The Oldest Fine Leather Goods House in the World
Founded in 1829, Delvaux is a truly Belgian brand. In fact, it was even born before the Kingdom of Belgium, which was only established one year later, in 1830.
Created in Brussels by the innovative Charles Delvaux, la Maison has remained at the forefront of luxury leather goods for nearly two centuries because of its savoir-faire, uncompromising craftsmanship and the outstanding quality of its creations.
Delvaux Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0j0zMebgbI
MAIN PURPOSE
Responsible for defining, leading, and executing Delvaux’s VMD strategy across all channels in Japan—including Direct-operated Boutiques, Pop-ups, and High-End Events (e.g., Gaisho events).
This role requires a strategic, commercially driven, and hands-on senior VMD professional capable of translating global brand vision into locally impactful retail and spatial experiences. The candidate will take complete ownership of spatial planning—from reading and designing directly from raw architectural floor plans to final on-site execution—ensuring the highest visual standards, brand storytelling, and delivering profitable business growth.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
➢ Event, Pop-Up & Special Project Leadership (Gaisho & High-End Events)
- Spatial & Layout Planning: Lead the spatial design and layout strategy for special projects (Pop-ups, Gaisho events, Trunk Shows, and BTQ Openings/Renewals) by creating 2D/3D display concepts directly from raw architectural floor plans.
- End-to-End Project Management: Direct the complete operational VMD flow for events—from concept development and technical drawing approvals to vendor negotiation, on-site setup, and teardown.
- Immersive Experience Design: Partner with Retail, Marketing, and Event teams to design immersive spatial experiences aligned with commercial goals and VIC/high-net-worth client expectations.
➢ Commercial Awareness & Budget Management:
- Sales Alignment: Keep informed of retail sales trends and focus products, proactively adjusting in-store displays to support commercial goals and drive product rotation.
- Budget Management & Cost Efficiency: Manage the VMD budget conscientiously, ensuring high luxury standards while maintaining cost-conscious production and procurement.
- Display Review & Improvement: Review the impact and feedback of major store setups and event displays to continuously refine future VMD executions.
➢ Strategic VMD, HQ Localization & Window Strategy:
- Strategic Localization: Interpret global HQ directives and strategically adapt them to suit Japan’s unique retail environment, consumer behaviors, and store architecture.
- Window & In-Store Direction: Oversee, approve, and direct seasonal window displays and in-store merchandising across all Japanese stores, including remote guidance for regional boutiques.
➢ Executive Stakeholder Management & Retail Empowerment:
- Boutique Staff Coaching: Act as a mentor to boutique staff, delivering structured VMD training programs to instill brand aesthetics, display logic, and storytelling across all touchpoints.
- Vendor & Supply Chain Oversight: Build and manage strong relationships with display vendors, production agencies, and props suppliers to guarantee high-quality execution and timely delivery.
- Cross-Functional Alignment & Collaboration: Partner with MD teams, Retail teams, and Boutique members to develop VMD execution plans aligned with sales goals and promotional calendars. Clearly articulate VMD logic and design concepts to internal stakeholders to build consensus and drive projects forward smoothly.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
➢ Experience & Background
- 3-5 years of VMD experience in luxury fashion or high-end retail, with extensive multi-channel experience (Boutiques, Department Stores, Pop-ups, and Gaisho Events).
- Proven track record of designing spatial layouts directly from architectural floor plans and managing end-to-end event execution.
- Deep knowledge of the Japanese luxury retail landscape, department store processes, and high-net-worth client behaviors.
➢ Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Spatial Design, Store Design, or Visual Merchandising.
➢ Technical & Software Skills
- Design & Graphics: Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, Photoshop).
- Business Tools: Advanced presentation and analysis skills using MS PowerPoint and Excel.
- Blueprint & Architectural Literacy: Ability to read, interpret, and plan spatial layouts directly from raw architectural floor plans and construction drawings.
➢ Competencies
- Strong commercial mindset with the ability to link VM execution to financial outcomes.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative mindset and a proven ability to build strong, trust-based relationships with both boutique staff and office cross-functional partners.
➢ Languages
- Native-level Japanese (essential for local vendor and department store negotiation).
- Business Fluent English (essential for communicating with Global HQ and Senior Leadership).