Installations Director

Futures are partnering with the UK’s premier designer, manufacturer and installer of Window Displays, Retail Furniture and Merchandising Décor as the business continues it’s global expansion from its base in Stevenage, Hertfordshire.

With an exciting customer base that includes high end retail giants like Harrods, John Lewis, Apple and Luis Vitton, this represents a unique opportunity for an interior fit out specialist to work with the world’s top brands, on unique, bespoke installations.

We are seeking someone with a proven track record – preferably within the high end retail space. You will play a role in the end to end process of survey, design, production and installation, bringing together a wide array of internal and external specialists, designers, logistics experts, production operative and installers. You will be charged with creating and then enforcing a uniformed installation process that can be replicated across the company’s global sites – this includes Italy, the USA, Dubai and China. You will be providing high end clients with a first class installation service that works around their business needs, and you will continue the drive for excellence across the global business, improving quality and safety standards, customer service levels, reducing snagging issues and post installation concerns, whilst managing multiple programmes simultaneously.

If this sounds like a great fit for your own skill set, experience and ambitions for the future… read on!

Installations Director - Position Summary - Window Displays, Retail Furniture, Merchandising Decor

The Installation Director is a strategic leadership position responsible for overseeing the execution of complex installation projects, including high-end pop-ups, permanent shop fit-outs, bespoke joinery interiors, and luxury retail display projects. This role requires an experienced professional with a strong track record of managing intricate installations for high-profile clients, ensuring the highest standards of quality, precision, and safety. The Installation Director will lead the end-to-end process, from planning and budgeting to execution and client management, while ensuring seamless communication and collaboration across all internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Installation Strategy & Planning

• Develop and implement comprehensive strategies for successfully delivering all installation projects, aligning with company objectives and client expectations.
• Establish and refine project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation processes to maximise efficiency and quality.
• Forecast project timelines and resource needs, ensuring that all installations are completed to specification, on schedule, and within budget.

2. Project Management

• Direct and oversee all installation activities, from pre-production meetings to final handover, ensuring every detail aligns with the high-end nature of the projects.
• Direct and manage simultaneous projects, maintaining visibility over all key milestones and proactively addressing any potential issues.
• Coordinate with internal teams (design, production, technical, logistics, installation leads) and external partners (subcontractors, suppliers) to ensure a smooth execution of installations.

3. Quality Assurance

• Define and uphold stringent quality standards that reflect the luxury nature of the projects and client expectations.
• Conduct regular site inspections to ensure that installations are completed with precision and attention to detail.
• Implement quality control measures and snag management processes to ensure flawless delivery and final client sign-off.
• Address any discrepancies or issues identified in the surveys, working closely with production and technical teams to implement corrective actions before and during installation.

4. Survey Coordination

• Develop a standardised survey process and guidelines to ensure consistency in information and reporting across all projects.
• Lead site surveys with the project and technical teams to capture precise measurements, document existing conditions and identify logistical challenges.
• Analyse survey information to inform project planning, design adjustments, and resource allocation.
• Communicate survey findings to all relevant stakeholders, ensuring that site-specific conditions are fully integrated into the production and installation strategy.

5. Health & Safety Compliance

• Develop and enforce health and safety protocols in line with regulations and industry best practices.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure that all installations are compliant with safety standards.
• Oversee the preparation and submission of Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) for all project installations.
• Integrate survey data into health and safety planning to ensure that all on-site conditions and risks are fully understood and mitigated

6. Leadership & Department Development

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of project managers, supervisors, and installers, promoting a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Develop training and development programs to enhance the skill set and performance of the installation team.
• Set clear performance expectations, conduct regular reviews, and provide actionable feedback to drive individual and team growth.

7. Client & Stakeholder Management

• Facilitate meetings and site visits with clients, ensuring they are kept informed and satisfied with the progress and quality of the installation.

8. Financial

• Manage project budgets, monitor financial performance, and identify cost savings and efficiency improvement opportunities.
• Negotiate rates with suppliers and subcontractors, ensuring that costs are controlled without compromising quality or service.
• Prepare financial reports and forecasts for senior management, providing insights on project profitability and financial outcomes.

9. Board Reporting & Strategic Recommendations

• Prepare and present detailed project performance reports to the Board of Directors, highlighting key achievements, financial results, and strategic insights.
• Develop and present recommendations to improve project efficiency, quality, and profitability.

Installations Director - Skills and Experience - Window Displays, Retail Furniture, Merchandising Decor

• Extensive Installation Experience: Proven track record in multiple managing complex, high-end installation projects, ideally within the luxury retail or high-end commercial sector.
• Leadership & Team Management: Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team of internal and external resources.
• Project Management Expertise: Proficient in project planning, scheduling, and resource management, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to foresee and mitigate risks.
• Quality & Safety Standards: In-depth knowledge of health and safety regulations, quality assurance processes, and industry standards.
• Client Relationship Management: Experience working with high-profile clients, managing expectations, and delivering exceptional service and quality.
• Financial: Strong financial management skills, with experience in budget control, cost forecasting, and reporting.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

Installations Director, Window Displays, Retail Furniture, Merchandising Decor

If this role could appeal please do apply now!