Interior Design Manager

Roles and responsibilities

• Support the store with expertise to secure that the commercial level regarding range presentation and visual merchandising is optimised and that there is a common thread throughout the store
• Ensure that time plans and budgets set by the Store Manager are followed for all work related to changing and updating all areas of the IKEA store in sync with the Commercial Calendar
• Develop and implement the annual business plan with the store management team in regards to comin department and areas of responsibility
• Plan, execute and follow-up of the stores’ commercial calendars
• You work with the Country Comm. In Manager to plan and organise marketing activities related to the commercial calendar.
• To work as a team with the rest of the Commercial team (ISL and Sales) in order to achieve the store sales target and the level of inspirations agreed with the Store management.
• Contribute in achieving the store sales target
• Maintain the store budget for the Com & In department.
• Ensure IKEA store should provide a vibrant and exciting atmosphere that convince the visitors to come back for more repeat visits
  

OPERATIONAL

• Ensure that systems and methods stated in IKEA Concept Documentation are implemented throughout the whole store
• Plan and lead major changes in the store including building up new room sets, new homes, new departments
• Provide Comm&In support to the Expansion team
• Provide a vibrant and enthralling environment to the Staff and Back Office areas.
• Work closely and collaborate with Sales and ISL departments.
  

PEOPLE MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT

• Ensure that all Com & In team members have received the necessary training in safety and security aspects related to the use of this equipment so they are able to follow the rules and regulations and prevent accidents
• Ensure all co-workers are properly trained including development programs to secure the store performance and succession needs
• Manage the recruitment of the Comm & In department. Ensure the vacancies are filled as soon as they arise and the right candidates are hired in the vacant positions with the needed technical skills
• Ensure positive results in the employee survey and taking action in the areas where the satisfaction is low
  

Required Skills To Be Successful

• Deep interest in and highly developed knowledge of home furnishings and the way people live
• Project management experience
• Store layout planning experience
• Strategic Planning and Analytical Skills
• Excellent & effective Communication skills
• Proficient user of MS office applications
• Creative thinking and problem solving skills
• Leadership and people management skills
  

What Equips You For The Role

• 7 years interior design/visual merchandising experience in or outside IKEA, preferably in home furnishing retail business.
• University degree in interior design, communication and arts is highly preferred.
• Experience of managing/leading and developing a team
• Tactical thinker
• Understand KPIs and how to affect their results through departmental actions

Desired candidate profile

. Project Management:

• Project Coordination: Oversee multiple design projects from inception to completion, ensuring that design concepts are implemented within time and budget constraints.
• Team Leadership: Lead and supervise a team of interior designers, junior designers, and other project staff, assigning tasks, providing guidance, and ensuring that project milestones are met.
• Client Liaison: Act as the main point of contact between clients and the design team, ensuring that client expectations are understood and met.
• Scheduling: Develop and manage project timelines, ensuring all deadlines are met for design drafts, approvals, and final installations.
• Resource Allocation: Oversee the allocation of resources, ensuring that the appropriate materials, products, and skilled personnel are available for each project.

2. Design Development:

• Conceptual Design: Lead the development of interior design concepts that reflect the client’s style, objectives, and brand identity.
• Design Proposals and Presentations: Create and present design proposals, including mood boards, sketches, and 3D renderings, to clients for approval.
• Design Coordination: Ensure that design elements (furniture, fixtures, lighting, color schemes, flooring, wall finishes, etc.) work harmoniously to achieve a cohesive look and feel.
• Space Planning: Oversee efficient use of space, ensuring that the design maximizes functionality and flow while remaining visually appealing.
• Compliance: Ensure all designs comply with local building codes, regulations, and safety standards.

3. Budget and Cost Management:

• Cost Estimation: Prepare accurate cost estimates for each design project, including materials, labor, and installation.
• Budget Monitoring: Track project expenses and ensure that projects stay within the allocated budget. Negotiate with vendors, suppliers, and contractors to obtain the best pricing without compromising quality.
• Cost-Saving Measures: Identify cost-saving opportunities and suggest alternatives to meet both design goals and financial constraints.

4. Vendor and Contractor Management:

• Sourcing Materials and Products: Research and select high-quality materials, furnishings, fixtures, and finishes within the client’s budget and design goals.
• Supplier and Contractor Coordination: Manage relationships with vendors, contractors, and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of materials and smooth execution of the project.
• Quality Control: Oversee the quality of materials and workmanship, ensuring that all elements meet the design specifications and quality standards.
• Contract Negotiation: Negotiate contracts with vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors, ensuring terms, pricing, and timelines are met.

5. Client Communication and Relationship Management:

• Client Briefing: Meet with clients to understand their needs, preferences, and project goals. Develop a clear brief that serves as the foundation for the design process.
• Regular Updates: Provide clients with regular updates on project progress, timelines, and any issues that may arise. Manage expectations and ensure that clients are satisfied with the ongoing work.
• Client Approvals: Manage the approval process for design plans, materials, and finished projects, addressing any client concerns or requests for revisions.
• Post-Project Support: Ensure client satisfaction upon project completion and handle any post-installation issues or adjustments needed.