The Design Director sets a clear vision for design excellence and leads the studio in delivering innovative, high-performing environments. This role partners closely with clients, project teams, and firm leadership to translate business and human needs into design solutions that are strategic, aspirational, and executable.
RESPONSIBILITIES:- Build strong, trusted relationships with clients by understanding their business objectives, culture, performance goals, budgets, and schedules, and translating those insights into clear design vision.
- Lead and elevate design quality across the studio, ensuring consistency, rigor, and innovation in all design outcomes.
- Direct and present design concepts for key projects and accounts, articulating ideas through clear storytelling, data-informed narratives, and compelling visual communication.
- Oversee the development of space plans, design concepts, documentation, and furniture packages for priority projects and pursuits.
- Collaborate closely with Project Managers and technical leaders to ensure design intent, documentation, and furniture deliverables are fully coordinated and aligned with client goals.
- Mentor and develop designers at all levels through regular feedback, coaching, and leadership, fostering a culture of accountability, curiosity, and continuous improvement.
- In partnership with studio leadership, lead training initiatives, design reviews, and team-building efforts that support IA's design standards and best practices.
- Maintain strong industry and client relationships while identifying opportunities for business development, new pursuits, and thought leadership.
- Partner with design and marketing teams to guide project photography, storytelling, and award submissions that reflect IA's brand and design excellence.
- Foster collaboration across studios and disciplines to ensure alignment with IA's firmwide standards, processes, and strategic objectives.
TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION:- Champion the thoughtful integration of emerging technologies, including AI-enabled design and visualization tools, to enhance creativity, efficiency, and design insight.
- Guide teams in using AI to support research, precedent analysis, test fits, visualization, and iterative design exploration while maintaining design integrity and authorship.
- Collaborate with firm leadership to evaluate, test, and implement digital tools and workflows that improve design quality, coordination, and client experience.
- Encourage a culture of learning and adaptability around new technologies, automation, and data-driven design practices.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:- Degree from an accredited architecture or interior design program.
- Licensed Architect and/or Interior Designer preferred.
- 15+ years of progressive experience in workplace design, including leadership of complex projects and multidisciplinary teams.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:- Exceptional storytelling, presentation, and client engagement skills.
- Advanced expertise in concept development, space planning, and 3D visualization.
- Deep understanding of all phases of design, from concept through contract administration.
- Extensive knowledge of building systems, architectural detailing, local and state codes, and ADA requirements.
- Strong command of contract furnishings, finishes, and equipment (FF&E).
- Advanced proficiency in Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office.
- Working knowledge of AI-assisted design, visualization, and productivity tools, with the ability to guide teams in their effective and responsible use.
