Design Manager - Architecture

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Architecture

Company: WGI

Location: Tampa, Florida, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Architecture & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-27

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and execution of complex aviation projects, ensuring architectural excellence and client satisfaction.

• Drive business development and client relationship management within the aviation market sector to expand market share and secure new opportunities.

• Manage multidisciplinary design teams, providing strategic leadership, mentorship, and oversight for all project phases from conception through completion.

• Ensure adherence to all relevant FAA, TSA, ADA, and local regulatory requirements in project design and implementation, maintaining high standards of quality control and risk mitigation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is titled "Design Manager - Architecture," the extensive responsibilities in business development, client relationships, strategic planning, and market leadership strongly indicate a "Revenue Operations" or "GTM Operations" facet, particularly within the specialized aviation sector. This role is designed to not only manage design but also to actively grow the business pipeline and client portfolio.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as Principal-in-Charge or Project Executive for key aviation and related projects, overseeing overall project success and client satisfaction.

• Lead comprehensive project governance, including meticulous scope management, proactive risk mitigation strategies, effective stakeholder coordination, and executive-level reporting.

• Provide senior-level leadership in programming, strategic planning, architectural design, and multidisciplinary coordination for critical aviation facilities and infrastructure improvements.

• Direct and mentor multidisciplinary design teams to ensure projects achieve optimal operational functionality, design excellence, and surpass client objectives.

• Guide teams through intricate stakeholder engagement processes involving airport authorities, airlines, regulatory agencies, and community partners, fostering strong collaborative relationships.

• Lead executive-level project presentations, strategic workshops, and design reviews with clients, governing boards, and public agencies, articulating vision and outcomes clearly.

• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, guiding their strategic decision-making, project prioritization, and long-term capital planning initiatives with expert insights.

• Oversee the quality control and technical execution of designs across all project phases, ensuring strict adherence to firm standards and industry best practices.

• Lead the design implementation of all applicable FAA, TSA, ADA, and local regulatory requirements, ensuring full compliance and operational readiness.

• Develop and execute robust marketing and business development strategies to expand market share and strengthen client relationships within the aviation sector.

• Identify, pursue, and successfully secure new aviation opportunities with airports, municipalities, airlines, and aviation-related agencies, contributing directly to revenue growth.

• Represent WGI at significant industry conferences, trade organizations, and networking events such as AAAE, ACC, ACI, and regional aviation associations, enhancing firm visibility and lead generation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly extend beyond traditional design management to encompass significant business development, client acquisition, and strategic market growth. This dual focus is common in senior operations roles within specialized industries where technical expertise is leveraged for commercial success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Professional bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture from an accredited institution is mandatory. Experience:

• Minimum of 12–15 years of progressive professional experience, with a substantial focus on aviation projects and infrastructure.

• Demonstrated success in leading complex aviation projects from inception through completion, managing scope, budget, and schedule effectively.

• Proven track record of business development and client management within the aviation industry, evidenced by successful pursuits and long-term client relationships.

• Experience working within a growing or entrepreneurial Architecture/Engineering (A/E) environment is highly desirable. Required Skills:

• Registered Architect (RA) License: Active and valid license required, with NCARB certification for reciprocal state licensure.

• Aviation Industry Expertise: Deep understanding of airport operations, FAA requirements, TSA mandates, ADA compliance, and general aviation industry standards.

• Project Leadership: Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, manage project governance, and deliver complex projects on time and within budget.

• Business Development & Client Management: Strong capabilities in identifying opportunities, cultivating client relationships, and securing new work, with an existing network preferred.

• Strategic Planning & Market Development: Ability to contribute to the strategic growth of the aviation market sector, including developing and executing marketing and business development plans.

• Communication & Presentation: Excellent verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and executive-level presentation skills, essential for stakeholder engagement and client interactions.

Preferred Skills:

• Existing relationships with airport authorities, airlines, and key aviation stakeholders.

• Experience with medium and large-hub airport projects, demonstrating capacity for large-scale, complex initiatives.

