Reporting to the Senior Manager, Retail Business Development, the Designer, Retail Business Development is responsible for leading the design process and supporting the execution of Lindt retail store projects across Canada. This role contributes to the successful planning, layout, and execution of new store builds, renovations, relocations, and special retail initiatives. The Designer ensures all store environments are brand-aligned, operationally sound, and optimized for an elevated customer experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with the Senior Manager, Retail Business Development to establish and maintain store design and development processes.
• Understand and apply Lindt’s store layout criteria, scope, and global brand standards.
• Support end-to-end project execution for new store builds, renovations, and relocations through to operational handover.
• Review contractor and consultant proposals, ensuring clear timelines, deliverables, and permit processes.
• Collaborate with internal cross-functional teams and external partners (architects, contractors, visual merchandisers) to design functional and engaging store environments.
• Maintain alignment with global retail development standards and brand guidelines in local markets.
• Coordinate timely delivery of Lindt-supplied items to ensure on-time, on-budget project execution.
• Conduct site walkthroughs throughout the project lifecycle, from initial inspection to final handover.
• Identify and escalate risks or issues related to project budget, timeline, or quality, and support resolution on-site.
• Ensure compliance with local building codes and permitting requirements; guide vendors accordingly.
• Participate in final project inspections with Retail Business Development, Retail Activation & Experience, and Operations teams.
• Assist with post-project evaluations and identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Act as a subject matter expert on Lindt’s global retail design standards (e.g., Crema Gelata, fixtures), adapting for local markets.
• Collaborate with the Local Maintenance Manager to assess long-term implications of design choices.
• Incorporate maintenance considerations and feedback into material and equipment selection.
• Assist with CAPEX and OPEX budget planning for store development projects.
• Process and track related invoices in coordination with Finance and Project Management.
• Support budget alignment and fiscal responsibility across all store development initiatives.

Qualifications

• 3-5+ years’ experience as a Designer, Project Manager and/or a similar role within the either in the Canadian Retail Industry, Architectural firm and/or General Contractor (Design certifications preferred)
• Project management experience, ideally in both construction and design
• Proficiency with AutoCAD and/or similar design software
• Proficiency in reviewing technical construction plans
• Proficiency in retail design aesthetic, function and experience
• Assist in overseeing multiple projects at varying stages of complexity simultaneously
• Exceptional communication, presentation & networking skills, and an ability to work cross-functionally
• Must have a thorough understanding of architectural, construction and commercial real estate processes
• A proven track record of successfully managing multiple real estate projects in a fast-paced and results-driven work environment
• Strong analytical, problem solving and negotiations skills
• Highly organized, excellent attention to detail
• Proficient in Excel, Word, Power Point
• Ability to travel up to 80%
• Bilingual is an asset

Why Lindt Canada? Join our winning culture and become part of our team of passionate and dynamic individuals in our journey to become the leader in the Canadian chocolate market. Our environment characterizes personal commitment, drive, initiative and entrepreneurial spirit, working together as one team to reach outstanding results. We encourage, recognize and reward innovation, personal initiative, leadership and accountability throughout the organization. We are recognized as a Great Place to Work so come and grow your career with us, it’s a pretty sweet deal. To learn more about our winning culture, visit https://careers.lindtcanada.ca and or follow us on LinkedIn.

Lindt & Sprüngli is recognized as a leader in the market for premium quality chocolate, offering a large selection of products in more than 120 countries around the world. During more than 170 years of Lindt & Sprüngli's existence, it has become known as one of the most innovative and creative companies making premium chocolate, with 12 production sites in Europe and the USA, and distribution and sales companies on four continents.

We thank all those who have applied however, only selected candidates will be contacted. Lindt is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request. Please contact our Human Resources department for more information.

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