A national multi-banner retail organization is seeking a highly organized and forward-thinking Store Opening Coordinator to oversee the complete lifecycle of new store openings, relocations, and renovation projects across Canada. This role is responsible for coordinating all activities required to bring both large-format stores and specialty retail locations to life, ensuring each space is fully built out, equipped, merchandised, and operationally ready for opening day.
With a development pipeline of approximately 50 store setups annually and continued expansion into larger-format and big-box environments, this opportunity is ideal for a detail-oriented retail operations professional who understands the practical, hands-on coordination required to build and prepare successful stores. This includes fixtures and hardware installation, merchandising readiness, operational supplies, POS and IT system activation, security integration, marketing and signage requirements, and all mall and landlord coordination. This highly collaborative role partners closely with Operations, Construction, Merchandising, Marketing, Facilities, IT, HR, Loss Prevention, mall management, and external trades to ensure every location opens smoothly, on time, fully functional, and aligned with brand standards.
Description
Project Coordination & Timeline Management
- Coordinate all activities related to new store openings, relocations, and renovation projects across all banners.
- Serve as the central point of contact for project schedules, ensuring milestones are communicated, tracked, and achieved.
- Support Operations with project plans, critical paths, timelines, and progress reporting.
- Ensure all pre-opening requirements - permits, signage, supplies, fixtures, equipment, staffing, IT readiness, and security are completed on schedule.
Store Readiness & Execution (Hands-On)
- Lead onsite store setup, ensuring fixtures, wall hardware, shelving, and merchandising environments are properly installed.
- Coordinate procurement and delivery of fixtures, equipment, supplies, installation components, and store setup materials.
- Oversee setup and testing of all store systems, including:
o POS terminals and payment devices
o Network, Wi-Fi, and communication systems
o Security systems, including alarms, cameras, DVRs, and access controls
o Back-office technology and system connections
- Conduct post-opening evaluations and recommend improvements for future setups. Oversee cosmetics and finishing work, including painting, lighting installation, music setup, and overall environmental standards.
- Identify, schedule, and manage trades such as handymen, painters, electricians, IT technicians, and fixture installers.
- Ensure stores are fully prepared for operations to begin merchandising and staff training.
- Troubleshoot onsite issues and resolve obstacles that could impact opening timelines.
Cross-Functional Communication
- Liaise with Construction, Facilities, Merchandising, Marketing, IT, HR, and Loss Prevention to align deliverables.
- Coordinate with mall management on access, permits, landlord requirements, and communication.
- Provide updates to District Managers, Area Managers, Store Managers, and internal support teams.
- Work with Marketing to ensure opening collateral, signage, and promotional elements are in place.
Administration & Documentation
- Maintain detailed project files, fixture logs, vendor records, issue lists, and communication notes.
- Track milestone completion and provide timely updates to stakeholder groups.
- Contribute to SOP development and continuous improvement of the store-opening process.
- Prepare post-opening reports and ensure learnings are captured for future openings.
Requirements
- 5+ years of experience in retail store operations, store openings, or project coordination.
- Bachelor’s degree preferred; PMP certification is considered an asset.
- Experience supporting construction or facilities-related projects is an asset (not required).
- Strong background in new store openings, operational standards, retail execution, and systems readiness.
- Experience coordinating cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to meet deadlines, manage multiple priorities, and work independently.
- Proficiency in Word, Excel, and project-tracking tools.
- Ability to travel within Canada, including overnight travel when required.
Corporate Culture
This multi-brand retailers continues to embrace diversity and supports an inclusive work environment. Working there requires real energy, commitment, flexibility, and true teamwork. Whether you’re a graduate ready to start your retail fashion career, or a professional looking for your next challenge, they offer exciting opportunities to learn, contribute and grow.
They welcome diversity and encourage all applications, including people with disabilities. In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, accommodation is available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection and recruitment process. Also, they continue to embrace diversity and support an inclusive work environment
