Director of Store Development

About Cozy Earth

Cozy Earth ranks among the fastest growing companies nationwide, noted as #299 on the Inc. 5000 list. We specialize in premium home luxury and apparel, offering exceptionally soft, temperature-regulating bedding, sleepwear, loungewear, and bath products. Our brand is uniquely recognized, having earned a spot on "Oprah's Favorite Things" for seven consecutive years across five distinct product categories, reflecting our commitment to quality and innovation.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Director of Store Development to spearhead the physical realization of the Cozy Earth brand through accelerated retail expansion. This leadership role commands responsibility for the complete lifecycle of store development—from initial design through construction and opening—ensuring projects are delivered timely, within budget, and aligned with brand standards. This position serves as a key connector between creative concepts and tangible execution in the built environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire store development process, managing design, architecture, permitting, construction, remodels, store refreshes, and the debut of new locations to ensure on-schedule and on-budget delivery.
• Define and uphold brand consistency across all physical outlets by collaborating with internal departments to guarantee that each store embodies Cozy Earth's customer experience and standards.
• Coordinate with Retail, Finance, Creative teams, and external vendors to establish clear project scope, schedules, and financial plans.
• Work closely with the VP of Retail and real estate partners conducting site assessments, leasing due diligence, and evaluating retail opportunities for strategic decision-making.
• Create scalable workflows, project schedules, and vendor partnerships enabling swift expansion and consistent store rollouts.
• Manage project budgets with keen oversight on cost efficiencies and value-engineering, monitoring expenditures across all active developments.
• Maintain strong vendor relationships including general contractors, architects, engineers, and fixture suppliers; negotiate contracts and enforce compliance with deadlines, budgetary limits, and quality benchmarks.
• Handle procurement of fixtures, furniture, lighting, millwork, and finishes balancing quality, delivery timelines, and cost optimization.
• Review architectural plans and construction documents to assure compliance with brand standards, operational needs, ADA regulations, and local building codes.
• Simultaneously manage multiple initiatives including capital improvements, remodels, and store refresh projects within existing locations and company properties.
• Partner with Retail Operations and Visual Merchandising to confirm smooth store openings and seamless transition from construction to daily operations.
• Serve as the primary liaison for all construction and development processes providing regular progress reports, risk assessments, and budget updates to senior leadership while fostering strategic partnerships to support nationwide growth.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum 8 years of experience in retail store development, construction management, architecture, or related areas.
• Preferred bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Real Estate, Engineering, Interior Design, Business, or related fields.
• Proven track record leading retail projects including new builds, remodels, and refreshes in specialty, premium, or lifestyle brand environments.
• Strong collaborative skills to work cross-functionally with Retail, Finance, Creative, Operations teams, and external vendors.
• Proficiency in managing budgets, contract negotiation, and ensuring vendor accountability on schedules, quality, and deliverables.
• Excellent project management capabilities and familiarity with construction software platforms.
• Working knowledge of permitting, landlord interactions, local building codes, and ADA compliance across different markets.
• Experience juggling multiple concurrent projects in a dynamic, entrepreneurial, and fast-growing setting.
• Effective communication skills for presenting project status, risks, and strategic advice to senior executives and various stakeholders.
• Entrepreneurial mindset capable of navigating ambiguity, prioritizing tasks effectively, and establishing scalable systems.
• Willingness and ability to travel to store sites for site selection, surveys, ongoing construction, and new openings.
• Preference for experience within luxury, premium, or lifestyle brands.

Employee Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage aimed at supporting health and wellness.
• 401(k) plan designed to help secure financial futures.
• Flexible paid time off policy to foster work-life balance and personal rest.
• Monthly self-care allowance to promote overall employee well-being.
• Access to exclusive discounts on Cozy Earth products.

Diversity and Inclusion

Cozy Earth is proud to be an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment that celebrates diversity.