Gülşah Aydur
Architectural Projects Manager
Istanbul,34
Summary
I am an Architectural Project Manager with extensive experience at Madame Coco, having joined the organization during a 245-store domestic and international operation. Throughout this period, I assumed strategic and operational responsibilities in the successful delivery of 150 domestic concept stores, 65 international concept stores, and 360 pop-up stores, leading a large-scale retail operation totaling 820 stores. I possess deep expertise in interior architectural design, quantity take-offs and cost management, as well as end-to-end project management.
I bring strong capabilities in managing multidisciplinary teams, effectively coordinating complex and fast-paced project processes, and ensuring the consistent and sustainable implementation of brand standards on a global scale. With a strategic mindset, proven proficiency in resource and budget optimization, and a results-driven problem-solving approach, I consistently achieve measurable success in operational efficiency, schedule control, and quality performance. I am recognized for my trustworthy leadership style, prioritizing team development and fostering high-performing, collaborative work environments.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Architectural Project Manager
Madame Coco
İstanbul, Istanbul
02.2023 - Current
- Led the end-to-end opening processes of 50 concept stores domestically, ensuring delivery in line with budget, timelines, and brand standards.
- Successfully completed large-scale store transformation projects as follows:
In 2023, converted 45 stores with legacy facades to the new concept and 25 stores with legacy interior designs to the new interior concept.
In 2024, converted 20 stores with legacy facades and 20 stores with legacy interior designs to the new concept. - Completed the concept development, design, implementation, and operational infrastructure setup of the new pop-up store concept developed as of June 2024.
- Planned and managed the opening processes of 360 pop-up stores through the end of 2025 following the rollout of the new concept.
- Ensured cross-functional, multi-disciplinary coordination across Leasing, Architecture, Sales Operations, Procurement, Logistics, Marketing, Visual Merchandising, and Finance teams for pop-up projects.
- Improved operational efficiency in fast-paced pop-up projects by establishing standardized application details and process workflows.
- Managed the opening processes of 25 international stores across multiple countries under franchise and corporate business models, acting as the key liaison between head office teams and international partners.
- Evaluated project progress against established goals regularly, implementing corrective actions when necessary to keep tasks on track.
- Ensured accuracy of construction documents by thoroughly reviewing drawings, specifications, and schedules prior to submission for permitting or bidding purposes.
- Delivered successful projects within tight deadlines by utilizing advanced project management tools and techniques.
- Provided managerial support to senior management through regular reporting on CapEx, project progress performance, and procurement processes.
- Prepared project-based forecast budgets as well as monthly and annual budget reports.
- Led team management, task allocation, and prioritization, ensuring continuity and consistent quality standards across multiple concurrent projects.
Architectural Project Executive
Madame Coco
Istanbul, Istanbul
01.2021 - 02.2023
- Managed the opening processes of 70 domestic stores, ensuring timely delivery and full compliance with brand standards.
- Completed the redesign and implementation of 28 existing stores, transitioning them from the old concept to the new store concept.
- Coordinated all phases of store projects, including design development, concept implementation, approval processes, tender management, and procurement.
- Enhanced operational efficiency by maintaining an optimal balance between time, budget, and quality throughout project execution.
- Led the opening processes of 30 international stores across 15 countries under both franchise and corporate business models.
- Ensured effective coordination between head office teams, field teams, and international partners in line with local regulations and country-specific practices.
- Managed tendering and supplier processes in multi-stakeholder projects, achieving cost control and procurement optimization.
- Enhanced inside communication satisfaction by streamlining communication channels and improving response times.
- Developed innovative solutions to complex problems, resulting in improved organizational performance.
- Mentored junior staff members for accelerated career growth, developing future leaders within the organization.
- Interviewed, recruited and trained new onboarding candidates.
- Enhanced operational efficiency by streamlining workflow processes across multiple departments.
- Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously, preventing delays in opening schedules and improving overall project delivery timelines.
- Provided regular reports to senior management, ensuring transparency in project progress, budget utilization, and overall processes.
Interior Designer
Madame Coco
Istanbul, Istanbul
09.2019 - 01.2021
- Managed the end-to-end opening processes of 20 stores across Turkey.
- Led concept development, design, approval, tendering, and procurement processes for retail stores, ensuring full compliance and execution.
- Designed floor plans, elevations, 3D perspective views, and material boards for review and presentation.
- Developed comprehensive design concepts through sketches, renderings, and 3D models.
- Conducted site visits to gather the necessary information for the successful execution of projects.
- Prepared product and layout documents implementing diverse design concepts.
- Managed the opening processes of 25 stores across 10 different countries under both franchise and corporate models.
- Coordinated international projects by navigating local regulations, country-specific practices, and supplier management.
- Established effective communication and coordination between head office teams, field teams, suppliers, and international business partners, ensuring projects were delivered on time and in line with brand standards.
- Successfully completed the Head Office relocation, including project process management, procurement procedures, and move-in organization.
Decoration Editor
Madame Coco
Istanbul, Istanbul
11.2017 - 09.2019
- Worked as a Decoration Editor within the corporate magazine team, actively involved in content creation, copy editing, and publication processes.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality editorial work.
- Kept up-to-date on industry trends and emerging topics to ensure the relevancy of published materials.
- Conducted market research to identify emerging trends, guiding editorial direction.
- Developed and managed styling processes for e-commerce, product, and social media photo shoots.
- Led location and styling processes for social media video productions.
- Took part in the planning, concept development, and execution of the brand’s studio product photo shoots.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Interior Architecture & Environmental Design (en.)
İstanbul Kadir Has Üniversitesi
Istanbul, Turkey06-2018
Skills
Interior design
Site analysis
Space planning
Cost estimation
Scheduling coordination
3D visualization
Team Leadership & Development
Vendor Management
Additional Information
- Multi-Location Retail Architectural Project Management
- Concept Store & Pop-Up Store Design and Rollout
- Interior Architecture, Store Design & Brand Experience
- End-to-End Store Opening, Renovation & Refurbishment Projects
- Domestic & International Retail Projects and Vendor Management
- Project Scheduling, Timeline Control & Store Opening Coordination
- Cross-Functional, Multidisciplinary Team Leadership
- Process Optimization, Operational Efficiency & Continuous Improvement
Timeline
Architectural Project Manager
Madame Coco
02.2023 - Current
Architectural Project Executive
Madame Coco
01.2021 - 02.2023
Interior Designer
Madame Coco
09.2019 - 01.2021
Decoration Editor
Madame Coco
11.2017 - 09.2019
Bachelor of Arts - Interior Architecture & Environmental Design (en.)
İstanbul Kadir Has Üniversitesi
Interests
Tennis, Art, Drama, Swimming, Traveling
References
Will be provided upon request