Store Planning Specialist

Hey, we're Ardene!

We're the ultimate destination in North America and beyond for head-to-toe apparel, footwear, and accessories - all at the best prices. In 1982, we started as an accessories and jewelry retailer. Today, we're on a whole new level, with 250+ stores in Canada, the USA and internationally – not to mention ardene.com and our app!

We believe that fashion shouldn’t be exclusive or intimidating – it should be celebrated with youthful confidence and fearless enthusiasm. Our journey is ongoing in this new era of retail, as we focus more than ever before on customer experience and sustainable practices.

We also take employee wellbeing and personal growth to heart. Our teams focus on driving initiatives in the area of mental health, diversity & inclusion, engagement and recognition. This includes our many mindfulness programs too, so our teams can create meaningful connections, lead with intention and kindness, and be their best selves at work and in their lives.

Want to learn more about Life at Ardene? Check out our careers site for the latest updates & read one-on-one personal interviews with team members from across Ardene.

https://ardenecorporate.com/life-at-ardene

WHO YOU ARE:

The Store Planning Specialist’s main responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Design coordination:

• Assist with coordination for Design and Development of Ardene concept.
• Draft store plans, merchandising layouts, and other design-related documents for Ardene.
• Support and conduct meetings with the Visual/Merchandising and Marketing departments for store planning.
• Ensure that execution is representative of the quality design and brand image of Ardene.

Project coordination:

• Support the store opening process.
• Conduct site surveys and visits.
• Foster and maintain strong relationships and communications with consultants and vendors.
• Coordinate the production of architectural and engineering drawings for stores, ensuring accuracy and alignment with design criteria.
• Draft full architectural drawings in-house, as required.
• Submit architectural drawings for permit and landlord approval.
• Complete full review and revisions of construction drawings.
• Coordinate drawing distribution, filing, printing, etc.
• Coordinate site information and landlord contact information.
• Collaborate with the Leasing department on signage agreements, developing and presenting renderings for potential signage opportunities.
• Coordinate construction weekly updates, progress photos, and general contractor and vendor inquiries.
• Provide deficiency lists and coordinate the execution of all deficiencies.
• Compile all documents required by the architect and engineer for sign-off letters.
• Assist/Coordinate Design planning and scheduling.
• Distribute Start-Up, Landlord Information, and existing store drawings to professionals and work teams.
• Coordinate finish samples and clarify construction standards to international licensees.
• Coordinate construction tenders and support the review of vendor bids, as required.
• Order construction materials directly from vendors, as required.
• Coordinate with Logistics and Warehouse on OSM shipments to stores, as required.
• Review and approve millwork shop drawings.
• Process purchase orders and required invoices.
• Clerical duties: file management, data entry, copying, and scanning documents as required.
• Assist Store Maintenance and Facilities as required.
• Any other tasks and projects as needed. 

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• Education in architectural technology, interior design, or related field 
• Minimum of 3-5 year of design and construction experience in commercial retail/hospitality 
• Strong knowledge in the production and coordination of architectural/technical drawing packages, and highly proficient in drawing reviews to ensure accuracy, constructability, and compliance.
• Strong knowledge of architectural drawings, store design, construction and renovation processes, fixturing processes, building systems & codes, and other authorities with jurisdiction.
• High levels of creativity and aesthetic sense 
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, MS Office and G-Suite; Revit an asset.
• Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.
• 3D modeling and renderings (SketchUp required).
• Exceptional organizational skills, comfortable with multi-tasking in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills, and ability to problem-solve. 
• Fluent in French and English (spoken and written).
• Driver’s license and access to a vehicle considered an asset.  
• Travel as required.  

GROW WITH US!

We’re pretty proud to say that everything we do starts with our people – whether it’s in-store or at the head office. From sales associates and store leadership; dedicated in-house apparel and design teams; marketing, brand, and digital experts; stylists, photographers, and graphic designers; all the way to store concept and operations. We do it all. Ardene is truly a creative hub that is second to none.

Be part of a fun, dynamic and energetic team! Join our team and begin your career at one of North America’s top retail chains!