Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director

Company: PBK

Location: Tampa, FL, United States (with potential for hybrid work across multiple FL and SC locations)

Job Type: Full time

Category: Design Leadership / Architecture Operations

Date Posted: 2026-07-29

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the overall design vision and quality assurance for architectural projects, ensuring innovation and client satisfaction.

• Drive business development and marketing initiatives to expand the firm's design portfolio and client base.

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of design professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performing design culture.

• Oversee the integration of cutting-edge design technologies, including Generative AI, into the firm's workflows and project outcomes.

• Ensure adherence to architectural practice standards, building codes, construction methods, and engineering discipline integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Director," the responsibilities listed, such as overseeing architectural practice, building codes, construction methods, and engineering disciplines, strongly suggest this role operates within an architectural firm's operational framework. The emphasis on "design leadership of the practice," "promoting quality design efforts across all departments," and "marketing and business development activities" indicates a strategic, operations-focused leadership position within the design discipline, rather than a purely creative role. The presence of "operations" in the category reflects this operational leadership aspect.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Champion and advocate for the highest standards of design quality, innovation, and aesthetic elevation to meet and exceed client objectives and visions.

• Uphold and advance the company's mission regarding client-centric design, streamlined processes, and effective project implementation.

• Provide direct supervision and guidance to a team of designers, fostering their professional development and ensuring project success.

• Lead and manage design presentations, meticulously monitor project design evolution, and offer critical design direction and support to maintain firmwide consistency and excellence.

• Leverage extensive knowledge of architectural practice, with a specialized focus on design principles, material selection, construction methodologies, integration of various engineering disciplines, and comprehensive understanding of building codes and cost implications.

• Act as a recognized thought leader within the design industry, actively participating in professional organizations, engaging in community outreach, and providing dedicated mentorship to design staff.

• Collaborate closely with firmwide design leaders and stakeholders to nurture and advance the company's design culture, while actively contributing innovative ideas to enhance the practice.

• Oversee the strategic integration and continuous advancement of firmwide technologies, including advanced design tools and Generative AI, into the design process and final project outcomes.

• Contribute to the development and implementation of robust firmwide design guidelines and operational standards to ensure consistent quality and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design leadership, team management, and business development, all critical functions within the operational structure of a design-focused firm. The emphasis on "firmwide consistency," "integration of technologies," and "development and implementation of guidelines" clearly points to operational oversight and process improvement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Architecture (or equivalent) is a mandatory requirement. Experience:

• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in architectural design and practice.

• Demonstrated experience in leading design teams and managing complex architectural projects.

• Proven track record in business development, client relationship management, and marketing within the A/E/C industry. Required Skills:

• Registered Architect (NCARB): A current and valid Registered Architect license, recognized by NCARB, is essential.

• Design Leadership: Proven ability to lead design teams, set design direction, and inspire creative excellence.

• Architectural Practice Expertise: Deep understanding of architectural design principles, building materials, construction methods, and integration of engineering disciplines.

• Building Codes & Regulations: Comprehensive knowledge of relevant building codes, zoning laws, and accessibility standards.

• Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with design technologies such as REVIT, Rhino, Sketch-up, and emerging tools like Generative AI.

• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication abilities for presentations, client interactions, and team collaboration.

• Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines.

• Client Relations: Ability to interact effectively with senior management, external clients, and vendors, fostering strong partnerships.

• Quality Focus: A strong commitment to quality, detail, and self-motivation in all aspects of work.

Preferred Skills:

• LEED AP: LEED Accredited Professional certification is highly desirable, indicating a commitment to sustainable design practices.

• Specialized Experience: Prior experience in corporate, educational, and/or healthcare sectors is preferred, demonstrating familiarity with specific client needs and project typologies.

• Business Development Acumen: Demonstrated success in generating new business opportunities and expanding market reach.

• Mentorship Capabilities: Proven ability to mentor and develop junior design staff, fostering a culture of learning and growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong blend of technical architectural expertise, leadership capabilities, and operational acumen. The requirement for NCARB certification and preferred LEED AP highlight industry-specific operational standards. The mention of specific design software and "Generative AI" points to a forward-thinking approach to design operations and technology integration.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Excellence Showcase: A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a track record of delivering high-quality, innovative architectural designs across various project types.

• Leadership & Management Examples: Case studies illustrating experience in leading design teams, managing project lifecycles, and overseeing design development.

• Client Engagement & Business Development: Evidence of successful client presentations, relationship management, and contributions to business development efforts.

