Design Director - Workplace Interiors

Description

• Client Engagement & Development: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and objectives to deliver compelling design solutions. Act as the primary point of contact for major projects, ensuring clear communication and satisfaction. Partner closely with studio and office leadership to pursue projects with new and existing clients. The ideal candidate will have experience with business development and meeting revenue targets.
• Creative Direction: Oversee design projects from concept through execution, ensuring that our designs are innovative, impactful, and aligned with the firm’s high standards. Mentor and inspire the design team to explore new ideas and concepts. The ideal candidate will have significant experience working in the conceptual design phase.
• Leadership & Strategy: Provide visionary leadership for the design team, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Develop and implement strategic design initiatives that align with client goals and business objectives.
• Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with other communities within the firm, including practice area/subject matter experts, client relationship leaders, and regional leadership, to integrate various perspectives into the design process and enhance the overall project delivery.
• Mentor, Coach and Support Growth: Guide designers in discovering their strengths, mentor and coach to enhance and develop design skills. Provide open communication, active listening, and thoughtful questioning to unleash the potential of talent and teams within our People First culture.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure all design deliverables are of exceptional quality and meet the firm’s standards for creativity, aesthetics, and functionality. Conduct regular reviews and provide constructive feedback to the design team.

Requirements

• NCIDQ certified or Licensed Architect
• Strong understanding of design principles, user experience, and project management methodologies.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in design, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within a large or renowned commercial design firm.
• LEED Accreditation preferred
• Bachelor’s degree in Design, Architecture, or Interior Architecture
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to articulate design concepts and decisions effectively to clients and teams.
• Proven track record of delivering successful, innovative design outcomes for workplace interiors that have had a significant impact on client satisfaction and business growth.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Exceptional portfolio showcasing a variety of design projects, highlighting innovative approaches and successful client solutions.

Benefits

• This role is not remote or hybrid; we look forward to working with our new Design Director in our dynamic Chicago office.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance