Job Summary:
The Head of Design will be responsible for overseeing all design activities, managing the design
team, and ensuring the delivery of high-end, innovative design solutions that meet both client
expectations and project objectives. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of design
trends, client needs, and the technicalities of interior design and fit-out processes, with a proven
track record of successfully leading design teams and managing large-scale projects.
Key Responsibilities:
• Leadership & Team Management: Lead, mentor, and inspire a multidisciplinary design
team, fostering a collaborative and creative environment. Provide direction, support, and
professional development opportunities for designers. This includes objective setting and
training management requirements.
• Design Strategy: Develop and implement design strategies aligned with company goals
and client requirements. Oversee the creation of mood boards, concepts, presentations,
and design proposals to ensure a unified design vision.
• Project Oversight: Manage the design process from initial concept through to final
execution, ensuring designs are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest
standards. Work closely with project managers to ensure design and implementation
timelines are met. Approve materials, review samples for quality, and ensure selections
meet design and client standards.
• Client Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients,
acting as the primary point of contact for design-related inquiries. Ensure client
expectations are met and consistently exceed their needs with innovative, functional, and
aesthetically appealing designs.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other departments such as procurement, project
management, and construction teams to ensure seamless integration of the design with
the project’s overall execution. Ensure that designs align with technical specifications and
construction constraints.
• Quality Control: Maintain a high level of quality and attention to detail throughout the
design and implementation phases. Review and approve design deliverables, ensuring
compliance with industry standards, regulations, and brand guidelines.
• Market Awareness & Innovation: Stay updated with industry trends, emerging
technologies, sustainable practices, and design innovations. Integrate these insights into
projects to deliver fresh, forward-thinking design solutions.
• Budgeting & Resource Allocation: Oversee design budgets, ensuring that projects are
delivered within financial parameters. Allocate resources effectively to meet project
demands and deadlines.
• Brand Development: Help shape and promote the company’s design philosophy and
brand identity, ensuring consistency in the design direction across all projects. Represent
the company at design events, conferences, and client meetings.
• Problem-Solving & Risk Management: Address design-related challenges, providing
creative solutions to overcome obstacles during the design and construction process.
Manage design risks and mitigate potential issues before they arise.
Required Qualifications and Skills:
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in interior design, with at least 3-5 years in a
leadership role managing design teams, preferably within the interior design and fit-out
industry.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale, complex interior design projects from
concept through to completion.
• Strong understanding of construction, architecture, and fit-out processes, with the ability
to translate design concepts into technical specifications.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to
motivate and manage a team effectively.
• Proficiency in design software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite)
and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• A solid portfolio showcasing a range of successfully completed design projects.
• Knowledge of sustainable design practices and innovative design solutions.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Professional certifications (e.g., NCIDQ, RIBA, LEED).
• Experience working with international or high-profile clients in diverse sectors
(commercial, residential, hospitality).
• Expertise in BIM (Building Information Modeling) and advanced design technologies.
We’re about partnerships! At Career Maker, our aim is changing lives for the better by connecting talent with opportunity. We offer specialised recruitment services spanning across a range of industries with a culture that is focused on exceptional customer service. We are eager to get to know you and your company because that’s how we form real partnerships: partnerships that change lives.