Job Title: Assistant Architecture Project Manager – Japan
Industry: Luxury / Premium Retail
Company Overview
The organization is a global premium retail brand known for its strong design heritage and commitment to creativity, sustainability, and operational excellence. It fosters a collaborative, values-driven environment where innovation, quality, and attention to detail are central to how spaces and customer experiences are created. The company operates an extensive retail network and continues to invest in high-quality physical environments aligned with global brand standards.
Role Purpose
This role supports architectural planning and workplace design initiatives for retail store projects across Japan, working under the direction of a senior project leader. The position serves as a bridge between global design standards and local execution, ensuring that store environments meet brand expectations while achieving operational, schedule, and budget objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Lead site surveys in coordination with external architects to prepare project initiation materials in partnership with regional retail and development stakeholders
Collaborate with design consultants, landlords, and internal teams to translate business requirements and site constraints into complete concept design packages
Create, maintain, and communicate detailed project schedules and documentation to monitor progress against agreed timelines
Take ownership of end-to-end project delivery, including management of general contractors and specialist vendors
Maintain and update the global project planning system in accordance with corporate standards and reporting formats
Manage project budgets throughout the full lifecycle, from initial capital planning through final cost reconciliation
Conduct regular site inspections to ensure compliance with approved designs, timelines, and quality standards at all project stages
Lead bilingual progress meetings and issue formal meeting minutes, action items, and decision records
Support value engineering initiatives and cost optimization strategies
Qualifications & Requirements
6+ years of experience in luxury or premium retail store planning and project delivery
At least 3 years of independent experience managing construction projects in high-end retail environments
Advanced skills in AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, and Adobe Creative Suite
LEED GA or LEED AP certification is an advantage
Strong expertise in architectural drawing coordination and construction schedule development using MS Project, including full lifecycle schedule management
Proven ability to manage multiple stakeholders, including internal teams and external consultants
Demonstrated experience in project budgeting, cost control, and final reconciliation
Fluency in both Japanese and English
Willingness to travel domestically as required to support project execution