Visual Merchandising Designer

Job Title: Visual Merchandising Designer III

Location-Type: Hybrid-El Segundo, CA 3-4 days/week on-site

Start Date Is: 7/8/2024

Duration: 6-month contract

Compensation Range: $42-$51/hr

Role Overview:

As the Visual Merchandising Designer III, you will be the gatekeeper ensuring all brand standards are consistently expressed across all retail formats in global markets, including self-assisted concepts and full-service store locations. This role demands an expert design innovator and conceptual thinker who can partner closely with internal and external teams to oversee the design and development of all aspects of visual merchandising (VM) and retail design.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

• Act as the Client of the brand standards in all retail formats globally.
• Collaborate with internal and external teams to oversee store/shop layouts, fixture design, merchandising displays, lighting, furniture, materials, and planograms.
• Develop and evolve concepts for management approvals.
• Create and modify layouts and drawings daily using CAD software.
• Utilize 3D software (e.g., SketchUp with VRAY) for design work.
• Review VM, architectural, construction, and fixture/millwork shop drawings with expert proficiency.
• Manage vendor relationships, coordinate day-to-day activities, and gather cost approvals.
• Understand material costs, construction trades, and processes that impact design.
• Partner with the Creative and Marketing teams to implement new selling strategies effectively.
• Stay informed about the competitive retail environment, particularly in the beauty marketplace.
• Apply knowledge of sustainable design methodologies and materials.
• Integrate digital technologies into the retail space.

Must-Haves:

• Bachelor's degree in graphic design, VM, interior design, architecture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of design experience, ideally in retail or hospitality.
• Stellar design aptitude and conceptual thinking.
• Strong project management skills to handle multiple projects with global affiliates and teams.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for working with diverse business partners and cross-functional teams.
• Proficient in creating and modifying layouts using AutoCAD and SketchUp with VRAY.
• Strong working knowledge of fixture and cabinet construction detailing and methods.
• Good understanding of design/industry trends, new concepts, materials, and innovations.
• Creative abilities in sketching, conceptual rendering, and space planning.
• Comprehensive understanding of general building codes, ADA codes, and interior standards.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Teams, Word, Outlook, Excel).
• Expert communication and presentation skills.

Nice to Haves:

• Experience in beauty or luxury VM/retail design.
• Knowledge of sustainable design methodologies and materials.
• Awareness of digital technologies and their integration into the retail space.