Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Journey

Location: New York, New York, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Architectural Design / Interior Design

Date Posted: 2026-08-21

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the conceptualization and execution of interior design projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives, project scope, and budgetary constraints.

• Cultivate strong client relationships through trust-building, expectation management, and clear, consistent communication.

• Provide strategic direction and creative guidance to project teams, articulating design rationale and facilitating innovative problem-solving for client challenges.

• Oversee and mentor junior designers, fostering their professional development, conducting performance reviews, and supporting career growth within the organization.

• Ensure the highest quality of design documentation by meticulously reviewing and redlining all outgoing deliverables to mitigate risks and liabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within the design team, requiring a blend of creative direction, client-facing skills, and people management. The "Design Manager" title, coupled with 10+ years of experience and responsibilities like mentoring and client management, indicates a strategic and influential role within the organization's project delivery framework. The focus on "multidimensional experiences (MDX)" suggests a forward-thinking agency that values innovative and integrated design approaches.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead interior design projects from initial concept development through final completion, ensuring strict adherence to client goals, defined project scope, and allocated budgets.

• Proactively build and nurture robust relationships with a diverse client base, effectively managing expectations and facilitating transparent, two-way communication channels.

• Equip project teams with essential context and clear direction, articulating the strategic rationale behind design decisions and empowering them to effectively address client needs.

• Conduct and facilitate internal work sessions, management meetings, and high-impact client presentations, serving as a key point of contact and thought leader.

• Provide direct mentorship, conduct comprehensive performance reviews, and actively support the career development pathways for more junior members of the design team.

• Uphold rigorous standards for design documentation quality by thoroughly reviewing and redlining all outgoing deliverables, thereby minimizing potential risks and liabilities.

• Collaborate closely with peers and project managers to meticulously maintain project schedules, control budgets, and optimize resource allocation for maximum efficiency.

• Identify potential design and delivery issues proactively, developing and implementing effective solutions before they require escalation.

• Source, vet, and coordinate with external vendors, specialized consultants, and contractors as necessary to ensure seamless project execution.

• Contribute to talent acquisition by participating in candidate interviews and actively engaging in the onboarding process for new hires during periods of team expansion.

• Support client retention strategies and drive account growth by contributing to project extensions and the identification of additional scopes of work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on end-to-end project ownership, client relationship management, and team leadership. The inclusion of "redlining outgoing deliverables" points to a critical quality control function, ensuring legal and contractual compliance. Responsibilities like "supporting client retention" and "account growth" indicate that this role has a direct impact on the company's business development and revenue generation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Professional degree from an accredited interior design or architectural program.

Experience: A minimum of 10 years of post-graduate experience working within an architectural or interior design studio environment.

Required Skills:

• Proven track record in leading complex design projects from inception to completion, engaging effectively with key stakeholders throughout the process.

• Exceptional presentation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex design concepts clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.

• Solid leadership capabilities, demonstrating the ability to guide, inspire, and manage project teams effectively.

• Confidence in managing client communications and team workflows while maintaining a deep engagement in creative problem-solving and design innovation.

• Proficiency in AutoCAD for 2D drafting and design.

• Proficiency in BIM/Revit for integrated building design and documentation.

• Proficiency in Bluebeam for document management, markup, and collaboration.

• Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically InDesign for layout and Photoshop for image editing. Preferred Skills:

• Direct experience within the Hospitality industry, understanding its unique design demands and client expectations.

• Knowledge of 3D Studio Max for advanced 3D modeling and rendering.

• Knowledge of Rhino for complex surface modeling and design exploration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical design proficiency, project leadership experience, and strong interpersonal skills. The 10-year experience requirement signifies a senior-level role, expecting candidates to operate with a high degree of autonomy and strategic input. The explicit mention of "Hospitality industry" as desirable suggests that experience in this sector will be a significant advantage, indicating the types of projects the company undertakes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of design projects showcasing leadership in interior design or architectural initiatives from concept to completion.

• Demonstrations of complex project leadership, highlighting stakeholder engagement, client communication, and successful project outcomes.

• Evidence of team leadership and mentorship, illustrating the ability to guide and develop junior design talent.

• Case studies detailing the problem-solving process, creative solutions, and the rationale behind design decisions, especially in challenging client scenarios.

• Examples of high-quality design documentation, potentially including sections of reviewed and redlined deliverables that showcase attention to detail and risk mitigation. Process Documentation:

• Workflow examples illustrating the end-to-end project lifecycle management, from initial client brief to final project handover.

• Documentation of client communication strategies, including sample presentation materials and meeting summaries that demonstrate effective stakeholder management.

