Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: AccorCorpo

Location: Madrid, Spain

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design & Technical Services / Hospitality Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-08-02T21:40:54.43

Experience Level: 8+ Years (AI inferred 10+ years for senior roles)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design and development of new hotel projects, renovations, and rebranding initiatives across a broad European region (Iberia, Greece, Malta, UK, DACH, Nordics).

• Ensure all design outcomes meticulously adhere to Accor's global brand standards while optimizing operational, technical, and commercial performance.

• Act as a key liaison, fostering collaboration between internal stakeholders (Development, Operations, Marketing, Technical Services) and external partners (owners, architects, interior designers, consultants).

• Manage the entire project lifecycle, from initial feasibility studies through to the successful hotel opening, guaranteeing exceptional guest experiences.

• Drive innovation and best practices in hospitality design, staying abreast of emerging trends and technological advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of Design Manager within a large hospitality group like Accor is inherently cross-functional and requires a strong understanding of both creative design principles and the practicalities of hotel operations and development. The broad geographical scope suggests a need for strong organizational skills and adaptability to various regional regulations and market nuances.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and meticulously manage hotel design projects from the initial feasibility stages through to construction, pre-opening, and final hotel opening.

• Provide expert guidance and recommendations on architectural layouts, conceptual designs, technical documentation, FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) specifications, and consultant proposals.

• Prepare comprehensive design briefs, detailed technical reports, accurate meeting minutes, and persuasive project recommendations for both clients and internal leadership.

• Foster and maintain robust, collaborative relationships with property owners and project teams, serving as a trusted advisor throughout the entire design and construction continuum.

• Proactively identify and integrate emerging hospitality design trends and technological innovations to continuously elevate the quality and impact of Accor's hotel portfolio.

• Conduct regular site visits and project reviews across multiple European countries to ensure design integrity, quality control, and adherence to brand standards.

• Collaborate closely with Development, Operations, Marketing, and Technical Services departments to ensure seamless project delivery and alignment with overarching business objectives.

• Actively participate in and contribute to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives, aligning projects with Accor's commitment to responsible hospitality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on project management. The emphasis on "trusted advisor" implies a need for strong interpersonal skills and the ability to influence decision-making among diverse stakeholders. The geographical breadth necessitates a pragmatic approach to travel and remote collaboration.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Interior Design. Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in hospitality design and comprehensive project management.

• Demonstrated experience within an international hospitality company is highly preferred.

• Proven track record of managing client relationships effectively throughout the entire design and construction lifecycle.

• Experience across all project phases, from initial feasibility and concept development to construction documentation and successful hotel openings. Required Skills:

• Mastery of CAD software for architectural and design drafting.

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, with a particular emphasis on InDesign for presentation and documentation.

• Expertise in 2D/3D design software to visualize and communicate design concepts effectively.

• Exceptional project management and organizational skills, with a proven ability to manage multiple complex projects concurrently.

• Strong stakeholder management capabilities, enabling effective communication and collaboration with diverse internal and external parties.

• Experience in developing and managing design briefs and technical reports.

• Familiarity with FF&E specifications and procurement processes.

• Fluency in both English and Spanish is mandatory for effective communication across the specified regions. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Revit or other BIM (Building Information Modeling) software.

• Knowledge of sustainability best practices in architectural and interior design.

• Familiarity with budget management and cost control within design projects.

• Understanding of hotel operations and their impact on design decisions.

• Experience in hotel development and rebranding strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific software requirements (CAD, Adobe Suite, 2D/3D) are critical for this role, indicating a need for hands-on design capability alongside management. The dual language requirement (English and Spanish) is a key differentiator, reflecting the significant scope across Spanish-speaking regions. The AI-inferred experience level of 10+ years suggests that candidates with more extensive experience will be highly competitive.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse hospitality design projects, demonstrating a range of scales and complexities (e.g., new builds, renovations, brand standard implementations).

• Clearly articulate your specific role and contributions within each project, highlighting leadership and decision-making responsibilities.

• Present a clear narrative of the design process, from concept ideation and client engagement through to execution and problem-solving during construction.

• Quantify achievements where possible, using metrics to illustrate successful outcomes related to budget adherence, timeline management, operational efficiency improvements, or guest satisfaction enhancements.

