Job Description

The Retail Change Manager leads the execution of all Retail Change initiatives — including new store openings, remodels, resets, and closures — ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and to brand standards. Serving as the field-based liaison between Central Operations, Construction, Commercial, Facilities, and Field Operations, this role ensures flawless project delivery and operational readiness from build to business transition.

Location: This role requires living within 30 miles of (SFO) airport or a willingness to self-relocate.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Execution

• Lead and coordinate all phases of new store openings, remodels, resets, and closures across assigned locations.
• Drive operational readiness, ensuring all pre- and post-opening activities meet WHSmith standards.
• Partner cross-functionally with Construction, Facilities, and Field Operations to monitor timelines, budgets, and readiness milestones.
• Lead on-site project execution and completion of punch lists and Day 2 actions.
• Provide hands-on leadership and oversight during key project stages to guide teams and vendors through setup and merchandising.

Operational Excellence & Process Management

• Maintain visibility to project budgets, vendor performance, and progress against plan.
• Develop, implement, and maintain standardized Retail Change processes, checklists, and playbooks to ensure consistency.
• Support continuous improvement through post-project evaluations and best practice sharing.
• Identify and resolve field-level challenges quickly, escalating as necessary to maintain schedule and quality.

Cross-Functional Partnership

• Collaborate with Commercial, Merchandising, and Operations teams to ensure readiness for turnover.
• Partner with Facilities and external contractors to align on delivery standards, timelines, and compliance.
• Provide clear communication and updates to all stakeholders throughout each project lifecycle.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations, or Project Management (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of retail operations or project management experience.
• Strong understanding of construction and retail fixture processes.
• Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent projects with tight deadlines.
• Strong financial and organizational skills.
• Ability to travel frequently for field-based execution.

Skills & Competencies

• Project management and execution expertise.
• Operational readiness and compliance focus.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management.
• Collaborative leadership and problem-solving.
• Adaptability, composure, and results orientation.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Leadership Attributes

• Hands-on and highly organized with strong follow-through.
• Builds partnerships and alignment across departments.
• Proactive communicator who anticipates and resolves challenges.
• Upholds WHSmith’s values through accountability, teamwork, and excellence.

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