Concept Design Manager Discover greater levels of performance. With over 1,400 stores throughout the U.S., Ulta Beauty is revolutionizing the beauty retail experience. With new stores coming online on a continual basis and the re-engineering of existing locations with the latest design and technological advancements for heightened guest experiences, we're not just growing, we're thriving. Through consistent innovation and a bold commitment to reimagination. If you want the opportunity to build something strategic, to take ownership of your career trajectory, to apply your passion to operational excellence, Ulta Beauty provides the kind of stability and support few organizations can match. So be curious. Be flexible. Be more than you thought possible. The future is yours at Ulta Beauty. As a Concept Design Manager, you will own design development for net-new Visual Merchandising initiatives within our various store formats, international markets, and promotional activations. Under the Sr. Manager, Concept Development, you will intake new projects, develop briefs, and most critically - visualize fixtures and environments which promote connection and elevate the Customer Experience. You will have a unique opportunity to bring new and exciting concepts to life and make a significant impact on our brand, in close collaboration with partners from Store Design, Merchandising, Creative, and Operations.
Core Job Responsibilities:
Lead the design development of new Visual Merchandising initiatives from initial ideation to final concept. Projects may include – but are not limited to – retail fixtures, displays, activations, and environments. Personally develop and visualize fixture, display, and environmental concepts through hand sketching, 2D design, and advanced 3D modeling/rendering using industry-standard tools. Adapt the level of visualization to the need – from rapid live ideation and quick concept sketches to fully developed, presentation-quality renderings. Translate creative ideas and business needs into clear, compelling design concepts that communicate form, scale, materiality, functionality, and Customer Experience throughout the development process. Apply knowledge of materials, fabrication, and construction to ensure concepts can translate effectively through engineering, production, and ultimately in-store execution. Lead the transition of fully developed concepts to peer teams and International markets, ensuring design intent, key details, and execution requirements are clearly communicated and maintained through implementation Author and present thoughtful, design-forward presentations to Leadership. Presentation content may include project strategy, fixture drawings, development, and status updates - condensing complex designs, strategies, and details into easily digestible recommendations. As an owner of design development, work closely with SD&E Ops to keep other workstreams informed of new projects, their evolution, and potential crossover. Prioritize process improvements that facilitate collaboration and mitigate duplicative touch points.
Additional Responsibilities:
Consistently work to bring the Visual Merchandising point of view to the center of discussions, partnering with cross functional teams to make thoughtful recommendations to business partners to achieve the best design.
Research industry design trends to inform and develop new fixture concepts to maximize the in-store displays and experience.
Work with supplier partners and industry peers to advance sustainability initiatives and elevate the store environment through strategic design, material recommendations, and production processes.
Develop library of materials, photos, and Customer Experiences which can be leveraged to drive forward-thinking STOF designs.
The Essentials of Success:8–10 years of design and/or engineering experience, preferably in retail, with a degree or certification in Industrial Design, Architecture, Environmental Design, or a related field.
Strong knowledge of design principles, materials, construction methods, and retail/brand fixture development; hands-on fabrication experience is a plus.
Advanced proficiency in 3D modeling and rendering software such as SketchUp, Rhino, Vectorworks, Revit, or comparable platforms.
Strong communication, collaboration, and project management skills, with the ability to independently manage multiple priorities, navigate ambiguity, make decisions, and influence cross-functional partners at all levels.
Ability to travel as needed to stores, vendors, and industry events.
At Ulta Beauty (NASDAQ: ULTA), the possibilities are beautiful. Ulta Beauty is the largest North American beauty retailer and the premier beauty destination for cosmetics, fragrance, skin care products, hair care products and salon services. We bring possibilities to life through the power of beauty each and every day in our stores and online with more than 25,000 products from approximately 500 well-established and emerging beauty brands across all categories and price points, including Ulta Beauty's own private label. Ulta Beauty also offers a full-service salon in every store featuring—hair, skin, brow, and make-up services.
We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with arrest records, conviction records, or other criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of any applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York City Fair Chance Act.