• Include examples of technical documentation, such as key design drawings, mood boards, or FF&E selections, to demonstrate technical proficiency. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how you have developed or refined design processes to improve efficiency and consistency across multiple projects.

• Illustrate your approach to technical review and approval workflows, including how you manage feedback and ensure compliance with brand standards and building codes.

• Demonstrate your methods for collaborating with cross-functional teams and external partners, including communication strategies and documentation practices (e.g., meeting minutes, action logs).

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a strong visual portfolio is paramount. The emphasis should be on demonstrating not just aesthetic sensibility but also project management rigor, an understanding of operational constraints, and the ability to translate brand vision into tangible built environments. The portfolio should highlight problem-solving skills and the ability to deliver results within defined parameters.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the role's seniority (8+ years experience), location in Madrid, and the international scope of responsibilities, a competitive annual salary range is estimated between €55,000 - €75,000 gross. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers in major European cities within the hospitality sector, considering the specific responsibilities and the broad geographical coverage. Benefits:

• Participation in the All Heartists® employee program, offering significant discounts on hotel stays worldwide and exclusive travel offers.

• A comprehensive package of benefits typically associated with a leading international hospitality group, including potential for performance-based bonuses.

• Access to the Accor Academy learning platform for continuous professional development and skill enhancement.

• Structured talent development opportunities designed for career progression within the Accor network.

• Opportunities for international mobility and career growth across the global Accor network.

• Encouragement and opportunities to participate in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives, aligning with Accor's commitment to responsible hospitality.

• Hybrid working model, offering flexibility between office-based collaboration and remote work. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically around 40 hours per week. The hybrid arrangement allows for some flexibility in scheduling, balancing project needs with personal work preferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for similar roles in Madrid and major European capitals, factoring in the extensive responsibilities and experience required. The benefits package is heavily influenced by Accor's known employee programs, emphasizing travel perks and professional development. The hybrid nature of the work arrangement is a significant perk for work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Hospitality, Travel & Tourism, Real Estate Development. Accor operates a vast ecosystem of over 45 brands, encompassing hotels, restaurants, and lifestyle destinations globally. This diverse portfolio offers exposure to a wide range of market segments and guest experiences.

Company Size: Accor is a global leader with over 5,500 hotels and 10,000 restaurants worldwide, employing hundreds of thousands of individuals. This signifies a large, established organization with robust operational structures and extensive resources.

Founded: Accor was founded in 1963, bringing decades of experience and a deep understanding of the hospitality industry. This long history suggests stability, established brand recognition, and a strong foundation of operational expertise.

Team Structure:

• The Design & Technical Services team likely comprises specialists in architecture, interior design, engineering, and project management, catering to the group's extensive brand portfolio.

• This Design Manager role reports to the Vice President Design & Technical Services for the specified European regions, indicating a senior management reporting line.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core aspect, requiring close partnership with Development teams (for new acquisitions and projects), Operations (for functional requirements), Marketing (for brand consistency), and Procurement (for FF&E). Methodology:

• Accor's approach to design emphasizes adherence to global brand standards while allowing for regional adaptation and owner collaboration, fostering a balance between consistency and local relevance.

• The company champions a data-driven approach to hospitality, using market insights and guest feedback to inform design decisions and optimize guest experiences.

• A strong focus on process optimization and efficiency is evident through the emphasis on project management, technical documentation, and the use of advanced design tools.

Company Website: https://careers.accor.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Accor's "Heartist®" culture emphasizes passion, personality, and positive impact, suggesting a work environment that values employee contribution and personal growth. The scale of Accor means that design decisions have a significant, tangible impact across numerous properties and millions of guest experiences annually.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-to-senior level management position within the Design & Technical Services function. It requires a blend of specialized design expertise and robust project management capabilities, with significant responsibility for shaping the physical assets of the company across multiple territories.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports directly to the Vice President Design & Technical Services for the Iberia, Greece, Malta, UK, DACH, and Nordics regions. This signifies a direct line of communication with senior leadership and involvement in strategic regional design planning.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly influences the guest experience, brand perception, operational efficiency, and commercial success of Accor's properties. Successful project delivery contributes to revenue generation, guest satisfaction, and brand loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization & Leadership: Potential to deepen expertise within specific Accor brands or take on leadership of larger, more complex regional projects.

