About the Role:
Innovative is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead our Design department and help shape the future of our luxury remodeling projects. This is a high-impact leadership role for an architectural design professional who combines a sharp creative eye with strong business acumen; someone who can manage people, process, and the P&L with equal confidence.
As Design Manager, you'll oversee our multi-phase design process from concept through permitting, lead and develop a team of talented architectural designers, and serve as a key voice on our Leadership Team. You'll also stay hands-on, designing 1-2 projects of your own each year, while guiding the department's overall success.
If you're a proven design leader who thrives on building great teams, refining systems, and delivering exceptional client experiences, we'd love to talk.
What You'll Do:
Team Leadership
- Lead, coach, and hold the design team accountable to high standards of performance and quality
- Onboard and offboard team members, and manage individual goals and development ("Rocks & Goals")
- Conduct regular performance reviews and support career growth
- Oversee the Logistical Coordinator and ensure smooth team operations
Department & Financial Management
- Own the financial success and profitability of the design department
- Manage team workload and capacity through the pipeline schedule
- Build, refine, and maintain systems and processes that keep the department running efficiently
- Track and report monthly performance metrics
- Prepare and lead weekly departmental and cross-departmental meetings
Design & Project Oversight
- Support the team by resolving complex design challenges
- Oversee plan development and the permitting process
- Maintain a working understanding of every project's lifecycle, from signed Design Agreement through completion
- Ensure a strong grasp of applicable building codes
- Design 1-2 projects personally each year while managing the broader team
Relationships & Communication
- Champion open, transparent communication across all departments at Innovative
- Build and strengthen relationships with vendors and trade partners to improve collaboration
- Communicate confidently and persuasively with clients, resolving concerns with professionalism
- Stay current on industry trends, materials, and design techniques
- Serve as an active member of Innovative's Leadership Team
What You Bring:
- 7+ years of experience as a Lead Architectural Designer, including proven experience leading a team
- Demonstrated success managing the processes, culture, and financial performance of a department
- Strong working knowledge of AutoCAD, Chief Architect, SketchUp, Canva, Bluebeam, Google Suite, and Buildertrend
- Solid understanding of building codes and the remodeling/construction process
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
- A four-year degree
- NKBA and/or NCIDQ certification preferred; willingness to obtain NCIDQ required
Compensation Package:
Salary commensurate with experience
- Health Insurance
- Simple IRA
- Amazing PTO policy
- Company bonus based on net profit
How to Apply
- Complete the online application, submit a resume, cover letter, portfolio (Applicant's that do not submit a portfolio will not be considered) and at least 1 set of construction drawings saved as a pdf
