General information

Location

United Kingdom  

Reference

2025-13145  

Position description

Job title

Design Center Development Manager - Global Role

Contract type

Full-time

About us

About Kronospan:
Kronospan is a global leader in the production of wood-based panels, delivering innovative solutions that enhance living spaces and commercial environments. Our products can be used in a variety of settings, from external wall cladding to furniture that you will find in nearly every hotel, home and retail outlet globally. We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of our industry, setting trends and developing a comprehensive product portfolio to support all global markets.

Main duties and responsibilities

Location: Global (Extensive Travel Required)
Position Type: Full-Time, permanent

Kronospan are seeking an enthusiastic and dynamic individual to spearhead the development of our Design Centers worldwide. We have already established our Design Centers in Sofia, Bucharest, Barcelona, Casablanca, Istanbul, London, Athens and Salzburg. This opportunity will provide a high-impact, global role that offers extensive travel and the opportunity to shape the future of our brand's presence in the specification, architectural and design industries.
As the Design Center Development Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of our Design Centers, from identifying and securing prime real estate locations, to managing renovations and building operations, as well as ensuring the spaces are continually updated with the latest product samples, design ranges, and decor. You will be a key figure in ensuring our design centers inspire architects and designers globally to incorporate our products into their projects.

Key Responsibilities:
• Global Expansion: Help grow our network of Design Centers across multiple regions and markets. Identify key locations and manage all aspects of real estate acquisition.
• Real Estate & Permitting: Take ownership of the process of purchasing real estate, securing necessary permits, and obtaining planning permission for the design center properties.
• Project Management: Oversee the entire development and renovation process, including contracting the necessary teams for design, construction, and fit-out of the spaces. Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Team Leadership & Training: Lead the recruitment, training, and management of Design Center staff. Ensure all locations are staffed with knowledgeable and enthusiastic personnel who can effectively showcase our products to the design community.
• Ongoing Maintenance & Updates: Support and develop the spaces alongside the local Design Center teams to ensuring high-standards are kept throughout.
• Inspiration Hub: Curate Design Centers as an inspirational hub for architects, designers, and industry professionals. Ensure the space showcases our products in innovative ways that highlight their relevance for a variety of local, regional, national, and global projects.

Requirements

• Industry Experience: Extensive experience in retail chain development (e.g., fashion outlets, airport retail, coffee shops) or commercial real estate development, with a strong understanding of property ownership and management.
• Real Estate Expertise: A keen sense for identifying ideal real estate locations and an understanding of the intricacies of leasing, purchasing, and developing commercial properties globally.
• Interior Design Knowledge: Strong background or interest in interior design, with a solid understanding of aesthetics and the ability to visualise and implement creative spaces that reflect the brand's identity.
• Project Management: Proven experience in managing complex projects with cross-functional teams. Ability to oversee both high-level strategy and day-to-day execution.
• Global Mindset: A willingness and ability to carry out extensive travel, working across different countries and cultures. Ability to manage global operations while respecting local market nuances.
• Leadership: Strong leadership capabilities, including experience in hiring, training, and leading teams. Ability to motivate and inspire teams to meet and exceed goals.
• Innovative & Strategic: Proactive, innovative, and strategic thinker who can bring creative solutions to design and operational challenges.

What we offer

• Global Exposure: Be part of a fast-growing, international brand and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our Design Centers.
• Travel Opportunities: Extensive global travel to our Design Centers and manufacturing facilities around the world, providing unique exposure to international markets and cultures.
• Career Growth: Opportunity to grow within a rapidly expanding organisation with the potential to make a significant impact.
• Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary and bonus, with travel allowances and other perks dependant on the candidates country of origin.

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