• International Mobility: Opportunities to transition to design management roles in other regions within the Accor global network.

• Cross-Functional Advancement: Possibility to move into broader development, operations, or asset management roles leveraging design and project management experience.

• Accor Academy: Access to extensive training programs for leadership development, technical skill enhancement, and strategic planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, established hospitality group. The emphasis on talent development and international opportunities suggests that ambitious professionals can build a long-term career at Accor, progressing from project management to broader strategic leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as having a "Hybrid way of working," indicating a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work. This suggests a modern office environment designed to facilitate teamwork and idea exchange, complemented by the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Madrid, Spain. However, due to the broad geographical scope of responsibilities, the role may involve periodic travel to other Accor offices or project sites across Iberia and other specified European countries.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model likely provides access to office facilities for meetings, collaborative sessions, and focused work, alongside the autonomy of working from home.

• The role will involve significant interaction with digital tools and platforms for design, project management, and communication, supporting a connected and efficient workflow.

• Opportunities for direct team interaction will occur during in-office days, fostering a sense of community and facilitating spontaneous problem-solving and knowledge sharing within the design and technical services team. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) apply, with the flexibility afforded by the hybrid work arrangement to manage personal schedules effectively, particularly when balancing project deadlines and travel commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the work environment is a key feature, offering flexibility. Candidates should be comfortable with a mix of in-office and remote work, and possess the self-discipline to manage their time effectively across different locations and project demands.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.

• First Interview (HR/Recruitment): Focus on background, motivation, cultural fit, and high-level understanding of the role and Accor.

• Technical Interview(s) (Hiring Manager/VP Design): In-depth discussion of your design philosophy, project management methodologies, technical skills (CAD, Adobe Suite), and experience with hospitality projects. Expect scenario-based questions and discussions around past projects.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, design process, challenges faced, and outcomes achieved. This is a critical stage for demonstrating your capabilities.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to assess strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your experience in hospitality design, project management, and your ability to meet brand standards and operational needs.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the brief, your approach, the key challenges, your solutions, and the measurable results. Emphasize your specific contributions.

• Showcase Technical Prowess: Include examples of CAD drawings, mood boards, FF&E selections, and any 3D visualizations that demonstrate your technical skills.

• Highlight Collaboration: Explain how you worked with owners, architects, and internal teams. Showcase your ability to manage relationships and communicate effectively.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use data to illustrate success (e.g., budget adherence, timeline completion, guest satisfaction scores, operational efficiencies gained).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for case studies or scenario-based questions related to managing a challenging project, dealing with difficult stakeholders, or adapting designs to meet new constraints.

• Practice articulating your design rationale and project management approach concisely and persuasively.

• Research Accor's current brand portfolio and recent projects to demonstrate your understanding of their design direction and market position.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio presentation is likely a high-stakes component of the interview process. Candidates should prepare thoroughly, focusing on clear, concise storytelling that highlights both creative vision and practical execution. Demonstrating an understanding of Accor's specific brands and operational context will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Essential for architectural drafting and design documentation. Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar is expected.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Specifically InDesign for creating professional presentations, reports, and design collateral. Photoshop and Illustrator may also be utilized.

• 2D/3D Design Software: Tools for visualization, rendering, and conceptual design (e.g., SketchUp, Rhino, Revit, 3ds Max). Experience with BIM software like Revit is increasingly valuable.

• Project Management Software: While not explicitly listed, familiarity with tools like MS Project, Asana, Trello, or similar platforms for task management, scheduling, and collaboration is highly beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate and interpret reports related to project budgets, timelines, and resource allocation.

• Presentation Software: Proficiency in tools like PowerPoint or Google Slides for creating compelling presentations for stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly customer-facing, understanding how design decisions impact operational systems and guest experience management (often supported by CRM data) can be advantageous.

• Familiarity with internal Accor systems for project tracking and communication is likely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on CAD and Adobe Creative Suite highlights the need for hands-on design skills. While specific project management software isn't listed, a candidate's ability to manage complex projects implies proficiency with such tools. Understanding how design impacts operational metrics is a key differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Passion & Personality: Accor's "Heartist®" culture values individuals who bring their authentic selves to work and are passionate about creating memorable experiences.

