Project Manager, Outlet Store Openings - Wayfair

Must be located in the US and willing to travel ~80% of the time, domestically and internationally.

At this time, Wayfair does not provide sponsorship for employment authorization for this position.

The Global Returns and Incidents Team is redefining the way we monetize imperfect inventory across the network. To increase our monetization of imperfect products, we are investing in new business channels to sell imperfect items directly to customers. Wayfair has successfully piloted physical retail outlet stores and anticipates opening an additional 5-10 stores in 2024, and up to 50 within the next three years.  Simultaneously, we are standardizing our launch and operational processes. 

In this role you will lead the Project Management Office (PMO) for the launch of the outlet stores (and other New Channels vehicles for monetization) and scaling operational processes. The right candidate has both project management experience, business acumen, and the ability to identify efficient processes in preparation for scaling at large. 

What you’ll do

• Serve as the Project Manager for outlet launches, and other new business channels as they are discovered
• Balance multiple projects (such as site launches) simultaneously and ensuring timely openings
• Develop, maintain, and monitor a Project Plan and follow up with project team members to set and meet objectives and deadlines
• Liaise with many cross functional internal and external organizations (such as Wayfair Real Estate, external brokers, Tech, General Contractors, Marketing, Talent Management, etc.) to ensure all aspects of a building opening are considered
• Ensure Wayfair is compliant with all aspects of opening a new site prior to launch, escalating as appropriate when a launch date is at risk
• Serve as the onsite point of contact for pre-launch activities like permitting, approvals, and store readiness; launch weeks, and post-launch activities as needed
• Support efforts to identify potential new sites such as visiting new locations, and then rationalizing those locations through analysis and conveying recommendations to the business
• Support large scale process changes by identifying and standardizing outlet launch and store operations for scale, working with and directing cross functional partners to execute
• Responsible for new location set up (signage, General Contractor store improvement work), permitting and certifications prior to hand off to the operational launch team
• Ensure adherence to budgets and project processes
• Create reports for senior managers and stakeholders regarding progress updates

What you’ll need

• Strong organizational, project management skills, attention to detail, and ability to multitask and plan resources
• General analytical skills to define strategies, identify risks, and evaluate budgets
• Proficient Google Suite and experience using Airtable or a digital Project Management tool is preferred
• Awareness of what’s required to open a retail business (permitting, general legal compliance, etc.) to help drive action items against deadlines
• Track record of success developing relationships with stakeholders, working collaboratively and leveraging influence to execute highly cross-functional projects
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong critical thinking skills and problem solving skills to navigate complex ambiguity
• Ability to draw standardized solutions in preparation for scaling
• Good judgment and decision making skills
• Ability to travel ~80% of the time, domestically and internationally