Retail Space Planning & Design Manager

Job Overview

Specialized Recruiting Group – Dubuque is seeking a Retail Space Planning & Design Manager for a well-established and growing organization. This role is ideal for a creative yet analytical leader who thrives on optimizing retail layouts, improving operational flow, and delivering exceptional customer experiences through thoughtful store design and planning.

The Space Planning & Design Manager will lead a small team while working cross-functionally with operations, merchandising, and technology to enhance retail environments and drive business performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain store layouts, fixture plans, and planograms that support sales goals, efficiency, and brand consistency.

• Oversee planning for new store setups, remodels, relocations, and seasonal resets.

• Collaborate with merchandising, construction, and operations to ensure alignment on floor plans and product placement.

• Evaluate and implement design and planning software systems to improve accuracy and speed.

• Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables to ensure on-time, high-quality execution.

• Analyze store performance data to identify space optimization opportunities.

• Maintain design and compliance standards (ADA, safety, and brand).

• Coach and develop team members to improve technical skills and collaboration.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Retail Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• 5+ years of experience in retail design, space planning, or merchandising operations.

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or other space planning software.

• Familiarity with planogram or layout management tools (Blue Yonder, Relex, SmartDraw, etc.).

• Strong project management and leadership skills with a hands-on approach.

• Excellent communication and collaboration across multiple departments.

• Proven ability to balance creativity with data-driven decision-making.

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of retail performance metrics, P&L understanding, and operational workflows.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.

• Experience training and mentoring team members.

• High level of integrity, professionalism, and organization.

This is an opportunity to join a stable, forward-thinking company where your ideas and leadership will directly shape how customers experience each store.