• Technology Integration: Examples of how advanced design tools (Revit, Rhino, Sketch-up) and emerging technologies (Generative AI) have been integrated into the design process to enhance outcomes.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Documentation of any initiatives undertaken to optimize design workflows, improve efficiency, or implement new design standards.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to articulate and showcase the design of efficient architectural workflows, from conceptualization to construction documentation.

• System Implementation & Automation: Experience in implementing and leveraging design software and technologies to automate repetitive tasks and streamline the design process.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrated ability to define metrics for design quality and process efficiency, and to analyze performance data to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Director role with operational responsibilities, a portfolio should not only showcase design aesthetics but also demonstrate strategic thinking, process management, and leadership in implementing design operations. The emphasis on technology and process improvement is key for this type of role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for a Design Director with 15+ years of experience in major Florida and South Carolina metropolitan areas is typically between $150,000 and $220,000 annually. This range can vary based on specific location, depth of experience, leadership scope, and the candidate's business development success.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) with company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday policies.

• Professional Development: Support for continuing education, certifications (e.g., LEED AP), conference attendance, and professional memberships.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for bonuses tied to individual and company performance, including business development achievements.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided life and long-term disability insurance.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, operating on a full-time basis. Flexibility may be expected to meet project deadlines and client demands, particularly during critical phases of design and business development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary research for a Design Director role in the specified Florida and South Carolina markets, considering the 15+ years of experience and NCARB requirement, places the estimated range at $150,000-$220,000. This is based on industry benchmarks from salary aggregators and professional association data for senior architectural leadership roles. The benefits listed are standard for full-time positions in professional services firms of this nature.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) / Design Services. PBK operates within a dynamic sector that demands innovation, technical expertise, and client-focused solutions. The company's focus on corporate, educational, and healthcare sectors suggests a commitment to impactful projects that serve diverse community needs.

Company Size: PBK is a significant player in the AEC industry, likely employing hundreds or even thousands of professionals across multiple locations. This size suggests a structured organization with established processes, ample resources, and opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Founded: PBK was founded in 1974. This long history indicates a stable organization with a deep understanding of the industry, a proven track record, and a well-established client base. It also implies a culture that values experience, longevity, and sustained growth.

Team Structure:

• Design Practice Leadership: The Design Director will lead a substantial team of architects and designers, likely organized by discipline, project type, or geographic location.

• Reporting Hierarchy: This role will report to senior leadership, potentially a Principal, Managing Partner, or Head of Design, and will have direct reports consisting of design staff.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expect close collaboration with project managers, engineering disciplines (structural, MEP, civil), marketing, business development, and administrative departments to ensure seamless project delivery and firm growth.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on utilizing data and analytics to inform design decisions, optimize building performance, and measure project success against client goals.

• Process Optimization: A continuous focus on refining design workflows, implementing best practices, and leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and quality.

• Innovation & Technology Adoption: A forward-thinking approach to integrating new design tools, construction methods, and emerging technologies to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.

Company Website: https://www.pbk.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company information suggests a large, established firm with a strong foundation in traditional architectural services, now looking to innovate and expand through strategic leadership in design and technology. The "Design Director" role is positioned to lead these operational advancements within the design discipline.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level leadership position within the design operations of an architectural firm. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in architecture, strategic business acumen, and proven managerial capabilities. The scope of responsibility extends beyond individual project design to encompass the overall health and direction of the design practice.

Reporting Structure: The Design Director will likely report to a Principal, Partner, or a senior executive overseeing design or operations. They will manage a team of architects and designers, acting as a key liaison between the design staff and firm leadership.

Operations Impact: The Design Director's influence is critical to PBK's success. They directly impact revenue through business development and by ensuring the quality and competitiveness of the firm's design services. Their leadership in technology integration and process optimization can lead to significant improvements in project efficiency, client satisfaction, and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Firm-Wide Design Leadership: Potential to expand influence across multiple offices or practice areas, shaping the overall design philosophy and strategy of PBK.

• Executive Leadership: Advancement into executive roles such as Principal, Chief Design Officer, or a senior operational leadership position within the firm.

• Specialization & Thought Leadership: Deepen expertise in specific sectors (e.g., healthcare, education) or emerging areas like sustainable design or digital transformation, becoming a recognized industry expert.

