Manager of space planning and store format

Position Summary

We are seeking a strategic and analytical Manager of Space Planning & Store Format to lead the development, optimization, and execution of store layouts, merchandising space allocation, and format strategies across our growing convenience store network.

This role is responsible for maximizing sales, enhancing the customer experience, and improving operational efficiency through data-driven space planning, category optimization, and innovative store design. The ideal candidate combines strong analytical capabilities with a deep understanding of retail merchandising, shopper behavior, and store operations.

• Lead the development and execution of store layouts, floor plans, planograms, and merchandising standards across the convenience store portfolio.
• Analyze category performance, customer shopping patterns, and sales data to optimize product placement and space allocation.
• Develop and maintain store format strategies for new stores, remodels, and existing locations.
• Partner with Merchandising, Marketing, Operations, and Real Estate teams to ensure store layouts align with business objectives and customer needs.
• Create and manage planograms that maximize sales, profitability, and inventory productivity.
• Evaluate emerging convenience retail trends and recommend enhancements to store formats and merchandising strategies.
• Support new store openings, acquisitions, and remodel projects by providing layout design and merchandising guidance.
• Conduct store visits to assess compliance with merchandising standards and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Utilize space planning software and retail analytics tools to drive informed decision-making.
• Establish key performance metrics to measure the effectiveness of space allocation and store format initiatives.
• Manage and prioritize multiple projects while ensuring timely execution and stakeholder alignment.

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Retail Management, Merchandising, Marketing, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in retail space planning, category management, merchandising, store design, or retail operations.
• Experience working within convenience stores, grocery, drug, mass retail, or related multi-unit retail environments.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales, inventory, and customer data.
• Experience developing planograms and store layouts.
• Proficiency with space planning and merchandising software.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong project management, communication, and collaboration skills.

• Experience supporting large-scale convenience store chains.
• Knowledge of food service, beverage, tobacco, and other core convenience store categories.
• Experience with store remodels, new store development, and retail format innovation.
• Familiarity with JDA, Blue Yonder, Apollo, Nielsen, or similar retail planning tools.

The successful candidate will be:

• Strategic and customer-focused
• Data-driven and highly analytical
• Creative in solving retail merchandising challenges
• Collaborative across multiple departments
• Comfortable balancing long-term planning with day-to-day execution
• Passionate about creating exceptional in-store shopping experiences

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