• Familiarity with various project delivery methods common in the aviation sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a Registered Architect license and NCARB certification highlights the technical depth required. The extensive experience requirement (12-15 years) combined with business development responsibilities positions this as a senior-level role, potentially akin to a Director or VP level in GTM or Operations strategy.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies of Aviation Projects: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant aviation projects led or heavily influenced, detailing scope, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Business Development Success Stories: Include examples of successful client acquisition, proposal wins, or significant revenue growth generated through personal efforts or team leadership.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Document instances where you optimized design workflows, project delivery processes, or team collaboration methods, highlighting efficiency gains.

• Client Relationship Management Examples: Provide evidence of building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with key aviation stakeholders, demonstrating strategic partnership.

• Demonstration of Regulatory Compliance: Highlight projects where you successfully navigated and ensured compliance with complex FAA, TSA, or ADA regulations.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Be prepared to discuss how you design and optimize architectural and multidisciplinary project workflows, ensuring efficiency and quality from concept to closeout.

• Implementation & Automation Methods: Explain your approach to implementing design processes, leveraging technology (e.g., BIM, project management software), and automating repetitive tasks where applicable for efficiency.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Detail how you measure the success of design processes and project delivery, using key performance indicators (KPIs) related to budget, schedule, quality, client satisfaction, and business development metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority, a portfolio is not just a collection of work but a demonstration of strategic thinking, process management, and commercial acumen. The focus should be on quantifiable achievements and impactful leadership in both design and business development.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $130,000 - $180,000+ annually, depending on experience, qualifications, and proven business development success.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Income Protection: Long-term disability (LTD) and Short-term disability (STD) insurance.

• Life Insurance: Provided coverage for peace of mind.

• Retirement Savings: 401k plan with a company match to support long-term financial goals.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) & Holidays: Generous paid time off and paid holidays for work-life balance.

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Company contribution to assist with healthcare expenses.

• Pet Insurance: Coverage for beloved animal companions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges.

Working Hours: Standard full-time role, typically 40 hours per week. Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines or business development goals. Flexibility may be offered based on project needs and team collaboration requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 12-15+ years of experience in specialized sectors like aviation, particularly in a high-cost-of-living area like Tampa, FL, and factoring in significant business development responsibilities. The provided benefits package is comprehensive and competitive for a firm of WGI's caliber.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: WGI operates within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector, with a significant focus on infrastructure, aviation, and commercial development. They are known for providing comprehensive consulting services.

Company Size: WGI is a mid-to-large-sized firm, indicated by their presence across multiple locations and a diverse range of services. This size offers opportunities for significant impact and career advancement without the bureaucracy of the largest corporations.

Founded: WGI was founded in 1972. This long history suggests stability, established processes, and deep industry expertise.

Team Structure:

• The Buildings Division likely comprises several specialized teams, including Architecture, Structural Engineering, MEP Engineering, and Interior Design, all collaborating on client projects.

• This Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Buildings Division, such as a Director of Architecture or a Vice President, and will manage a team of architects, designers, and potentially project coordinators.

• Close collaboration is expected with other division leaders (e.g., Transportation, Land Development) for cross-selling opportunities and integrated project delivery. Methodology:

• WGI emphasizes a client-centric approach, focusing on delivering exceptional service and tailored solutions.

• They invest in technology and tools to enhance design efficiency and project management, likely utilizing BIM (Building Information Modeling) and advanced project management software.

• A culture of collaboration and continuous improvement is promoted, encouraging team members to share knowledge and best practices.

Company Website: https://wginc.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and focus on diverse infrastructure sectors suggest a stable but dynamic environment. The emphasis on technology and collaboration aligns with modern AEC firm operations, where efficiency and integrated design are paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the architectural design and business development functions. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise, proven project leadership, and demonstrated success in revenue generation and client acquisition within a specialized market. It’s a strategic role with significant P&L responsibility and market-facing duties.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or VP of the Buildings Division, overseeing a team of architects and design professionals. They will also collaborate closely with business development and marketing teams to achieve divisional revenue targets.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on revenue generation through securing new aviation projects and ensuring the successful, profitable delivery of existing ones. The Design Manager's leadership influences client satisfaction, firm reputation, and the overall growth trajectory of WGI's aviation practice. Their ability to foster strong client relationships and win work is critical to the firm's financial health and market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership Advancement: Progression to Director of Aviation, VP of Buildings Division, or a similar executive-level role with broader strategic and financial oversight.

