The Workplaces team is responsible for actively managing adidas’ global real estate portfolio, including leasing and transactions, as well as the planning, construction, and operation of our offices, showrooms, and distribution centers.
As part of this team, the Senior Manager Workplace Design plays a key role in evolving and implementing the adidas Workplace Concept (aWC). The goal is to create spaces and experiences that enhance employee engagement, productivity, and satisfaction. This role will help shape the future of the physical workplace across all business areas, ensuring that our work environments support our people throughout the entire real estate lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
* Contribute to the continuous development of the adidas Workplace Concept (aWC), based on the principles of Arrive, Perform, and Recover.
* Collaborate with regional teams to ensure global alignment in workplace design and support the launch of new projects with consistent standards and practices.
* Measure the success and impact of workplace initiatives on employee engagement and performance.
* Foster Communities of Practice to drive continuous learning and regional involvement in the evolution of the aWC.
* Implement workplace experience strategies, concepts, and rollout plans, including insights from change and activation management.
* Partners with project teams align workplace design with business strategy.
* Position adidas as a “Best Place to Work” by continuously improving workspaces and services using industry data, research, and best practices.
* Develop and support the implementation of spatial and design concepts in markets and regions.
* Ensure workplace safety in line with global and regional requirements.
* Promote data collection and quality in accordance with global standards.
* Create business cases to support investment transparency and KPI tracking.
* Manage performance and contracts of external vendors.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with senior leaders and key stakeholders.
* Stay informed on industry trends through networking and participation in relevant conferences, contributing to knowledge sharing and talent pipeline development.
Key Interfaces
* Global and regional Workplaces teams
* Digital Workplaces & Tech
* HR functions (e.g., HR Strategy, Talent Acquisition, DE&I)
* Brand functions (e.g., Consumer Insights, Brand Design)
* Corporate Communications
* Non-Trade Procurement
* Retail Real Estate Design Team
* Local and global leadership
* Local authorities
* External consultants, project managers, architects, and contractors
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
* Passion for sport and alignment with adidas’ brand values
* Strategic mindset with a strong ability to execute
* Ability to work both creatively and analytically
* Strong design skills in both architecture and interior design, with a focus on brand integration
* Agility in navigating a constantly evolving environment
* Proven ability to work cross-functionally and understand external business drivers
* Track record of delivering complex, multicultural, cross-functional projects
* Deep understanding of the dynamics within a global organization
* High level of employee-centric thinking
* Excellent communication and influencing skills at all levels
* Fluent in English (written and spoken); German is a plus
* Willingness to travel internationally (approx. 25%)
Education & Experience
* Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or equivalent professional experience
* Extensive experience working on global projects and with international teams
* Minimum 5 years of experience in architecture or interior design
* Strong expertise in workplace design and adjacent areas
* Good expertise in retail and showroom design, with brand integration