Planning, Visual Merchandising, and In-store Marketing teams.
• Maintain regular communication with APAC and Global Store Design teams to obtain required approvals and provide project updates.
• Facilitate effective decision-making and issue resolution through proactive stakeholder engagement.

5. Store Lifecycle Management

• Manage store opening readiness activities, including final inspections, punch list completion, and issue resolution.
• Coordinate post-opening follow-up activities to ensure stores operate in accordance with brand and operational standards.
• Establish and maintain store maintenance processes and vendor networks for ongoing store operations.
• Identify opportunities to improve store development and maintenance processes across the retail lifecycle.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance project execution efficiency and operational effectiveness.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or above
• 6-9 years of store design & construction experience
• Experience with global fashion or sports brand preferred
• Language: Business level of English, Native Korean
• Skills: CAD, Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator, Microsoft Excel & PowerPoint
• Well communication Skills, Mind to share information and ability to value teamwork are required

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Location: Seoul Anguk, Korea / Department: Commercial / Reports to: Store Design & Construction Manager

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Equal Opportunity Employer:

New Balance is committed to equality of opportunity for all current and prospective associates regardless of age, disability, race, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership and gender reassignment.  We are an equal opportunity employer and support a culture of diversity and inclusion.

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