Store Planner

The Store Planner leads the design, layout, and project coordination of new store build-outs, relocations, and retrofits across both franchise and corporate locations. This role serves as a key liaison between franchisees, corporate store leadership, vendors, and internal stakeholders to ensure store layouts are functional, compliant, and consistent with brand standards. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Directs workflow with franchise owners, corporate district managers, vendors, and internal teams to lead the planning and execution of new store openings and retrofit projects. Independently interprets and applies policies to develop and manage layouts that optimize product presentation while upholding brand consistency. Serves as a subject matter expert on corporate brand standards and store planning guidelines throughout the design and construction process. Maintains and updates the library of construction drawings, finishes, specifications, construction guidelines, and design notes. Leads initiatives to evaluate enhancements of the store design program, products, and vendors. Conducts feasibility reviews with Real Estate and provides recommendations on site layout, design solutions, and project viability. Order Management and Vendor Coordination Manages ordering processes for fixtures, inventory, and equipment needed for store openings, relocations, and remodels. Supervises the schedule and delivery of store fixtures, inventory, and other required items for store openings. Communicates order timelines, changes, and issues to internal stakeholders and franchisees. Maintains a library of current products, vendors, and supplies for new stores. Researches and value engineers products to ensure cost‑effective new store supplies and products. Utilizes professional discretion to approve exemptions and inclusions in the store construction material. Project and Administrative Management Ensures consistent communication with franchisees to create a positive store planning and development experience. Leads coordination of architectural drawings, fixture plans, and space utilization to maintain brand consistency and operational efficiency. Applies knowledge of general business operations while guiding franchisee planning. Communicates project timelines and milestones with relevant internal and external teams to ensure timely and on‑time deliveries. Exercises independent judgement to determine payment schedules and draws, including funding for SBA or other loans for franchisees, with communication to finance. Designs, implements, and executes project plans and timelines, including tracking of certifications, training, and other items needed for store openings. Administers and maintains the master schedule for commercial openings and brick‑and‑mortar openings by providing strategic project oversight. Effectively communicates with franchisees to ensure project funding, including SBA loans, permitting, architectural drawings, city approvals, signage, and certificate of occupancy. Tracks and manages store design deviations using the store exceptions database. Directs cross‑functional tasks through the preparation and distribution of monthly store planning reports and weekly reporting to senior leadership on project tracking. Identifies and proactively communicates project risks, roadblocks, and recommended solutions. Occasional travel for conferences. Other Duties This job description is intended to outline the general nature and key responsibilities of the role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Duties and responsibilities may evolve or change over time based on business needs, without advance notice. Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree in Design, Business, Communications, or a related field preferred; PMP Certification a plus. Minimum 1 year of retail, merchandising, or store planning experience required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Excel, and Visio. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Detail‑oriented with strong organizational and project coordination abilities. Basic math skills, including percentages, ratios, and spatial measurements. Physical Requirements / Work Environment The physical demands required to perform the essential responsibilities of this position are as follows. Reasonable accommodations, if necessary and/or as required by law, will be made available. Regularly required to sit, use hands, talk, and hear; occasionally lift up to 20 pounds. Requires close vision and extended use of a computer. Regular use of standard office equipment (computer, copier, phone, etc.). This role operates in a standard office environment. Willingness and ability to travel up to 5%. #J-18808-Ljbffr