Design Director

About This Role

Directing the design standards and aesthetic vision for a world-leading ultra-luxury hospitality brand is the core of this role. This strategic position involves overseeing new developments, renovations, and brand extensions globally, ensuring each project aligns with the brand's unique identity while remaining culturally relevant and authentic. The role suits a candidate with a strong design sensibility and an ability to manage complex global projects.

Responsibilities

• Define and evolve the visual language, spatial philosophy, and experiential identity of the brand across all property types (city hotels, resort destinations, branded residences)
• Review and approve design team design proposals, concepts, and documentation from third-party consultants
• Lead internal design direction workshops and aesthetic reviews with project teams, ownership groups, and design consultants
• Provide design oversight for all global projects from feasibility through opening, ensuring alignment with brand standards and design excellence
• Act as primary liaison between corporate office and third-party design teams for all design-related matters
• Evaluate design consultants, provide recommendations, and lead shortlisting processes
• Contribute to master planning and spatial programming during early feasibility studies
• Collaborate with the Development and Technical Services teams to ensure seamless integration of brand identity and operational functionality
• Assist in the development of innovation in areas such as wellness, sustainability, F&B, and luxury experiences through spatial storytelling and design expression
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration with marketing, operations, procurement, and brand teams to support a holistic design approach
• Represent the brand at design conferences, press engagements, and industry events

Requirements

• Strong design sensibility with an impeccable eye for detail and luxury aesthetics
• Ability to manage complex global projects with multiple stakeholders and fast-paced timelines
• Deep knowledge of luxury hospitality trends, materials, FF&E, and spatial programming
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and presentation skills
• Ability to inspire, direct, and align multidisciplinary teams
• Comprehensive ability in the operation of all MS Software, Autocad (2D & 3D), BIM/REVIT (Review and comment), On Line document control systems, In Design/Canva etc
• Bachelor's or master's degree in architecture or interior design, or related field from a globally recognized institution
• Internationally minded with cross-cultural fluency and sensitivity to regional design nuances
• Passion for innovation, guest-centric experiences, and contemporary interpretations of heritage