STORE PLANNING SPECIALIST

DescriptionThe Store Planning Specialist leads the end‐to‐end execution of new store openings, remodels, and major store initiatives across the US and Canada. This role is responsible for ensuring all pre‐opening, opening, and post‐opening activities are completed accurately, on time, and in alignment with Wild Fork standards.Working cross‐functionally with Construction, IT, Asset Protection, Marketing, Procurement, Supply Chain, eCommerce, Training, and Field Operations, the Store Planning Specialist acts as the primary owner of store readiness and operational handoff. This position requires strong project management skills, clear communication, and the ability to lead teams through complex, fast‐paced store launches.This position reports to the Operations Support Manager .At Wild Fork, we are guided by our core values of Determination, Simplicity, Availability, Humility, Sincerity, Discipline, and Ownership . The ideal candidate is a culture ambassador who leads by example and supports the company's mission, vision, and continued growth.Essential Tasks and ResponsibilitiesLead all aspects of assigned store projects from construction handoff through post‐opening stabilizationOwn the operational transition from Construction to Operations, ensuring readiness across all functional areasCoordinate and follow up on execution and delivery from internal teams and external vendorsLead store readiness activities, including:Punch lists and operational checklistsStore setup, cleanliness, fixture placement, and supply readinessBack‐of‐house and customer‐facing area readinessCoordinate and lead store training efforts, including:POS, SAP, product knowledge, eCommerce, HR, safety, and emergency protocolsEnsure inventory readiness, including:Pre‐open inventory planningCycle countsMaintaining target in‐stock levels (97%)Oversee planogram execution in-store and freezer areasVerify completion of all required inspections, permits, and licenses prior to openingIdentify, document, and communicate project risks, issues, and corrective actions to leadershipDeliver clear and timely project status updates to stakeholders and executive leadership, including key milestones such as possession date, pre‐opening, grand opening, and post‐openingOversee and coordinate regional floating team members supporting store projectsLeverage Store Support Leaders (SSLs) to support pre‐opening and readiness tasksProcess improvement & standardization of store opening playbooksPost‐opening performance reviews & lessons learnedKPI tracking for opening readiness, delays, or cost variancesSupport for new formats, pilots, or operational innovationTravel up to 80%, including weekends and store operating hours as requiredPerform additional duties as needed to support store operations and company growthQualificationsBachelor's degree in Business Management or related field preferred4+ years of experience in retail, hospitality, restaurant, operations, or project managementExperience supporting store openings, remodels, or large‐scale projects preferredProficiency with Microsoft 365 (Excel, Teams, Outlook); familiarity with Smartsheet a plusExposure to construction or store build‐out processes preferredStrong organizational, problem‐solving, and analytical skillsExcellent communication skills with the ability to present updates to diverse stakeholdersDemonstrated ability to manage timelines, priorities, and budgetsAbility to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and extended hours during openingsCulture ambassador who leads with integrity, respect, ownership, and teamworkEOE/Vets/Disability#J-18808-Ljbffr