Head of Store Construction UK+I

Who Are We?

We are Vision Express - with over 550 stores across the UK and Ireland, we have something for everyone. Whether you want to work in a busy city centre flagship, a smaller village store or in one of our coastal locations, we're sure we will have the perfect solution for you!

Did you know, we are also part of the EssilorLuxottica family? EssilorLuxottica is the global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of lenses, frames and sunglasses! We are home to the most loved and widely-recognised vision care and eyewear brands in the world. Their priority eyewear brands include Ray-Ban, Oakley, Costa, Vogue Eyewear, Persol and Oliver Peoples, complemented by over 20 prestigious licensed brands.

Role Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Construction Lead to coordinate and lead our Project Managers, both internal and external consultants, across the UK and Ireland for our prestigious retail brands, such as David Clulow, Sunglass Hut, and John Lewis Opticians. This pivotal role encompasses overseeing the planning, design, and construction engineering for over 700 retail stores in the region, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of Project Managers and local consultants, ensuring effective collaboration and communication throughout all project phases.
• Oversee the planning, detailed design, and construction engineering for new and remodelled retail stores.
• Undertake construction engineering design in conjunction with local consultants.
• Select and manage local consultants and permit expeditors from the Luxottica corporate vendor list.
• Manage relationships with local authorities, malls, airports, outlet centres, and department stores related to projects.
• Prepare comprehensive reports, specifications, and technical analyses to define design requirements and necessary equipment/services.
• Define project scope, goals, and deliverables; create schedules and timelines; allocate resources effectively.
• Monitor project progress, track deliverables, and share updates with stakeholders, addressing issues proactively.
• Lead quality assurance processes and ensure execution aligns with established standards and project specifications.
• Evaluate and control construction budgets, ensuring cost management aligns with project timelines and goals.
• Ensure effective communication of construction constraints and achievements among all stakeholders.
• Implement and manage process changes to adapt to evolving project requirements.
• Evaluate and assess project outcomes, providing recommendations for future improvements.

Network of Interaction:

• Internal: Collaborate with departments including Construction, Property-Real Estate, Logistics, Procurement, Planning, Finance, and Administration.
• External: Engage with general contractors, local consultants, permit expeditors, material suppliers, and landlords’ representatives.

Technical Skills - Professional Knowledge:

• Strong dedication to achieving project targets and technical experience in managing teams and resources.
• Excellent organisational capabilities and collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage construction sites effectively and report findings clearly.
• Strong capability in identifying issues and generating effective solutions.
• Relevant degree in construction management, engineering, or related field would be desirable but related experience would also be suitable.
• Proven experience in retail construction management or project management. Experience within a retail, multisite organisation would be highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of UK construction regulations and best practices.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.