Lead - Retail Architect

The Lead - Retail Architect at On has a variety of responsibilities including leading the design process for franchise store projects, ensuring that the architectural designs align with On’s brand and visual identity. This role involves creating design packages, collaborating with different teams like Retail Operations, and verifying architectural drawings to ensure compliance with design standards. Additionally, you will be actively involved in interactions with franchisees and external architects to ensure a seamless execution of store designs.

To be considered for the Lead - Retail Architect position at On, candidates should have at least six years of experience in an architectural or design role, particularly within the premium retail sector. Technical expertise in design tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is essential. Additionally, knowledge of building codes and construction regulations is necessary, along with the ability to communicate effectively in Spanish and/or Portuguese.

The Lead - Retail Architect plays a crucial role in supporting On’s growth by creating innovative store designs that reflect On’s brand identity and enhance customer experiences. By leading the design process for new franchise locations and collaborating with various internal and external stakeholders, this role helps ensure that new stores not only meet high standards of design but also strategically position On within the retail market for future expansion.

Essential skills for the Lead - Retail Architect role at On include strong design thinking, project management, and technical proficiency in design software. An understanding of architectural design principles particularly related to premium retail, the ability to navigate building codes and regulations, and excellent collaboration and communication skills are also crucial for success in this position.

The Lead - Retail Architect at On should be prepared for limited travel, estimated at up to 15% of the time. This travel may fluctuate based on business needs, particularly for site visits to ensure that design implementations align with approved concepts and to monitor project progress on various store locations.

When answering this question, be sure to highlight specific projects where you took the lead role, emphasizing your design process, from concept creation through to execution. Discuss the challenges you faced and how you overcame them, focusing on the impact your leadership had on the project's success.

Make a point to discuss your proficiency with software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, V-Ray, and Adobe Creative Suite, providing examples of how you've used these tools in past projects. Be specific about the types of work you completed with each. Emphasize your ability to adapt to new tools as well.

In your response, talk about your familiarity with local regulations and codes you've worked with in the past. Detail your process for researching requirements and how you incorporate this knowledge into your design work to ensure compliance while maintaining design integrity.

Select a project that challenged your design skills or management abilities. Explain the project's scope, the obstacles faced, and the strategies you utilized to navigate these challenges. Focus on outcomes and what you learned from the experience.

Discuss your collaborative approach, emphasizing your communication skills and teamwork capabilities. Give examples of how you've successfully partnered with teams in areas such as Retail Operations or Construction to ensure that design projects stay on track and meet expectations.

Share your strategies for staying informed about design trends and how you apply this knowledge to your work. Mention industry publications, design forums, or conferences you attend, and explain how you leverage these insights to influence your design decisions at On.

Outline your approach to project management, focusing on methodologies you use, such as Agile or Lean principles. Discuss tools you utilize for project tracking and communication, and provide examples of how these strategies lead to successful project outcomes.

Prepare to recount a specific instance when you presented designs to stakeholders. Discuss your approach to crafting an engaging presentation, how you handled feedback, and how you addressed any concerns raised during the discussion.

Reflect on the importance of sustainability in your design philosophy. Mention any sustainable practices or materials you prioritize in your designs and how you integrate these considerations into your project workflow to align with contemporary retail values.

When responding, express your enthusiasm for On's brand and values. Discuss how your personal and professional experiences resonate with On's commitment to performance retail and innovation. Highlight how you can contribute to the company's vision and growth trajectory.