Wayfair Outlet Store Launch- (Contract) Project Manager

This is a 6 month contingent contract, with potential to be extended based on business needs.

Who we are

The Wayfair Outlet Team is redefining the way we monetize returned goods and aged inventory across the network. We are investing in physical retail Wayfair Outlet stores to sell imperfect items directly to customers. Wayfair has successfully piloted physical retail outlet stores and anticipates opening an additional 3-4 stores in 2025, and up to 50 within the next three years. 

In this role you will manage on-site project execution for new outlet launches, including schedule development, issue resolution, and stakeholder coordination. The right candidate has 3-5 years of relevant experience, strong problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills. 

Note: This is not a technical construction role

Location: This position involves average of 80% travel. As such, candidates may reside anywhere within the United States, provided they are within a reasonable distance of a major airport.

What you’ll do

• Serve as the on-site Project Manager for new store openings during the build-out phase, including pre-launch activities like permitting, approvals, and store readiness.
• Develop and execute launch schedules based on anticipated Landlord and Tenant work, inspections, and freight.
• Identify, communicate, and resolve issues that could impact store launch dates.
• Liaise with external organizations such as sign vendors, city permitting, and general contractors, and coordinate with internal cross-functional teams (IT, Security, Store Operations) for space readiness.
• Ensure Wayfair's compliance with all aspects of new site openings prior to launch, escalating when a launch date is at risk.
• Coordinate all aspects of exterior signage, including vendor selection, onboarding, meeting lease sign requirements, and obtaining Landlord approval for renderings.
• Oversee new location setup (signage, General Contractor work), permitting, and certifications before handing off to the operational launch team.
• Ensure adherence to budgets and project processes.
• Support efforts to identify potential new sites, including diligence visits to determine required project budgets.
• Manage multiple new store openings simultaneously and ensure timely launches.
• Create progress update reports.

What you’ll need

• 3-5 years of experience in scheduling, coordinating, project planning, or launch experience in retail, restaurants, or commercial offices.
• Proven ability to solve problems quickly and cost-effectively.
• Ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks, and maintain efficiency 
• Strong organizational, project management, multitasking, and resource planning skills with attention to detail.
• Analytical skills for strategy development, risk identification, and budget evaluation.
• Proficiency in Google Suite.
• Understanding of retail business opening requirements (permitting, legal compliance).
• Success in developing stakeholder/vendor relationships for project execution.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, judgment, and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to travel approximately 80% of the time, domestically and internationally.

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of municipal requirements or how to determine local requirements.
• Ability to read drawings.