• Mentorship & Talent Development: Lead initiatives to nurture and develop the next generation of design leaders within PBK, building a strong talent pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is not just about design execution but about managing the business of design. Growth opportunities reflect a trajectory toward broader operational and executive leadership within a large, established firm, emphasizing strategic impact and talent development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, emphasizing the importance of in-person collaboration, mentorship, and direct oversight. The work environment is likely a professional office setting typical of an architectural firm, with dedicated studio spaces and meeting rooms.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Tampa, FL, but the role has the potential to influence and work across multiple PBK offices in Florida (Sarasota, Orlando, St. Petersburg, West Palm Beach, Coral Gables, Fort Myers, Jacksonville) and South Carolina (Greenville, North Charleston, Spartanburg). This suggests a need for travel and coordination across different regions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Studios: Workspaces designed to foster interaction, brainstorming, and peer review among design teams.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to high-performance workstations, advanced design software, rendering capabilities, and potentially VR/AR tools for design visualization.

• Client Interaction Spaces: Professional meeting rooms equipped for client presentations, design reviews, and stakeholder discussions.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is expected. However, given the senior nature of the role and the demands of architectural project delivery and business development, flexibility and occasional extended hours may be required to meet critical deadlines and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on an on-site role and multiple office locations suggests that while the primary focus is Tampa, the Director will need to be adept at managing and influencing design operations across a distributed network, requiring strong communication and travel capabilities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a talent acquisition specialist will review applications and resumes for basic qualifications (experience, licensure, education).

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the direct hiring manager (likely a senior executive) to assess overall fit, leadership style, and strategic vision for the design practice.

• Team & Peer Interviews: Meetings with key design staff, project managers, and potentially other department heads to evaluate collaboration skills, technical acumen, and cultural alignment.

• Portfolio Presentation: A formal presentation of the candidate's portfolio, focusing on key projects, leadership examples, and strategic approaches to design operations. This is a critical stage for demonstrating impact and process.

• Final Interview: A concluding interview with top leadership to finalize the decision, discuss terms, and confirm alignment with the company's strategic goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Leadership & Strategy: Beyond beautiful renderings, highlight your role in leading teams, making critical design decisions, managing project constraints, and driving business development.

• Process & Technology Integration: Clearly articulate how you've used specific tools (Revit, Rhino, Generative AI) to solve design challenges, improve efficiency, and achieve project objectives.

• Quantifiable Results: Whenever possible, present metrics related to project success, team performance, client satisfaction, or business growth that resulted from your leadership.

• Client Presentation Simulation: Prepare to present your portfolio as if you were pitching to a new client or presenting to senior PBK leadership, demonstrating your communication and persuasive skills.

• Tailor to PBK: Research PBK's projects and values. Highlight experiences and approaches that align with their corporate, educational, and healthcare sectors, and emphasize your interest in their specific culture and future direction.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Strategy Case Study: Be prepared to discuss a hypothetical design challenge or a past complex project, outlining your strategic approach, team management, and problem-solving methodologies.

• Business Development Pitch: Practice articulating how you would approach business development for PBK in a specific sector or market, showcasing your understanding of the firm's strengths and market opportunities.

• Technology Integration Plan: Be ready to discuss how you would implement or further leverage technologies like Generative AI within PBK's design process to enhance efficiency and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process for a senior leadership role like Design Director will heavily emphasize strategic thinking, operational management, and the ability to articulate impact beyond just design aesthetics. The inclusion of "Generative AI" in the requirements suggests interviewers will probe for understanding and application of emerging technologies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Expected to be the core BIM software for design and documentation. Proficiency in managing complex Revit models, families, and project structures is essential.

• Rhino: Likely used for advanced modeling, form-finding, and complex geometric design.

• Sketch-up: Potentially used for conceptual design, massing studies, and rapid prototyping of ideas.

• Generative AI Tools: A key differentiator. Candidates should be familiar with AI platforms and plugins relevant to architectural design (e.g., for concept generation, site analysis, form exploration, material optimization).

• Adobe Creative Suite: Standard for presentations, graphics, and visual communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Software: Tools like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or similar for tracking project progress, budgets, and timelines.

• Business Development CRM: Systems to manage client relationships, track leads, and monitor sales pipeline (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or industry-specific CRMs).

• Internal Reporting Dashboards: Familiarity with creating and interpreting dashboards for design team performance, project profitability, and business development metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: For managing client interactions and business development efforts.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Potentially used within Revit or other platforms to automate repetitive tasks in documentation or modeling.

• Integration Platforms: Understanding how different software platforms (e.g., BIM, CRM, PM) can be integrated to share data and streamline operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Revit, Rhino, Sketch-up, and Generative AI highlights the technological expectations for this role. Proficiency in these tools, coupled with an understanding of how they integrate into broader project and business operations, is critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A relentless pursuit of high-quality, innovative, and client-focused design solutions that push creative boundaries.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teams work synergistically to achieve common goals.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings and professional conduct.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies, methodologies, and ideas to stay at the forefront of the industry and adapt to evolving client needs.