• Market Expansion: Opportunity to lead the development of new service lines or geographic expansion within the aviation sector or related infrastructure markets.

• Mentorship & Team Building: Develop and lead a growing team of architects and designers, shaping the future talent pool for the firm.

• Specialized Expertise Development: Deepen expertise in niche areas of aviation design (e.g., airport terminals, air traffic control towers, cargo facilities) or gain experience in adjacent markets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of design leadership and business development responsibilities suggests a pathway towards executive leadership, particularly in client-facing or market-growth roles within an A/E firm. The "Operations" aspect here is heavily tied to the revenue generation and client management lifecycle.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a physical office presence. WGI likely maintains professional office environments designed for collaboration and focused work. The Tampa office serves as the primary base.

Office Location(s): The primary location for this role is Tampa, Florida. WGI has multiple offices across the US, which may facilitate collaboration with colleagues in other regions.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a blend of private office space for focused design work, client calls, and strategic planning, along with shared collaborative areas for team meetings and design reviews.

• Access to industry-standard design software (CAD, BIM, project management tools), high-speed internet, and communication platforms (e.g., Zoom, Teams) is expected.

• Opportunities for interaction with diverse teams across architecture, engineering, planning, and construction administration disciplines will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and cross-functional work environment.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the demands of project deadlines and business development may require flexibility. This could include occasional extended hours or weekend work, especially during critical project phases or client engagement periods. The expectation is for a results-oriented approach, with the ability to manage one’s schedule effectively to meet business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for senior leadership roles where client interaction, team management, and strategic oversight are paramount. The Tampa location offers a vibrant business environment, and WGI's established presence suggests a well-equipped and supportive office setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and conduct a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience alignment, and interest.

• Technical/Behavioral Interview: Expect a more in-depth interview with senior leadership (e.g., Division Director, VP) focusing on your architectural expertise, project leadership experience, and understanding of aviation sector challenges. Behavioral questions will assess leadership style, problem-solving abilities, and past performance.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session will be scheduled for you to present your portfolio. This is a critical stage where you will walk through key projects, highlighting your role, design process, client management successes, and business development achievements.

• Business Development/Strategy Discussion: You may have a separate discussion focused on your approach to business development, client relationship management, and strategic growth within the aviation market. This could involve scenario-based questions.

• Final Interview: A final interview with executive leadership may occur to confirm cultural fit and assess overall strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful aviation projects that showcase a range of complexities, from planning to execution.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, especially in leadership, design decisions, client interactions, and business development efforts.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use data to demonstrate success – e.g., project budget adherence, schedule improvements, client retention rates, new business secured.

• Showcase Process: Explain your design methodology, how you manage multidisciplinary teams, and how you ensure regulatory compliance.

• Business Development Focus: Integrate your business development successes – how you identified opportunities, pitched to clients, and won work.

• Concise & Engaging: Prepare a presentation that is clear, concise, visually appealing, and tells a compelling story about your capabilities and impact.

Challenge Preparation:

• Industry Trends: Be prepared to discuss current trends in aviation design, airport operations, and emerging technologies.

• Business Development Strategy: Think about how you would approach growing WGI's aviation practice in the Tampa region or a specific market segment.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle challenging client situations, team conflicts, or complex design issues.

• Leadership Philosophy: Articulate your leadership style, approach to mentoring, and how you foster a high-performing team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to rigorously assess both technical design capabilities and commercial acumen. The portfolio presentation is a key component, serving as the primary vehicle to demonstrate your impact and strategic value.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Architectural Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard platforms such as AutoCAD, Revit (BIM), and potentially SketchUp or other 3D modeling tools.

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Procore, or similar for managing project schedules, budgets, and resources.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Slack for team communication and virtual meetings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Financial Reporting Tools: Ability to interpret and utilize financial reports related to project profitability, budgeting, and forecasting.

• CRM Software: Experience with Customer Relationship Management systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or industry-specific AEC CRMs) for tracking leads, client interactions, and business development pipeline.

CRM & Automation:

• Business Development Pipeline Management: Understanding of how CRM systems are used to manage the sales funnel from lead generation to proposal submission and project award.

