Summary of Interior Design Practice Leader:

The Interior Design Practice Leader provides strategic leadership and balances creative design vision with technical execution and procurement responsibilities. This individual ensures that interior projects meet or exceed client expectations, adhere to industry regulations, and fulfill quality benchmarks. By overseeing design development, project management, and FF&E procurement, this role is instrumental in delivering holistic architectural and interior solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Strategic Direction
• Set and uphold interior design standards, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives.
• Foster a culture of design excellence, mentorship, and professional development for team members.
• Coordinate with firm leadership to develop revenue goals and identify new business opportunities.
• Design & Project Management
• Guide interior projects from concept through completion, integrating seamlessly with architectural teams.
• Conduct client presentations, workshops, and design narratives that align with functional and branding needs.
• Maintain project schedules, budgets, and quality standards, managing risk and ensuring compliance with codes and regulations.
• Furniture Procurement & Vendor Relations
• Lead FF&E selection and procurement strategies, focusing on cost efficiency and design intent.
• Negotiate with vendors, manufacturers, and suppliers to optimize pricing, quality, and lead times.
• Oversee bid processes, contracts, and purchasing to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery.
• Quality Assurance & Control (QA/QC)
• Establish QA/QC protocols, reviewing all design documentation, drawings, and specifications at key milestones.
• Identify and mitigate potential design or documentation risks, ensuring compliance with standards.
• Maintain minimal errors and omissions, keeping change orders within industry benchmarks.
• Collaboration & Coordination
• Work closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to integrate interiors into broader building projects.
• Coordinate logistics for the delivery and installation of furniture, fixtures, and finishes.
• Business Development & Financial Management
• Contribute to business proposals, interviews, and marketing efforts.
• Develop and manage budgets, contracts, warranties, and risk assessments for interior design and procurement.

Qualifications:

• Education & Experience
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Interior Architecture (or related field).
• NCIDQ Professional certification/licensure preferred.
• 10+ years of experience managing design and procurement projects in a leadership capacity.
• Technical & Soft Skills
• Strong understanding of design processes, building codes, and procurement best practices.
• Proficiency in MS Project, Excel, Word, Revit, AutoCAD, and similar platforms.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, adapt to challenges, and guide teams effectively.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Physical Requirements
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and reach for extended periods.
• Capability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Use of hands, hearing, and vision for office tasks and site evaluations.
• Work Environment
• Primarily office-based with moderate noise levels.
• Occasional visits to active construction sites requiring compliance with safety protocols (hard hats, safety vests, etc.).
  

 

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