Senior Retail Designer

Job type Permanent
Salary
Reference 56629
 

Position: Senior Retail Designer

Location: Tokyo, Japan

Company Overview

A globally respected premium outdoor apparel brand, established in North America in the late 1980s, is recognized for its commitment to innovation, technical excellence, and craftsmanship. The company continuously strives to elevate both product performance and brand experience while maintaining strong values around sustainability and responsible growth.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to the evolution of retail environments across the Asia-Pacific region, shaping immersive and premium in-store experiences that reflect the brand’s identity and storytelling.

Role Overview

The Senior Retail Designer will lead the development and execution of retail design projects throughout the APAC region, including key markets such as Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Australia, and New Zealand.

This position is responsible for translating brand narratives and product innovation into impactful retail environments. The role requires close collaboration with Brand, Visual Merchandising, Construction, and Global Design teams to ensure consistency, creativity, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Retail Design Leadership

  • Oversee the design and coordination of interior brand elements to maintain a consistent and compelling retail vision.

  • Deliver design presentations to senior leadership stakeholders.

  • Facilitate cross-functional collaboration for individual store projects.

  • Partner with regional design teams to adapt retail concepts across direct-to-consumer channels.

  • Identify opportunities to enhance store environments and proactively develop creative solutions.

Project and Design Management

  • Manage project timelines and cross-functional communication using project management tools.

  • Conduct and review architectural site assessments to evaluate feasibility, budget alignment, and brand standards.

  • Prepare layouts, material specifications, millwork details, lighting plans, and comprehensive design documentation.

  • Direct architectural drawing production to ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance with regulations.

  • Manage relationships with external architects and consultants throughout permitting and construction phases.

  • Review shop drawings for storefronts, fixtures, signage, and brand installations.

  • Collaborate closely with Construction and Project Management teams during budgeting and build execution.

  • Work with Visual Merchandising teams to finalize store layouts, assortment planning, and space capacity strategies.

Innovation and Future Development

  • Develop new store concepts and next-generation retail experiences.

  • Partner with Visual Merchandising and Brand teams on fixture development and storytelling features.

  • Research innovative materials, finishes, and construction methods.

  • Contribute to long-term retail transformation initiatives and global design standards.

  • Provide mentorship and guidance to junior designers.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related discipline.

  • Minimum of 8 years of experience in international retail design.

  • Proven track record of delivering innovative design projects within timeline and budget constraints.

  • Strong conceptual design, presentation, and storytelling capabilities.

  • Advanced 3D visualization and rendering skills.

  • Proficiency in design and drafting software such as AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, and visualization tools.

  • Solid understanding of materials, sourcing strategies, and construction methodologies.

  • Knowledge of building regulations, safety standards, and accessibility requirements.

  • LEED certification or demonstrated interest in sustainable design practices is preferred.

  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

  • Highly proactive, adaptable, and solution-focused mindset.

Employment Details

  • Employment Type: Full-time

  • Working Hours: Approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes per day with a one-hour break (standard daytime schedule).

  • Flexible work arrangements including remote work options.

  • Competitive compensation package determined by experience and evaluation.

Leave and Time Off

  • Over 120 annual holidays.

  • Paid leave granted upon joining.

  • Seasonal and company-designated holidays.

  • Additional refresh leave, anniversary leave, and special leave programs (including sick and volunteer leave).

Benefits

  • Annual salary review and performance-based bonus.

  • Retirement benefits and defined contribution pension plan funded by the company.

  • Comprehensive social insurance coverage.

  • Transportation allowance.

  • Employee discounts across affiliated brands.

  • Lifestyle discount programs (housing, travel, dining, leisure, wellness).

  • 24-hour health and mental wellness support.

  • Family support programs.

  • Access to extensive online learning programs.