Leader, Pre-Construction

Leader of 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