What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Director, Store Construction- Corporate Headquarters, NJ position at The Children's Place?
Position Summary:
The Children’s Place is growing, and we are seeking a Senior Director, Store Construction, to oversee all aspects of our new retail store build-outs for The Children’s Place and Gymboree brands. This role requires significant expertise in construction and architecture, with a focus on delivering new store openings on time.
This senior director will report to the GVP, Head of Real Estate, and collaborate with cross-functional teams across the organization. The role is based at our Corporate Headquarters in Secaucus, NJ, and requires travel to current store locations and on-site for construction projects and new store openings nationwide.
Key Responsibilities:
Design and Pre-Construction Phase
- Lead and coordinate the design phase with external consultants/architects and internal stakeholders, focusing on stores of the future.
- Develop preliminary project cost estimates, create and manage project budgets, and facilitate internal approval processes. Own the budget throughout the project lifecycle.
- Solicit proposals for services, negotiate fees, and work with legal on contract preparation. Source and select partners, including general contractors, millworkers, and vendors.
- Collaborate with Stores, Planning, Merchandising, and Creative teams to ensure construction plans align with and represent the brand effectively.
- Partner with Finance to ensure construction costs align with financial objectives. Proactively identify solutions to maintain the budget while achieving desired outcomes.
- Submit architectural plans and specifications to landlords and relevant city or county jurisdictions to secure necessary approvals and permits.
- Solicit, evaluate, and analyze bid proposals, making recommendations for contract awards.
- Monitor the Department of Buildings (DOB) permit application process to ensure timely approval and compliance.
Construction Phase
- Oversee all aspects of construction management, tracking progress against goals, timelines, and budgets.
- Provide regular status updates, report any variances, and develop action plans to keep projects on track.
- Review and assess all plans, drawings, and documents submitted by vendors and internal/external partners, ensuring alignment with budgets and schedules.
- Manage internal requests for change orders, ensuring proper approvals.
- Maintain a network of General Contractors (GCs) and trade professionals, conducting regular check-ins during the construction phase.
- Visit construction sites as needed, including pre-turnover walk-throughs and punch list walk-throughs at turnover.
- Handle other construction-related administrative duties as necessary.
Post-Construction Phase
- Collaborate with Store Operations and Landlords/Mall Management to resolve open punch list items and ensure timely closure.
- Submit all required post-construction documentation to landlords for closure and Tenant Allowance (TA) reimbursement.
Requirements:
Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Architecture required.
- 10 years of experience in architecture and construction, with a strong background in retail-specific design principles.
- Experience working effectively with cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative environment.
Skills and Behaviors
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with proven experience in project management and people management.
- Demonstrated ability to take initiative and organize teams around competing priorities.
- Client-focused with the ability to create alignment and drive results.
