Chief Design Strategist

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced leader to head our design studio.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in workplace strategy, exceptional space planning skills, and proven managerial capabilities.

This senior leadership role drives design excellence and operational efficiency across our Design & Built vertical and key co-working projects.

The successful candidate will lead a talented team of architects and interior designers, overseeing the entire project lifecycle from initial concept to final execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of architects and interior designers, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and high performance.
• Manage team resources, workload allocation, and project timelines to ensure efficiency and quality.
• Oversee the professional development of team members, providing guidance, training, and regular performance feedback.
• Set clear goals and expectations for the studio, aligning them with the company's overall strategic objectives.

Design Strategy & Execution:

• Champion a strong workplace strategy mindset, integrating current trends and future-forward thinking into all design solutions.
• Lead the conceptualization and development of cutting-edge design concepts for both co-working spaces and bespoke client projects within the Design & Built vertical.
• Demonstrate and instil excellent space planning abilities within the team to optimize functionality, user experience, and spatial efficiency.
• Ensure all designs are delivered to the highest quality standards, adhering to brand guidelines, client requirements, and budget constraints.

Project & Operational Excellence:

• Oversee the end-to-end delivery of multiple projects, from client briefing and programming to schematic design, detailed design, and on-site execution.
• Collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams, including project management, procurement, sales, and operations, to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Review and approve technical drawings, specifications, and material selections.
• Implement and refine design processes and workflows to improve studio productivity and output quality.

Stakeholder & Client Management:

• Serve as the primary design point of contact for key internal stakeholders and external clients.
• Confidently present design concepts, strategies, and project updates to senior leadership and clients.
• Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with clients to ensure satisfaction and repeat business.
• Actively participate in business development pitches and proposals, contributing design expertise and strategic insights.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in the architecture and corporate interior design industry.
• Proven track record in a senior leadership role (e.g., Design Head, Associate Director, Senior Manager) managing a team of design professionals.
• Extensive experience in workplace design, corporate interiors, and managing full-cycle Design & Built projects.
• A strong portfolio showcasing high-quality, innovative, and successfully executed workplace projects.

Skills & Competencies:

• Leadership: A decisive and inspiring leader with the ability to motivate and manage a creative team effectively.
• Strategic Mindset: Deep understanding of workplace strategy, user-centric design principles, and industry trends.
• Design Acumen: Exceptional design sensibility, with outstanding space planning, conceptualization, and detailing skills.
• Managerial Skills: Excellent organizational, project management, and time management abilities. Strong financial acumen with experience managing project budgets.
• Communication: Superior verbal, written, and presentation skills, capable of articulating complex design ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Technical Proficiency:
• Essential: High-level proficiency in Revit.
• Proficient: AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign), and MS Office Suite.
• Familiarity with the use of AI tools such as Gemini, ChatGTP.

We offer a dynamic and collaborative work environment, a competitive salary package, and a key role with significant impact on our growth and success.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to lead a talented team of architects and interior designers.
• Chance to shape the aesthetic and functional quality of our spaces.
• Role in driving design excellence and operational efficiency.
• Collaborative work environment with opportunities for growth and development.