• Workflow Automation: Awareness of potential opportunities to automate repetitive tasks in design, project management, or business development processes.

• Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in Excel for data analysis and reporting, with potential exposure to business intelligence tools for more advanced analytics.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, proficiency in core AEC design and project management tools is a given. The inclusion of CRM and financial reporting tools points to the revenue operations and business development aspects of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: A strong commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building lasting partnerships through exceptional service and reliable delivery.

• Excellence in Design & Execution: A dedication to high-quality architectural design, technical accuracy, and rigorous project management practices that ensure successful outcomes.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies, design methodologies, and market approaches to stay ahead in a dynamic industry.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse teams work together seamlessly, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to achieve collective goals.

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

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where architects, engineers, planners, and business development professionals work closely together on projects and strategic initiatives.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open dialogue, constructive feedback, and proactive problem-solving across all levels and disciplines.

• Knowledge Sharing: Emphasis on sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise through internal forums, training sessions, and project debriefs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values reflect a professional services firm that prioritizes client relationships, quality of work, and team synergy. For this role, demonstrating how you embody these values, particularly in client management and team leadership, will be crucial.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Market Competition: Navigating a competitive landscape for aviation projects, requiring strong differentiation and value proposition.

• Regulatory Complexity: Staying abreast of and ensuring compliance with evolving FAA, TSA, and other regulatory requirements.

• Client Expectations Management: Balancing client demands with project scope, budget, and timeline constraints, particularly on large, high-profile projects.

• Talent Acquisition & Retention: Attracting and retaining top architectural and design talent in a specialized and competitive field.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Conferences & Training: Opportunities to attend key aviation industry events (e.g., AAAE, ACC, ACI) for networking and professional development.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to internal or external training focused on strategic leadership, financial management, and advanced business development.

• Mentorship: Guidance from senior leadership and peers within WGI on navigating complex projects, client relationships, and career progression.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining deeper understanding of engineering, planning, and construction processes through collaboration on integrated projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a senior role in a specialized and competitive sector. The growth opportunities highlight WGI's commitment to developing its employees, particularly in leadership and specialized areas relevant to the firm's strategic goals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing and executing a business development strategy for the aviation market. How would you identify and prioritize new opportunities for WGI in the Tampa region?"

• "Walk us through a complex aviation project you led. What were the key challenges, how did you manage the multidisciplinary team, and what was your specific role in ensuring client satisfaction and project success?"

• "How do you ensure architectural designs meet stringent FAA, TSA, and ADA compliance requirements while also achieving aesthetic and functional goals? Provide an example."

• "Imagine a key client is expressing dissatisfaction with project progress due to unforeseen site conditions. How would you handle this situation to maintain the relationship and find a resolution?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of WGI, what do you see as our greatest strengths in the aviation market, and where do you see opportunities for growth that you could champion?"

• "Describe your leadership style and how you foster a collaborative and high-performing design team."

• "How do you measure the success of your projects and your business development efforts? What KPIs are most important to you?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of your career trajectory and expertise. Then, present 2-3 detailed case studies, focusing on your strategic contributions, leadership, and commercial impact. Conclude with a summary of your business development successes and vision for growing WGI's aviation practice.

• Visuals: Use high-quality project imagery, clear diagrams, and concise text. Ensure your slides are professional and easy to follow.

• Storytelling: Frame your experience as a narrative – the challenge, your approach, the solution, and the outcome (both design and commercial).

• Engagement: Be prepared to answer in-depth questions about your projects, processes, and business development strategies. Make it interactive and conversational.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating your value proposition as a leader who can both design excellence and drive revenue growth. Quantifiable achievements and clear examples are essential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager - Architecture position:

• Submit your application through the WGI careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 12-15+ years of aviation project experience, RA license, business development successes, and leadership achievements. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a compelling portfolio that showcases your most impactful aviation projects, business development wins, and process improvement examples. Be ready to present it clearly and concisely.

• Research WGI: Familiarize yourself with WGI's projects, values, and recent news, particularly within their Buildings Division and aviation sector. Understand their market position and strategic goals.

• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your portfolio presentation and answers to common interview questions, focusing on articulating your strategic vision, leadership capabilities, and business development acumen.

⚠️ 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.