Director, Space Planning

F. Schumacher & Co.•New York, NY

1d•$130,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

Schumacher is seeking a dynamic Director of Space Planning + FF&E to lead the design, construction, and execution of new showroom and office renovation projects across all regions. Partnering closely with the New Locations/Real Estate and Visual Merchandising teams, this role drives visual strategy, expansion planning, renovations, and cosmetic upgrades. The Director oversees internal project managers as well as external partners, vendors, and contractors, ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and in alignment with brand standards. This role is responsible for evaluating and improving processes to increase efficiencies and standards while optimizing costs and preserving design and style intent.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Construction Management, or a related field.
7+ years of experience in store planning or interior design, with luxury retail experience preferred.
Proven experience supporting multi-location rollouts.
Demonstrated ability to manage 4+ concurrent projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Suite required.
Strong ability to review, interpret, and coordinate responses to architectural, MEP, and millwork shop drawings.
Proven expertise in developing, managing, and tracking budgets across multiple projects simultaneously.
In-depth knowledge of furniture, finishes, lighting, and materials specific to retail environments.
Strong spatial planning skills and a highly developed visual sensibility.
Exceptional organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail.
Excellent communication, leadership, project management, and problem-solving abilities.
Willingness and ability to travel for site assessments, installations, and store openings.

Nice To Haves

luxury retail experience preferred

Responsibilities

Lead space planning and design development for all new location and renovation projects.
Oversee design schemes and the FF&E team for all new location and renovation projects, manage FF&E selections, and coordinate with the FF&E Project Manager to ensure timely procurement and execution, making re-selections as needed to meet lead times and budget requirements.
Partner with the New Locations team to identify design requirements and define market-specific strategies by physical location and room.
Facilitate internal floor plan and design review meetings to secure final stakeholder approvals.
Lead a team of Construction and FF&E Project Managers to deliver projects on time and within approved budgets.
Drive cross-functional collaboration with Visual Merchandising to ensure all special display requirements are met, including display types, product categories, brand moments, and vignettes.
Coordinate site surveys with Project Managers and the New Locations team to assess existing conditions, review MEP inspections, and ensure compliance with all codes and requirements.
Review lease documents and provide guidance on tenant responsibilities, landlord work, and deliverables to ensure spaces are turned over in acceptable condition.
Prepare detailed build estimates considering site-specific conditions and requirements to ensure alignment with budget and brand standards.
Develop and maintain comprehensive project cost summaries through completion to support investment analysis and future planning.
Partner with the New Locations team to develop and execute site-specific signage and landscaping plans, coordinating with the Art Department, Project Managers, and local vendors.
Review and comment on architectural and MEP drawings for permit submissions and bid coordination.
Lead contractor selection by managing bid processes, reviewing comparisons, awarding general contractors, and initiating contracts.
Partner with Project Managers to identify cost-saving opportunities and value-engineering solutions without compromising design intent.
Review millwork shop drawings with Project Manager and provide final approval for production.
Collaborate cross-functionally with Visual Merchandising, Marketing, Tech Ops, Product and individual brand teams throughout the project lifecycle.
Closely track construction and FF&E budgets with Project Managers to ensure the project remains on target.
Communicate timelines, milestones, and risks through regular updates to the project team, proactively flagging issues before they impact delivery.
Ensure all projects are fully closed out within 90 days of opening, including receipt of lien waivers, warranties, and complete close-out documentation.
Travel as required for initial site assessments and to lead teams during new location installations and openings.