Director, Store Design

Description:

At Gap Inc., our brands are iconic and woven into the fabric of cultures around the globe. We're not just selling clothes; we're shaping experiences and creating connections with our customers through every touchpoint. The Store Design team plays a pivotal role in bringing our brand visions to life in the physical retail space, crafting environments that inspire and engage. We are seeking a visionary and strategic Director, Store Design to lead the development and execution of innovative and brand-aligned store concepts across our portfolio.

As the Director, Store Design, you will be responsible for setting the creative direction and ensuring the consistent application of design principles across all store formats. You will lead a talented team of designers and collaborate closely with cross-functional partners in merchandising, visual merchandising, construction, and marketing to deliver compelling and effective retail spaces that drive brand engagement and customer loyalty. This role demands a strong understanding of retail trends, spatial planning, material selection, and the ability to translate brand strategies into tangible store designs.

What You'll Do:

• Develop and articulate the overarching store design strategy and vision for Gap Inc.'s brands, ensuring alignment with brand identities and business objectives.
• Lead and inspire a team of store designers, providing creative direction, mentorship, and fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
• Oversee the conceptualization, development, and execution of new store formats, renovations, and fixture programs.
• Collaborate closely with merchandising teams to understand product strategies and ensure store designs effectively showcase merchandise and enhance the customer shopping experience.
• Partner with visual merchandising teams to integrate visual storytelling and brand messaging into the store environment.
• Work in conjunction with construction and project management teams to ensure designs are feasible, cost-effective, and executed to the highest standards.
• Manage external design agencies and vendors, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, competitor activities, and evolving customer behaviors to inform design strategies and maintain a competitive edge.
• Present design concepts and strategies to senior leadership and key stakeholders, effectively communicating the rationale and impact of design decisions.
• Establish and maintain design standards and guidelines to ensure brand consistency across all store locations.
• Travel to store locations and industry events as needed to gather insights and oversee design implementation.

Who You Are:

• Extensive experience in retail store design, with a proven track record of leading and delivering successful store concepts for recognized brands.
• A strong portfolio demonstrating innovative and brand-relevant store designs across various formats.
• Exceptional creative vision and a deep understanding of spatial planning, materials, lighting, and visual merchandising principles.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to inspire, mentor, and develop a team of design professionals.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively articulate design concepts and influence stakeholders.
• Strong business acumen and an understanding of the financial implications of design decisions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in relevant design software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• A passion for retail and an understanding of the customer journey.