About This Role
This Design Director role at IA Interior Architects involves setting a clear vision for design excellence and leading the studio in delivering innovative, high-performing environments. The director partners closely with clients, project teams, and firm leadership to translate business and human needs into strategic, aspirational, and executable design solutions.
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
Requirements
- 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
- 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