• Impact & Responsibility: A commitment to making a positive impact on customers, colleagues, and the planet, aligning with pioneering responsible hospitality.

• Excellence & Quality: A drive for high standards in design, execution, and guest service, ensuring brand consistency and operational effectiveness.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where individuals work together across departments and geographies to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Growth: Encouraging continuous learning, embracing new ideas, and supporting professional development for all employees.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with Development, Operations, Marketing, and Technical Services teams, necessitating strong communication and a shared understanding of project objectives.

• External Partnership: Building and maintaining strong, trusting relationships with owners, architects, interior designers, and consultants is critical for project success.

• Feedback Culture: An environment that encourages constructive feedback and open dialogue to refine designs and processes, driving continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the exchange of best practices and lessons learned across projects and regions to elevate the overall design quality within Accor.

📝 Enhancement Note: Accor's emphasis on "Heartists®" suggests a culture that values human connection and employee well-being. Candidates should demonstrate how their personal values align with these principles, particularly in their approach to teamwork and client/stakeholder engagement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Standards with Local Nuances: Effectively translating Accor's global brand identity into designs that resonate with local markets and meet specific owner requirements.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Navigating diverse priorities and expectations from owners, internal departments, and external design consultants across various countries.

• Geographical Complexity: Overseeing projects across a wide geographical spread (Iberia, Greece, Malta, UK, DACH, Nordics) requires robust logistical planning and cultural sensitivity.

• Budget and Timeline Constraints: Delivering high-quality design solutions within defined project budgets and strict timelines inherent in the hospitality industry.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously adapting to evolving hospitality design trends, guest expectations, and technological advancements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Accor Academy: Access to a comprehensive suite of training programs covering leadership, project management, technical skills, and strategic planning.

• Industry Exposure: Opportunity to work on a diverse portfolio of projects across various Accor brands, gaining broad industry experience.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Accor's Design & Technical Services function.

• International Experience: Developing skills in navigating different regulatory environments, cultural contexts, and market dynamics across Europe.

• ESG Integration: Learning and contributing to sustainable design practices and responsible hospitality initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges due to its scope, but these challenges are directly linked to substantial growth opportunities. Candidates who thrive in complex, international environments and are eager to learn and adapt will find this role highly rewarding.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a hotel design project from initial concept through to opening, highlighting key milestones and decision points." (Focus on process, stakeholder engagement, and risk management.)

• "How do you ensure that design projects adhere to brand standards while also meeting specific owner requirements and local market needs?" (Emphasize your negotiation and adaptation skills.)

• "Walk us through a challenging situation where you had to manage conflicting stakeholder expectations on a design project. How did you resolve it?" (Prepare a STAR method example focusing on communication and problem-solving.)

• "How do you stay current with hospitality design trends, new technologies, and sustainability best practices?" (Showcase your proactivity in continuous learning.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Accor and our 'Heartist®' culture?" (Research Accor's values, brands, and recent initiatives.)

• "How do you see your role contributing to Accor's commitment to responsible hospitality?" (Connect your design philosophy to ESG principles.)

• "Describe your experience working in a multinational environment. How do you adapt to different cultural contexts?" (Highlight your adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps by project or by theme (e.g., new build vs. renovation).

• Conciseness: Focus on the most impactful aspects of each project. Be prepared to answer detailed questions but avoid excessive jargon.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, drawings, and renderings. Ensure any text is legible.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, emphasizing your problem-solving skills and the positive outcomes achieved.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your design choices, budget management, technical challenges, and collaboration strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative vision, technical proficiency, robust project management skills, and strong interpersonal abilities. Candidates should be ready to articulate their value proposition in the context of Accor's global brand and operational strategy.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 8+ years of experience in hospitality design and project management, emphasizing international exposure and proficiency in CAD and Adobe Creative Suite. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a digital portfolio that showcases 3-5 key hospitality design projects. Focus on demonstrating your process, problem-solving skills, technical capabilities, and successful project outcomes. Ensure it's easily accessible (e.g., via a link in your CV or application).

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio projects concisely, focusing on your role, design rationale, challenges, and results. Be ready to articulate your approach to managing projects and stakeholders.

• Research Accor: Familiarize yourself with Accor's brand portfolio, values, and commitment to responsible hospitality. Understand their design aesthetic and market position.

⚠️ 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.