Manager, VM Production and Concept

Role Overview

The Manager, Visual Merchandising & Concept is responsible for driving and implementing Visual communication initiatives throughout the North America Region.

In this role you will collaborate with corporate and retail teams to provide the highest level of support across all types of network activations while always ensuring to uphold the Maison’s standards of excellence and consistency and meet communications strategies. You will lead the production of large-scale Visual Merchandising projects from conception to the final installation.

Definition of Visual Merchandising includes but is not limited to:

• Upkeeping of Van Cleef & Arpels standards of excellence
• Large scale seasonal animations and façade/boutique takeovers
• Large scale animations supporting product launches
• Visual support to events and large-scale projects
• Out of store installations, exhibitions & Pop Ups
• Clear communication with key stakeholders to ensure project is completed on time

The ideal candidate must have experience in planning and implementing special large scale visual Retail projects and proven background of project management. They thrive in high-pressure environments, have a great sense of urgency, are decisive and act with grace. They possess the expertise and passion and are always in search of excellence through the project planning process. They have superior communications skills and strive for transparency. They must have a strong understanding of luxury retail and can be agile, propose creative ideas, problem solve and prioritize workload in a demanding environment. This person will report to the Senior Manager, Visual Merchandising and is based in New York City.

Responsibilities

Maintain Visual foundation through concept development, production and installation of VM seasonal and special window animations and special large-scale takeovers and pop-up projects

• Oversee conceptualization, development, management, and execution of all special projects that support VCA’s communications strategies – determine objectives and measure achievements
• Brief and manage vendors on large scale projects
• Drive approval process with HQ team on all concepts and activities and implement changes as needed
• Streamline communication with HQ and local vendors as needed
• Oversee production and coordination of installation of all visuals for large scale special projects
• Ensure visual décors for all projects meet Maison’s standards
• Propose new ideas to improve planning and implementation processes
• Be onsite for installations

Work transversally with all other departments to ensure projects are defined and rolled out in an efficient and collaborative manner:

• Lead an internal taskforce as needed for all projects
• Events: co-develop all VM elements relative to event initiatives
• Marketing & Supply Chain: ensure installations are in line with Maison product strategy and adapted to inventory situation
• Store Planning: work collaboratively to ensure all animations are installed with respect of furniture, materials etc.
• Retail teams: Collaborate with regional Directors as needed
• It & Security: Liaise with teams as needed

Execute Professional Services Agreements and Rfp’s

• Work with legal team to execute Professional Services Agreements for each project
• Define Scope of Work that is unique to each project
• Work with Richemont procurement team to establish RFP process
• Review and negotiate project bids for all installations

Obtain permitting for each project

• Understand the permitting process as it pertains to each project
• Hire consultants such as architects, engineers, permit expeditors, and inspectors per each city guideline
• Submit for permits in a timely manner to ensure installation can open on time

Monitor Project Budgets

• Project, plan, and review budgets per project
• Monitor and update the budget as needed throughout the year to ensure that budgets are not exceeded and allocated most efficiently
• Review, submit and approve invoices from the department

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum of 6 years related experience in related areas of Visual Merchandising project management
• Proven large scale event production required
• Luxury experiences a must
• Retail experience a plus
• Ability to travel 30% of the time
• Ability to work events outside of normal business hours
• Project management/Organizational skills
• Strong working knowledge of Windows environment, Excel, and PowerPoint Knowledge of Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop
• Able to read technical drawings
• Sap knowledge is a plus
• Proficiency in French is a plus

Currently, we are not sponsoring work visas. Applicants must have valid work authorization for employment in the USA.

Richemont offers a generous compensation and benefits package for eligible employees. Only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.

More than a job…it’s an experience!

If you are interested in joining the influential growth of the Maison with care, no compromise, and the drive to succeed then do not hesitate to enter the creative universe of Van Cleef & Arpels.  By joining the Maison, you will be part of a nurturing team focused on delivering excellence and development.

The recruitment process:

Please complete an application on the Richemont Career Site.

Selected candidates will be contacted by the HR team for an interview.