Sephora Retail Operations and Maintenance Manager

About Sephora

Sephora is a global prestige beauty leader, renowned for redefining the retail experience through creativity, inclusivity, and expert service. Founded in France and now part of LVMH, the company brings together an exceptional portfolio of beauty brands with a distinctive culture of discovery and innovation. As an employer, Sephora offers a dynamic, customer-centered environment where talent is encouraged to learn, experiment, and grow across retail, digital, merchandising, operations, and corporate functions. Its teams are united by a passion for beauty, entrepreneurship, and belonging, making Sephora a compelling workplace for professionals seeking impact within a fast-moving international brand.

Role & Responsibilities

• Manage Sephora DENS CAPEX projects, including new store openings, relocations, renovations and other brick-and-mortar initiatives.
• Support the evaluation and negotiation of potential store locations through detailed site assessments, reviewing technical feasibility and timelines with the Retail Director.
• Oversee the full project lifecycle, from design and construction through installation and final handover.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, timelines and budgets; identify and mitigate risks to delivery, costs and resources.
• Conduct regular site visits to monitor project delivery, store operations and maintenance needs.
• Coordinate Offer, Supply Chain and Logistics teams to ensure products and supplies are available on time.
• Organize store implementation with Retail teams and HQ support, and contribute to other retail projects.
• Manage Sephora DENS OPEX projects and other store expenses, maintaining high operational and maintenance standards.
• Lead tender processes for construction, maintenance, security and cleaning services.
• Define scopes of work, evaluate proposals and coordinate contracts with Procurement.
• Monitor supplier performance through KPIs, audits and regular reviews; identify cost efficiencies while maintaining quality and compliance.
• Act as the key contact for projects, maintenance and retail operations within the DENS Retail Operations Team, reporting to the Retail Director.
• Coordinate communication with architects, general contractors, property owners, landlords, relevant authorities and internal stakeholders.
• Partner with Retail, Merchandising, IT, Security, Finance, Offer, Supply Chain and Trade teams to support effective project delivery and efficient store operations.
• Build strong working relationships with DENS CODIR and the Sephora Europe team in Paris.
• Deliver new store openings, relocations, remodeling and refurbishment projects on time, within budget and to a high standard of execution.
• Create an excellent customer experience in stores and corners.
• Maintain effective budget control and resource allocation.
• Maintain high standards of store maintenance and operations in line with agreed KPIs.

Qualifications

• Strong prioritization, self-management and organizational skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously.
• Sound judgment in budget management and resource allocation.
• An analytical mindset and a practical, solutions-oriented approach to problem-solving.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills across departments and with external partners.
• Enthusiasm for beauty, retail and innovation.
• Strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• At least 3 years of experience in retail expansion, retail operations, real estate development, project management, architecture or an equivalent field.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex projects involving multiple stakeholders.
• Strong experience in budget planning, management and reporting.
• Ability to manage multiple projects across different countries.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to coordinate diverse, cross-functional teams.
• Willingness to travel within the DENS hub.
• Proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel.
• Fluency in English and German.

Skills

Experience

At least 3 years in retail expansion, retail operations, real estate development, project management, architecture or an equivalent field.

Culture

Sephora fosters a dynamic, inclusive workplace where creativity, curiosity, and a passion for beauty are encouraged at every level. As an employer, it is distinguished by its focus on empowerment, continuous learning, and a collaborative retail culture that celebrates individuality and client-centric innovation.

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.