• Client Focus: A deep commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations through exceptional service and impactful design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Encouraging seamless communication and collaboration between design teams, engineering disciplines, project managers, and business development to ensure holistic project success.

• Open Feedback Culture: Promoting an environment where constructive feedback is regularly exchanged, fostering continuous learning and improvement within the design team.

• Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative techniques across teams and offices to elevate the collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style described are typical of successful AEC firms that prioritize both creative output and operational efficiency. For a Design Director, demonstrating alignment with these values and the ability to foster such a collaborative environment is crucial.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Pragmatism: Effectively integrating cutting-edge technologies and innovative design concepts while adhering to budget constraints, building codes, and client requirements.

• Managing Diverse Project Portfolios: Overseeing design quality and consistency across a wide range of project types, scales, and client needs in different sectors.

• Talent Acquisition & Retention: Attracting and retaining top design talent in a competitive market, and fostering their growth and development within PBK.

• Driving Technology Adoption: Championing and implementing new technologies like Generative AI across teams that may be resistant to change, ensuring successful integration and adoption.

• Geographic Coordination: Effectively leading and collaborating with design teams located across multiple offices in different regions, ensuring consistent standards and communication.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Technology Training: Access to specialized training and resources for emerging design tools, AI applications, and digital fabrication techniques.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to enhance strategic leadership, financial management, and business development skills through internal or external programs.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading AEC industry events to stay abreast of trends, network with peers, and gain new insights.

• Mentorship & Executive Coaching: Access to mentorship from senior firm leaders and potentially executive coaching to refine leadership capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior operational leaders in the AEC industry, requiring strategic problem-solving and adaptability. The growth opportunities are geared towards expanding leadership scope and deepening technical and strategic expertise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach integrating Generative AI into PBK's current design process to enhance efficiency and innovation, and what are the potential challenges?" (Focus on tactical implementation, risk mitigation, and team training).

• "Describe your philosophy on design leadership and how you foster a culture of collaboration and excellence within a design team. Provide examples of how you've managed team dynamics to achieve project success." (Highlight leadership style, communication, conflict resolution, and team building).

• "Walk us through a complex architectural design challenge you faced, detailing your strategic approach, the tools and methodologies you employed, and the ultimate outcome. How did you measure success?" (Prepare a case study focusing on problem-solving, process, technology, and quantifiable results). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about PBK's recent projects, and how do you see your design leadership contributing to our continued success in the corporate, educational, and healthcare sectors?" (Research PBK's portfolio and align your vision with their strategic direction).

• "How do you ensure consistency and quality across a design practice with multiple offices and diverse project types?" (Discuss your approach to standards, communication, and oversight).

• "How do you measure the impact of design operations on a firm's profitability and client satisfaction?" (Prepare to discuss key performance indicators and your role in driving business results). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation to tell a story about your career progression, leadership journey, and impact, using projects as evidence.

• Focus on Leadership & Operations: Emphasize your role in decision-making, team management, process improvements, and business development, not just the aesthetic outcomes of projects.

• Demonstrate Tech Proficiency: Clearly show how you've utilized tools like Revit, Rhino, and importantly, Generative AI, to solve problems or achieve superior results.

• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics to illustrate the success of your projects and initiatives (e.g., budget adherence, schedule improvements, client retention rates, team productivity gains).

• Engage Your Audience: Make it interactive. Be prepared for questions and use your presentation as a springboard for discussion about your strategic thinking and operational capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, operational leadership, and the ability to manage both design quality and business objectives. The specific mention of Generative AI means candidates must be ready to discuss its practical application in an architectural operations context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link on the PBK careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to specifically highlight projects and experiences that demonstrate your design leadership, operational management, business development success, and proficiency with key design technologies (Revit, Rhino, Generative AI). Include case studies of process improvements or technology integrations.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 15+ years of experience, NCARB licensure, and specific achievements in leading design teams, managing projects, and contributing to business growth. Use keywords such as "Design Director," "Architectural Practice," "Revit," "Generative AI," "Business Development," and "Operations Management."

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on your strategic approach to design leadership, operational challenges, and technology integration. Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewers about PBK's design culture, strategic goals, and team structure.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research PBK's website, recent projects, news releases, and leadership profiles. Understand their market position, key sectors, and company values to articulate how your leadership style and experience align with their operational needs and future vision.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.