• Samples of performance review documentation or mentorship plans that showcase a structured approach to team development.

• Examples of quality assurance processes for design documentation, highlighting methods for review and redlining.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a portfolio is central to this role. Applicants must not only showcase their design work but also their capabilities in project management, client relations, team leadership, and quality control. The emphasis on "demonstrating your experience as a design manager or design leader" means the portfolio should go beyond just visual design to highlight leadership and process.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $115,000 - $145,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.

• Paid time off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional development opportunities, including training, workshops, and conference attendance.

• Hybrid work model allowing for flexibility between in-office and remote work.

• Opportunity to work on high-profile, award-winning projects with a leading design agency.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and career advancement.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours based on project demands and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $115,000 - $145,000 USD for a Design Manager role in New York aligns with industry benchmarks for senior-level positions in the design and architecture sector within a high-cost-of-living urban center. This range reflects the significant experience (10+ years), leadership responsibilities, and required technical proficiencies. While specific benefits are not detailed in the original posting, standard comprehensive benefits packages are assumed for a role of this seniority and location.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Design & Innovation Agency, specifically focused on "Multidimensional Experiences (MDX)".

Company Size: Not explicitly stated, but the mention of an "award-winning ICRAVE team" and participation in recruiting suggests a growing, established firm. The description implies a collaborative studio environment.

Founded: Journey was "born from a legacy of pioneering studios," indicating a rich history and established presence in the design field.

Team Structure:

• The role implies a team structure where the Design Manager leads a group of junior designers, working collaboratively with project managers and potentially other senior design leads.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with project managers for scheduling and resource allocation, and potentially with other departments involved in innovation and client strategy.

• The ICRAVE team is highlighted, suggesting a core group of designers working on specific projects or within a particular specialization. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not explicitly stated for this role, the company's focus on "creative and technological innovation" and "strategic thinking" suggests a data-informed approach to design challenges.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Core responsibilities include coordinating with project managers to maintain schedule and resource allocation, indicating a structured approach to workflow.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: The emphasis on "shaping the future" and "technological innovation" hints at an interest in leveraging technology for efficiency, though specific automation responsibilities are not detailed for this design-focused role.

Company Website: www.journey.world

📝 Enhancement Note: Journey positions itself as a "Multidimensional Experience Agency," which is a key differentiator. This suggests a forward-thinking approach that integrates physical, digital, and immersive elements. The reference to "ICRAVE team" might be a specific division or project group, and understanding its role within the larger Journey organization would be beneficial. The company's heritage from "pioneering studios" implies a strong foundation in design excellence.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the design discipline, moving beyond individual contribution to encompass leadership, mentorship, and strategic project oversight. It sits at the intersection of creative direction and project execution management.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Design Director, Head of Design, or a Principal within the organization. They will, in turn, manage and mentor junior designers. Collaboration with Project Managers is also a key reporting and working relationship.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is crucial for delivering high-quality, client-satisfying projects that align with Journey's "MDX" approach. Their leadership directly influences project success, client retention, and the development of future design talent, ultimately contributing to the company's reputation and revenue growth.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to move into Design Director or Principal roles, taking on larger project portfolios, more strategic client accounts, and broader team leadership responsibilities.

• Industry Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of "Multidimensional Experiences" (MDX), such as immersive design, digital integration, or physical space innovation, through project work and specialized training.

• Leadership Potential: Developing advanced leadership skills through mentorship programs, management training, and the opportunity to shape team culture and processes within the design department.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a "Design Manager" role and not strictly "Revenue Operations," the analysis focuses on how leadership in design impacts business growth and operational efficiency within a creative agency context. The growth opportunities are framed to align with career progression within a design-focused firm, emphasizing leadership and specialized expertise development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid design studio located on Broadway, New York. This indicates a physical workspace designed for collaboration, client meetings, and focused design work, complemented by flexibility for remote work.

Office Location(s): New York Studio (Broadway). The company also operates globally as a "global design and innovation agency."

Workspace Context:

• The studio environment is designed to foster collaboration among designers, project managers, and potentially other creative professionals.

• Access to necessary design tools and technology (AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Suite, Bluebeam) is a given.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with team members for brainstorming, critiques, and knowledge sharing are integral to the hybrid model.

