Design Manager (Wayfinding & Interpretation)

Description

The Design Manager will play a pivotal role in supporting leadership with effective project management and delivery, connecting strategic direction with the delivery of operational and design excellence. Acting as a key interface between team members, global ASPECT studios, internal stakeholders, and clients, this role will enable high-quality design outcomes through effective coordination, thoughtful collaboration, and contribution to business development and submissions.

The Design Manager will mentor team members, refine systems and processes, and strengthen design culture to elevate both project outcomes and team engagement, as well as write and compile wayfinding bids, build and maintain customer relationships, and contribute to studio and commercial management. The role demands strong organisational capability, calm and confident leadership, design literacy, and a collaborative approach with a diverse range of stakeholders. The role also encompasses fostering team cohesion, managing personal workload effectively, and prioritising tasks to ensure outcomes are delivered to the highest standard.

Requirements

Only applications from Australian Citizens, permanent residents or long-term visa holders are eligible for appointment.

Our team believes in the importance of creating a studio environment where an openness to new ideas and collaboration sits in partnership with deep knowledge and expertise.

• Ability to effectively manage your time, and team member time to ensure assigned tasks are completed efficiently and on time.
• Thorough understanding of design for the built environment and project processes, including program, resourcing and briefing.
• Project-based commercial and Quality Assurance understanding.
• Strong learning and mentoring culture, and more.
• Experience in ensuring projects meet design excellence, timelines, and budget expectations.
• A minimum of 6+ years industry experience.
• Ability to manage teams and coordinate across disciplines.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading environmental, signage, wayfinding, and user experience design projects, with proven knowledge and experience in wayfinding and multidisciplinary design environments.
• Exceptional stakeholder and project management skills.
• A degree in graphic design, landscape architecture, architecture, urban design or related design field.
• Proficiency in Office 365 suite and Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Ability to manage client relationships and coordinating multiple projects with internal teams including supporting and mentoring team members throughout project delivery.

Benefits

Our workplace culture is extremely supportive, creative, and driven, so you can rest assured that your workmates will have your back and will help you to succeed in the role. We embrace diversity, foster professional development, and will provide you with the tools and environment you need to thrive.

• MAPS Days and paid volunteering – four paid days a year to grow your skills and knowledge,
• Additional two weeks of annual leave through our Purchased Leave Initiative,
• Access to generous company paid Parental Leave benefits after 6 months,
• Professional membership support following probation – reimbursement of fees for industry memberships,

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance