Leader, Pre-Construction

RH is seeking a Leader of Pre-Construction to oversee Gallery development and construction projects, from conceptual budgeting through GC Contract negotiation. This role is instrumental in ensuring every project reflects RH's uncompromising standards of design, quality, and precision. The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with strategic thinking, playing a critical role in determining project feasibility, constructibility, pricing strategy and cost controls across a range of projects.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work with in-house and third-party development teams to establish realistic construction budgets to validate financial assumptions and identify cost-saving opportunities
• Prepare detailed quantity take-offs and cost estimates throughout early design phases, solicit and analyze General Contractor estimates
• Identify and qualify general contractors (GCs) in local markets for both new construction and renovation projects.
• Write, issue, and manage General Contractor Request for Proposals (RFP's) ensuring clarity of scope, schedule, and project expectations
• Track, analyze, and level GC proposals and lead the GC interview process, providing clear recommendations based on cost, scope, and value
• Lead the negotiation and execution of Letters of Intent (LOIs), GC Contracts, and final pricing agreements
• Create and manage detailed project schedules aligned with overall development timelines
• Review prototypical construction details and provide input to ensure constructability and compliance with design intent
• Recommend and validate value engineering opportunities without compromising RH's aesthetic and quality standards
• Review project leases and work letters with particular attention to landlord deliverables, contributions, and obligations

OUR REQUIREMENTS

• 5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating, pre-construction, and/or project management, preferably within luxury, retail, and/or hospitality sectors; experience in ground-up, adaptive reuse, and historic renovations a plus.
• Proven expertise in GC sourcing, RFP management, contract negotiation, and budget development and control
• Strong understanding of construction methods, scheduling, and cost
• Interpret design and construction l drawings, documents, specifications, and Lease work letters
• Excellent organizational, communication, and negotiation skills with a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset
• Proficient in project management and estimating software (e.g., MS Project and MS Office Suite)
• A commitment to quality, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, design-driven environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Occasional travel for site visits, vendor engagement, and project oversight
• Spends time in construction sites, retail galleries, and properties under development
• Frequent standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to handle objects, tools, or controls
• Frequent reaching with hands and arms; occasional climbing, kneeling, or crouching
• Occasional lifting or moving of objects
• Visual tasks may include close vision, distance vision, color differentiation, peripheral vision, and depth perception
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally
• Comfortable wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhering to all job site safety standards