Chanel Senior Design Manager

About Chanel

Chanel is one of the world’s most revered luxury houses, founded by Gabrielle Chanel and distinguished by an enduring vision of elegance, freedom, and modernity. As an employer, the House brings together métiers ranging from haute couture, fashion and leather goods to fragrance, beauty, watches, and fine jewelry, offering employees the opportunity to contribute to a legacy defined by exceptional craftsmanship and creative audacity. Chanel values excellence, discretion, collaboration, and long-term development, fostering an environment where talent is nurtured and heritage is continually reinterpreted for contemporary clients. Its teams are united by a commitment to quality, innovation, and the timeless spirit of the brand.

Role & Responsibilities

• Oversee project management and execution for all new and renovation projects across Fragrance and Beauty, Fashion, Watches and Fine Jewelry, and Corporate divisions throughout all phases
• Adapt drawings and concept renderings from the UK regional Store Planning team for local market requirements
• Design and coordinate all back-of-house stockrooms and operational spaces to meet functional needs
• Hire and collaborate with local professionals to prepare comprehensive working drawing packages for permits, tender processes, and construction
• Engage cross-functional teams to understand operational requirements and integrate them into design specifications
• Prepare planning, budgeting, and forecasting for assigned projects; review with Head of Store Planning, CFO, and President
• Deliver monthly project reports to Head of Store Planning on all active initiatives
• Conduct site visits and liaise with CHANEL's Repair and Maintenance Manager to ensure brand image standards across the Canadian portfolio
• Obtain necessary approvals for proposed designs and maintain highest standards in detailing, specification, and project management
• Manage Project Critical Path documentation to ensure designs remain on schedule and within budget
• Oversee design implementation for audio-visual, security, information technology, lighting, and loss prevention systems
• Negotiate favorable outcomes with landlord tenant coordination teams and ensure handover conditions meet brand standards
• Select and award general contractors, suppliers, and consultant teams
• Lead construction site walk-throughs with internal and external team members
• Identify discrepancies between approved drawings and site conditions, developing solutions that maintain timeline and budget integrity
• Issue status reports to regional and local teams during construction
• Inspect quality of all finishes, furniture, materials, and products upon arrival; coordinate replacements as required
• Manage shop fitter selection and oversee timely, high-quality installation of all CHANEL millwork
• Review and approve shop drawings prior to installation
• Ensure timely delivery of installation components and distribution of relevant drawings to Merchandising and Display teams
• Collaborate with CFO to ensure all design work remains within agreed budgets
• Manage incoming and outgoing invoices and project-related payments in conjunction with finance teams
• Create and issue purchase orders using COUPA; track invoices and coordinate payments
• Manage directly procured product shipments from suppliers, including customs clearance and delivery logistics
• Negotiate supplier quotes to ensure best value and quality; verify insurance and warranties
• Adhere to CHANEL's procurement, green, and sustainability policies
• Support legal and leasing teams with lease documentation related to store design and construction
• Travel within Canada as required (approximately 30% of role)

Qualifications

• Minimum 10+ years of retail store design experience on client or agency side
• Degree in Interior Design or Architecture, or equivalent experience on luxury retail projects for minimum 10 years
• Strong comprehension of architectural and engineering drawings (required)
• Confidence and practical understanding of construction site management (required)
• PMP designation or LEED accreditation (asset)
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and SketchUp (mandatory)
• Experience with Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, and Excel (asset)
• Experience with COUPA procurement platform (asset)

Skills

Experience

Minimum 10+ years of professional experience in retail store design, either on the client or agency side, with demonstrated expertise managing luxury retail projects from concept through construction completion.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or equivalent professional experience demonstrating advanced knowledge in design, construction management, and luxury retail environments.

Workplace

Compensation

The base compensation for this position ranges from CAD 125,000 to CAD 135,000 per annum.

Benefits

Private medical and dental insurance, long-term disability coverage, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, company pension plan, bonus program, generous vacation days, sick leave, CSR volunteering days, birthday day off, parental leave policy, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with 24/7 counseling and wellness services, professional development programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement support.

Culture

Chanel fosters a culture of timeless creativity, exacting craftsmanship, and quiet excellence, where employees are encouraged to uphold the house’s heritage while contributing to its continued innovation. The workplace environment is refined, collaborative, and deeply committed to quality, offering professionals the opportunity to grow within a globally respected maison that values discretion, artistry, and long-term vision.

About Cerulean

Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.