Senior Design Architect

Job Summary

The Senior Interior Design Manager is a strategic leadership role responsible for driving the vision, execution, and excellence of interior design across the firm’s diverse real estate portfolio (Commercial and Retail spaces.). This individual translates the company’s brand identity, market positioning, and project goals into compelling, functional, and marketable interior environments. They lead the Commercial and Retail team, collaborate closely with cross-functional departments (Development, Construction, Marketing, Sales,MEP), manage external consultants, and ensure design solutions are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, ultimately enhancing asset value and occupant experience.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Design Leadership:

• Develop and implement the interior design vision and strategy aligned with the firm’s overall business objectives and target markets.
• Establish and maintain high-level design standards, guidelines, and best practices for all project types.
• Conduct market research and trend analysis to inform innovative and competitive design solutions.
• Champion design excellence that differentiates the firm’s projects in the marketplace.

2. Project Oversight & Execution:

• Lead the interior design process from concept development through construction administration and final installation for multiple concurrent projects.
• Oversee the creation and presentation of design concepts, mood boards, space planning, FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) specifications, material selections, and construction documentation.
• Ensure design solutions meet functional requirements, budget constraints, regulatory codes (ADA, fire safety, etc.), sustainability goals (LEED, WELL, etc.), and operational needs.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively, identifying and mitigating risks proactively.
• Review and approve design deliverables from internal team and external consultants (architects, MEP engineers, lighting designers, etc.)

3. Stakeholder Collaboration & Communication:

• Serve as the primary interior design liaison between internal stakeholders (Development, Construction, Sales/Marketing, Asset Management) and external partners (clients, investors, contractors, vendors).
• Present design concepts and progress clearly and persuasively to executive leadership, investment committees, clients, and community groups.
• Negotiate effectively with contractors, vendors, and suppliers to secure best value and quality.
• Resolve design-related conflicts and issues constructively.

4. Budget Management:

• Develop, manage, and track interior design budgets for all projects, including FF&E procurement.
• Implement cost-control measures and value engineering strategies without compromising design integrity.
• Oversee the procurement process for FF&E, including vendor selection, contract negotiation, purchase order management, and installation coordination.
• Maintain strong relationships with key vendors, manufacturers, and suppliers to leverage resources and secure favorable terms.

5. Quality Assurance & Compliance:

• Conduct rigorous quality reviews of design documentation, shop drawings, and installed work to ensure adherence to design intent, specifications, and quality standards.
• Ensure all designs comply with applicable building codes, regulations, accessibility standards, and sustainability certifications.
• Manage the punch list process and project closeout for interior elements.

6. Innovation & Process Improvement:

• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging materials, technologies, and sustainable practices.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process improvements within the interior design function to enhance efficiency and outcomes.
• Explore and integrate innovative design solutions that enhance user experience and project value.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field from an accredited institution.

Experience:

• Minimum 15+ years of progressive experience in interior design, with at least 5-7 years in a senior role.
• Crucial: Significant experience (5+ years) working directly within a Real Estate Development Firm, Large-Scale Residential Developer, Experience working for a design firm serving real estate clients is valuable but must be supplemented by direct developer-side experience.
• Proven track record successfully managing the interior design for large-scale, complex projects (e.g., Commercial Lobbies, offices and Malls).
• Strong portfolio showcasing above project types and design excellence within a real estate context.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in industry-standard design software: AutoCAD, Revit (BIM), SketchUp, Power point
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, building systems, and FF&E specifications.
• Knowledge of relevant regulations, and accessibility standards (ADA, etc.).
• Understanding of sustainability principles and certification processes (LEED, WELL, etc.).