Director – Design & Construction

Some of what you will do:

The Director, Construction and Engineering, has ownership and accountability for the design, construction, fixture and engineering teams. Partner with the VP, Design, Construction and Asset Management to develop the strategy for the construction and engineering teams and will lead the full execution of the strategy for all enterprise assets (Retail and Closed Door). Will lead construction and engineering procurement activities and participate in vendor management with a focus on meeting budget and timeline requirements.   

This is individual is responsible for the strategy inclusive of creation and execution of Engineering and Maintenance processes and functions in our Closed-Door locations (Staples Professional and SC FCs, Hubs, Depots).

This role is also responsible for Real Estate and Facilities Services issues from time to time, partnering with others as required.

Specifically, You Will:

Program Leadership - 45%

• Partner on the creation of and lead the execution of the construction, design and engineering strategy and related initiatives, in consideration of business priorities and objectives. 

• Consult with leaders from across the company to understand objectives and timelines, crafting strategy to meet the needs of the business; surface concerns and make recommendations for adjustments as required.

• Oversee an annual assigned capital program and ensure all projects are completed on time, on budget and to Staples standards.

• Manage design, construction and engineering of all small, mid, and large-scale projects including Transformation initiatives, Technology expansions, major renovations and all new stores and ensure completion on time, to budget and to Staples enterprise standards.

• Prioritize workflow and initiatives of multiple projects running simultaneously, design short- and long-term project plans, pivoting as required and partner with all relevant parties to ensure the least amount of disruption to plan.

• Oversee and provide leadership to third party construction services to meet pace and scale requirements.

• Resolve issues that are capital project related – including design issues i.e. retrofitting existing building for Staples format, real estate issues i.e. store layout issues, and construction related issues.

• Lead the development and refinement of processes, looking for efficiencies (time, resource, budget).

• Handle Schedule’ C’ lease negotiations with landlords with back-up from the VP, as needed.

• Oversee tender and bid process for all construction and engineering related needs.

• Value engineering spends on projects to ensure strategy execution.

• Liaise with landlords, tenant representatives, contractors, construction consultants, engineers, and store management. 

Supervision and People Development - 45%

• Provide leadership, coaching and management of Construction Team, design team, fixturing team, engineering and maintenance teams. 

• Oversee team training and development, including ensuring all associates are compliant on legislatively required training and/or certification.

• Assess performance and complete performance reviews. 

• Lead recruitment for team as required. 

• Partner with Human Resources on any performance related issues. 

Other Responsibilities – 10%

• Lead the creation and revision of policies and procedures for the Construction team and Store Development team and facilities management team as required.

• Resolve other complex issues that are capital project or Real Estate Dept related – Real Estate issues, Construction issues and Facilities issues.

Some of what you need:

• Minimum 7-10 years of progressively responsible construction and engineering experience is essential and retail construction experience is preferred.

• Post-Secondary education required in a related field.

• Project Management Certificate is an asset.

• Proven organizational, team building and business knowledge.

• Strong understanding of building codes, building systems and materials and methods of construction. 

• Demonstrated understanding of Industry standards and practices.

• Strong ability to negotiate and influence others.

• Strong computer skills including Windows, MS Office and AutoCAD.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication and project management skills.

• Good understanding of Health & Safety regulations.

• Able to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities.

• Able to communicate in French preferred but not essential.

• Demonstrated ability to lead others remotely.

• Ability to understand AutoCAD documentation.

Physical demands/working conditions:

• Work in a general office environment and construction sites, this role will be exposed at times to conditions and the potential hazards of a construction zone

• Able to travel across Canada when required – travel 30% to 50% of the time. 

• Safe driving record and access to a vehicle.

• Able to work flexible schedule to meet project demands.

Some of what you will get:

• Associate discount

• Health and Dental benefits

• RRSP/DPSP

• Performance bonuses

• Learning & Development programs

• And more...