Lead - Retail Architect

ON RUNNING; London; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 75,000

Job description

In short

On is expanding its retail presence and shaping the future of performance retail. We're looking for a dynamic Retail Design Lead, reporting to the Sr. Lead - Retail Design, to help bring our vision to life across the Americas. In this role, you'll lead the store design workstream for new retail locations - with a primary focus on franchise stores - in close collaboration with internal teams and external partners.

You'll combine strong design thinking with project management skills to create spaces that reflect On's unique identity and elevate the customer experience. This is a key role in supporting On's next phase of growth and innovation in physical retail.

Your Mission

• Lead the end-to-end design process for franchise store projects, and support DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) store openings when needed - from initial concept through to build-out.
• Translate On's brand, values, and visual identity into architectural design, ensuring consistency and quality across all store environments.
• Deliver design packages, including zoning concepts, 3D modeling, visualizations, sample boards, and presentations for internal approvals.
• Ensure compliance with On's global design guidelines, local building codes, landlord criteria, and health and safety standards.
• Partner with franchisees, local architects, external design firms, contractors, and suppliers to deliver spaces that meet On's standards and timelines.
• Review architectural drawings to verify alignment with the approved design concept and intent.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams - Leasing, Construction, Retail Operations, Visual Experience (VM), Retail Technology, and IT - for a coordinated and smooth execution.
• Monitor design progress, ensure on-brand execution, and support landlord communications, visiting sites as needed throughout the project lifecycle.

Your story

• 6+ years of experience in an architectural or design role, designing for premium retail brands.
• Led design projects for premium retail stores from concept through completion.
• Technical expertise in 2D and 3D drawing and rendering, using tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp or Enscape, V-Ray, Adobe Creative Suite.
• Experience in construction detailing and fixture development, with a deep understanding of how design translates into build environments.
• Knowledge of building codes, accessibility standards, and other relevant construction regulations.
• Fluency in Spanish and/or Portuguese is required.
• Willingness to travel up to 15% of the time; travel percentage will fluctuate based on business needs.