Interior Design Manager

Roles and Responsibilities

• Support the store with expertise to secure that the commercial level regarding range presentation and visual merchandising is optimized 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 the ComIn department and areas of responsibility.
• Plan, execute, and follow up on the store’s commercial calendars.
• Work with the Country Comm. In Manager to plan and organize marketing activities related to the commercial calendar.
• Collaborate with the rest of the Commercial team (ISL and Sales) to achieve the store sales target and the level of inspirations agreed with the Store management.
• Contribute to achieving the store sales target.
• Maintain the store budget for the Com & In department.
• Ensure the IKEA store provides a vibrant and exciting atmosphere that convinces visitors to return 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 new room sets, new homes, and 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 equipment.
• Ensure all co-workers are properly trained, including development programs to secure store performance and succession needs.
• Manage the recruitment of the Comm & In department, ensuring vacancies are filled quickly with the right candidates.
• Ensure positive results in the employee survey and take action in areas where 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 and 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 of interior design/visual merchandising experience, preferably in home furnishing retail.
• University degree in interior design, communication, or arts is highly preferred.
• Experience in managing, leading, and developing a team.
• Tactical thinker.
• Understanding of 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, assigning tasks, providing guidance, and ensuring project milestones are met.
• Client Liaison: Act as the main point of contact between clients and the design team, ensuring 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 appropriate materials and skilled personnel are available for each project.

Design Development:

• Conceptual Design: Lead the development of interior design concepts that reflect the client’s style and objectives.
• Design Proposals and Presentations: Create and present design proposals, including mood boards and sketches, to clients for approval.
• Design Coordination: Ensure design elements work harmoniously to achieve a cohesive look.
• Space Planning: Oversee efficient use of space, maximizing functionality while remaining visually appealing.
• Compliance: Ensure all designs comply with local building codes and safety standards.

Budget and Cost Management:

• Cost Estimation: Prepare accurate cost estimates for each design project.
• Budget Monitoring: Track project expenses, ensuring projects stay within budget.
• Cost-Saving Measures: Identify cost-saving opportunities and suggest alternatives.

Vendor and Contractor Management:

• Sourcing Materials and Products: Research and select high-quality materials within the client’s budget.
• Supplier and Contractor Coordination: Manage relationships to ensure timely delivery and smooth execution of projects.
• Quality Control: Oversee the quality of materials and workmanship.
• Contract Negotiation: Negotiate contracts with vendors and suppliers.

Client Communication and Relationship Management:

• Client Briefing: Meet with clients to understand their needs and develop a clear brief.
• Regular Updates: Provide clients with regular updates on project progress.
• Client Approvals: Manage the approval process for design plans and materials.
• Post-Project Support: Ensure client satisfaction upon project completion.