Sept. 7, 2023

Construction is on track for Dillard’s to open in the spring at The Empire Mall.

“Things are coming along really well,” district manager Mark Galvan said. “We’re on track, and I think they found a receptive help in working with the city, so things are going on the construction front.”

The 140,000-square-foot store fills the anchor space off the food court vacated by Younkers — and then some.

Dillard’s is adding 40,000 square feet to reach that footprint “because we just feel like more square footage will be necessary,” Galvan said.

“We’re not looking at this as an entry (to the market) type of store. We’re looking at this as an advanced store.”

Expect “elevated product” and some higher-end brands that might surprise shoppers, he said.

“We’re optimistic about this,” Galvan said. “After my two visits, I am even more excited.”

He represents eight states for Arkansas-based Dillard’s and acknowledges not knowing much about Sioux Falls when it was announced as a new market.

“After visiting, I was just blown away,” he said. “I found it to be a really fashionable city. Casual fashion. As we went out to eat and visited with people, I was really impressed.”

Initial communication around hiring has started, Galvan said. Dillard’s will have a booth at Saturday’s Sidewalk Arts Festival, for instance, to provide information about the department store and start to answer questions.

“We’ve had several people inquire (about jobs), which is fantastic,” he said. “We’ll be making some offers as it gets closer.”

Top leadership roles will come from within Dillard’s and have drawn interest, he added.

But several salaried area sales manager positions will be open both to internal and external candidates. He estimates the store will need more than 100 employees.

“We bring in some part time, but we primarily hire full time,” Galvan said. “We’re looking for long-term fashion professionals. Our vision is to have more individuals who are looking for a long-term career in fashion versus someone looking for a seasonal or six-month employment.”

The department store will host informal meet-and-greet events this fall, with hiring ramping up in January and early February, he said.

While the opening date hasn’t been confirmed, the goal is early spring.

Those interested in learning more about career opportunities can send an email to [email protected].

“We’re very grassroots,” Galvan said. “Clearly, we’re a corporate entity, that’s no secret, but we try to talk with people individually and have real conversations.”