Divisional Program Manager Store Design- Hybrid Seattle, WA

Divisional Program Manager

The Divisional Program Manager (DPM) leads all Store Design projects within assigned divisions, serving as the primary Store Design partner to Nordstrom Merchandising Group (NMG). This role manages projects from inception through execution, ensuring alignment across work streams and stakeholdersincluding executive leadership, internal teams, external vendors, brands, and consultants. The DPM plays a critical role in the shaping and implementation of the planning process to support divisional programs and initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Program Management

• Provide specialized design services and support for assigned divisions, including store layouts, fixture planning, space optimization, and test-fit studies to drive business objectives.
• Drive the development of store planning standards; integrate best practices and retail innovations to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
• Manage technical aspects of interior design (FF&E, millwork, finishes) and advise on remodels, new store concepts, and casework layouts.
• Lead innovation initiatives, fixture / department reinventions, and document best-in-class design practices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and external partners to define scope, budgets, timelines, and deliverables; ensure timely execution and quality outcomes.
• Develop tools and processes to organize, track, and communicate project status; continuously improve operating practices for speed and cost efficiency.
• Supervise onsite installations and resolve project issues using appropriate resources.

Project Management

Financials and Budget

Core Competencies

Drive Results

Emphasizes the importance of achieving results; challenges poor outcomes or unproductive behaviors. Focuses on overcoming obstacles and delivering results through the team.

Builds Trust

Gains trust by showing consistency between what is said and what is done.

Communicates Effectively

Takes steps to ensure effective communication between individuals and teams. Pays attention to others' input and perspectives; ask questions and summarizes input to confirm understanding.

Decision Quality

Demonstrates an ability to make tough decisions and advance initiatives that may be unpopular. Integrates analysis, experience, and other inputs to make effective decisions.

Manages Complexity

Explores issues and uncovers the underlying issues and root causes. Determines the new information needed to solve problems and incorporates these concepts into the analysis.

Qualifications

35 years in project / program management within retail or design (architecture, interior planning, construction, vendor sourcing, product development) or 5+ years in corporate Visual Merchandising Management.

Degree / diploma in architecture, interior design, visual merchandising, or related field; proficient in reading construction documents and shop drawings, preferred. Strong project execution, organizational, and decision-making abilities; adept at managing multiple priorities under tight deadlines.

Expertise in design communication (visual, written, verbal) and architectural details / specifications. Ability to balance design excellence with operational and budget constraints; strategic thinker focused on continuous improvement.

Skilled in collaboration across cross-functional teams; strong negotiation and problem-solving capabilities. Technical skills : AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Smartsheet, Microsoft 365, Confluence, Coupa, POMS (Purchase Order Management Software), preferred. Experience with process improvement (Six Sigma, Lean, TQM) a plus.

Ability to travel up to 40%, work off-hours / weekends as needed.

Benefits

Nordstrom offers a variety of benefits to support employees and their families, including : Medical / Vision, Dental, Retirement and Paid Time Away, Life Insurance and Disability, Merchandise Discount and EAP Resources.

Pay Range : $92,000.00 - $155,000.00 Annual

About Us

We're a fast-moving fashion company that started as a shoe store in 1901. This heritage of service is the foundation we're building on as we provide convenience and true connection for our customers. We empower our people to be innovative, creative and focused on providing the best service to our customers. Through it all, we remain committed to leaving the world better than we found it. Whether you're a genius engineer, a phenomenal salesperson or a supply chain pro, we invite you to bring your unique talents and join our team. We reward great work, promote from within and celebrate diversity.

CUSTOMER OBSESSED : We strive to know our customers better than anyone else. We listen, anticipate, build trust and move with speed to deliver on their needs.

OWNERS AT HEART : We treat every interaction as an opportunity to make an impact and deliver excellence.

CURIOUS AND EVER CHANGING : We approach problems with curiosity and create solutions. We unlock potential to be bold, think big and inspire innovation.

HERE TO WIN : We're committed to delivering results, both today and tomorrow. We win as a team by supporting and challenging one another to be better every day.

WE EXTEND OURSELVES : We treat each other with respect and kindness. We do the small things that make a big difference. We create a welcoming environment, helping people feel connected, valued and part of one community.

Come on! Join us!