Store Development Manager

Manager of store development is responsible for leading and overseeing all aspects of retail store (both Full price & Outlet) development in both permanent and popup, including site selection, lease negotiation, design, construction, and project management. This role plays a critical part in supporting the company’s growth strategy by delivering high-quality, brand-aligned retail spaces on time and within budget , aligned leading specific initiatives in terms of store concept innovation and store format across channels(Full price & Outler) , to delight our customers and deliver our commercial target .it involves ensuring a high level of communication with various stakeholders including management team internally and HQ in UK.

Dimensions (Scope):

Store Development

• Lead end-to-end store development projects, including openings, renovations, and relocations.
• Execute strategic expansion initiatives in line with Clarks brand growth objectives.
• Conduct market analysis and feasibility studies to evaluate new locations.
• Negotiate leases and manage relationships with landlords and developers.
• Ensure timely, on-budget, and high-quality project delivery by supervising construction.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams for seamless store launches.
• Analyze store performance and market trends to guide development strategy.

Accountabilities (responsibility):

Store Development Leadership

Strategic Planning & Market Expansion

• Drive the end-to-end store development strategy in alignment with Clarks’ brand growth objectives and market positioning. Identify high-potential markets and retail opportunities through data-driven location planning and expansion roadmaps.

Site Selection & Real Estate Management

• Lead comprehensive site evaluations, including market research, footfall analysis, demographic profiling, and competitor benchmarking.Negotiate favorable lease terms and maintain strong relationships with landlords, property developers, and real estate partners to secure premium locations.

Design & Construction Execution

• Oversee the full lifecycle of store design and build—from initial concept to grand opening—ensuring every space reflects Clarks' brand identity and retail standards.Ensure consistency in store aesthetics and customer journey while adapting layouts to local market needs and consumer behavior. Manage project timelines, construction quality, vendor coordination, and cost control to deliver on time and within budget.

Cross-Functional Integration

• Partner with key internal departments including Retail Operations, Merchandising , Marketing, Visual Merchandising, Finance, Legal, and IT to ensure seamless, aligned execution of store projects.
• Act as the central liaison between internal teams and external partners to ensure strategic alignment and operational readiness.

Financial Oversight & Regulatory Compliance

• Develop and manage capital expenditure budgets for new store development and refurbishment projects with a strong focus on ROI and cost-efficiency.

Brand, Commercial, and Cultural Impact

• Lead store development as a commercial and cultural ambassador—ensuring every store enhances Clarks’ brand equity, drives sales growth, and embodies the company’s values and retail philosophy.
• Create spaces that not only perform commercially but also inspire teams, attract customers, and reflect the brand's commitment to quality and innovation

Key Performance Indicators:

Brand Positioning & Commercial Impact

• Drive store development that enhances brand visibility and customer experience.
• Align store environments with sales objectives and long-term business goals.
• Foster company culture through thoughtful space planning and team collaboration.

Store Development Management

• Lead multiple store projects (openings, renovations, relocations) with strict adherence to timelines and budgets. Ensure store design and execution align with brand identity and operational standards.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience:

Skills & Knowledge

• Detailed knowledge of retail operations, retail reporting protocols, retail KPI’s, retail promotional planning
• Knowledge of retail store design and construction
• Knowledge of seasonal sales cycles and processes
• Visual merchandising and branding sense
• Thorough knowledge of branding in a retail environment
• Commercial business acumen.
• PC Skills (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Clear communicator at all levels inside and outside the organisation
• Strong negotiation skills
• Staff management skills
• Self-starter
• Business level in Japanese and English
• Flexible understanding and creation of brand business

Experience

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a retail management role (covering full price and outlet stores) with P&L responsibility, preferably in the footwear or fashion industry.
• Previous experience in retail store development, design, and construction.
• Previous experience in staffing for retail environments
• Previous experience in seeking suitable retail spaces and conducting negotiations with mall developers.