New Store Opening Project Manager

UNIQLO • Full-time • New York City Metropolitan Area, US • 3w ago

Company Overview:

Apparel that comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. Designed to be of the time and for the time, LifeWear is made with such modern elegance that it becomes the building blocks of each individual’s style. A perfect shirt that is always being made more perfect. The simplest design hiding the most thoughtful and modern details. The best in fit and fabric made to be affordable and accessible to all. LifeWear is clothing that is constantly being innovated, bringing more warmth, better design, and better comfort to people’s lives.

Position Overview:

The New Store Opening (NSO) Project Manager is responsible for end-to-end project management to support the expansion and renewal of our retail stores within the Business Operations Support (BOS) team. This position serves as the primary point of contact for the store operations team and coordinates with all relevant internal and external stakeholders to ensure timely project completion. In particular, the NSO Project Manager assumes full accountability for preparing new stores following site handover and provides post-opening support to stabilize operations and resolve any outstanding issues.

Job Responsibilities:

Oversee and manage end-to-end project execution, including planning, management alignment, implementation, and troubleshooting for new store openings, renovations, closures, and other special initiatives.
Lead and coordinate the store operations team and cross-functional departments at the Store Support Center (SSC) to ensure timely completion of all project deliverables.
Ensure the new store operations are in line with the latest store operation standards and current business situation.
Assume direct responsibility for grand opening preparations post-site handover, such as arranging sales floor fixtures, organizing back-of-house (BOH) setup, and overseeing progress across Construction, Marketing, IT, and other relevant departments.
Act as the main contact for the store operations team and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate timely and efficient communication.
Liaise and negotiate with external partners, including mall management, logistics providers, and general contractors, to ensure smooth project progression.
Develop and continuously update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to enhance quality, cost efficiency, and delivery timelines for projects involving both internal and external partners.
Collaborate effectively with team members to drive rapid business expansion through cohesive teamwork.
On-site support is essential for new store openings or any retail projects across the United States, which may involve business travel of up to one week, including urgent assignments.
Provide post-opening support to stabilize store operations and coordinate with other departments to resolve outstanding on-site issues.
Perform extra tasks and other duties as directed by the supervisor.

Qualifications:

At least 3 years’ experience as a project manager in new store openings or retail operations.
Bachelor’s degree required; preference for business administration, retail management, or project management credentials.
Must have retail experience; equivalent experience setting up new sites with an operations team (e.g., entertainment facility, hotel) is also acceptable.
Experience with project management software and tools as well as skills in project management with multiple stakeholders are necessary.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of internal and external customers, including vendor handling.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).
Experience in design, recruitment, and marketing for a new site as well as coordinating delivery orders is regarded as an asset.
Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities.
Able to anticipate needs, solve problems, and exercise independent judgment within established guidelines while maintaining composure under pressure.
Self-motivated and personable with a flexible approach to assigned tasks.
Understanding of Japan or East Asia high-context culture is considered helpful but not required.