Work Schedule: A hybrid model is specified, requiring regular in-person studio hours. This suggests a structured approach to balancing remote flexibility with the collaborative needs of design projects. The standard work week is approximately 40 hours, with the expectation of increased commitment during peak project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "hybrid design Studio" nature of the workspace is important. It implies a need for individuals who can thrive in both collaborative in-person settings and independent remote work, requiring strong self-management skills and effective virtual communication. The specific mention of "Broadway Studio" adds a tangible detail to the work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, detailing their leadership roles, project management strategies, design rationale, and client interaction experiences. This will be followed by in-depth interviews.

• Team/Cross-functional Interviews: Meetings with potential peers, project managers, or other senior stakeholders to assess collaboration style, technical proficiency, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to finalize hiring decisions, focusing on strategic alignment and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your leadership in managing complex design projects from concept to completion. Highlight your role in client engagement, team direction, and problem-solving.

• Showcase Process & Rationale: Beyond final visuals, detail your design process, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the strategic thinking behind your decisions. Explain the "why" behind your designs.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate project success, client satisfaction, budget adherence, or efficiency gains.

• Highlight Leadership & Mentorship: Include examples or case studies that showcase your ability to mentor junior designers and lead project teams effectively.

• Address MDX: If possible, demonstrate how your past projects incorporate elements of multidimensional experiences, or how you envision applying this approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your leadership philosophy and how you motivate design teams.

• Anticipate questions about managing difficult client conversations or resolving design conflicts.

• Review Journey's work and their "MDX" philosophy to articulate how your skills and experience align with their mission.

• Practice presenting your portfolio concisely, focusing on key leadership contributions and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio presentation is critical. The advice focuses on showcasing leadership and process, not just aesthetic outcomes, aligning with the managerial aspect of the role. Understanding and articulating Journey's unique "MDX" approach will be key for demonstrating cultural fit and strategic alignment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: For 2D drafting, technical drawings, and detailed design documentation.

• BIM/Revit: For integrated building information modeling, collaborative design, and comprehensive project documentation.

• Bluebeam: For PDF-based workflows, document markup, collaboration, and quality control of deliverables.

• Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop): For presentation design, visual communication, image editing, and creating marketing collateral.

Analytics & Reporting: While not explicitly design tools, a Design Manager would need to interpret project performance data, budget tracking, and potentially client feedback metrics. Tools for this would likely be integrated into project management software or spreadsheets.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the core design responsibilities but understanding how design projects fit into the broader client management and sales cycle (potentially supported by CRM) would be beneficial for client retention and account growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are standard for architectural and interior design professionals, with a strong emphasis on industry-leading software for drafting, modeling, and document management. Proficiency in these tools is foundational, and the ability to leverage them effectively in a leadership capacity is key. The inclusion of Bluebeam points to a focus on efficient, collaborative document workflows.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Design: A commitment to high-quality, innovative, and impactful design solutions that align with client objectives and Journey's MDX philosophy.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where ideas are shared, feedback is constructive, and team members contribute to collective success.

• Client-Centricity: Building strong, trusting relationships with clients, understanding their needs deeply, and delivering exceptional service and outcomes.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Empowering team members, providing clear direction, and investing in the growth and development of emerging talent.

• Innovation & Forward-Thinking: Embracing new technologies, creative approaches, and the "multidimensional experience" concept to push the boundaries of design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working seamlessly with project managers, potentially marketing, and other internal teams to ensure project success and client satisfaction.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparency and direct dialogue within the design team and with clients to manage expectations and resolve issues efficiently.

• Feedback & Learning Culture: Promoting a culture where constructive feedback is welcomed, and continuous learning and improvement are prioritized.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values are inferred from the company description and role responsibilities. The focus on "MDX" and "innovation" suggests a culture that values creativity, technological integration, and forward-thinking design. The emphasis on mentorship and client relationships points to a professional and service-oriented ethos.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client Constraints: Effectively translating innovative design concepts into practical, budget-conscious, and client-approved solutions.

• Managing Diverse Client Expectations: Navigating the needs and demands of multiple clients, each with unique project goals and communication styles.

• Leading and Mentoring Junior Talent: Developing and retaining emerging designers, providing guidance, and fostering their professional growth while maintaining project momentum.

• Adapting to Evolving Design Trends & Technologies: Staying abreast of the latest in design software, materials, and the "MDX" landscape to ensure Journey remains at the forefront.

• Ensuring Quality Control: Maintaining high standards for design documentation and deliverables across all projects to mitigate risk and uphold the company's reputation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• MDX Specialization: Deepening expertise in Journey's core "Multidimensional Experience" methodology through specialized projects and internal training.

• Advanced Leadership Training: Developing strategic management skills, advanced client negotiation techniques, and refined mentorship practices.

• Industry Exposure: Attending relevant design conferences, workshops, and potentially pursuing certifications related to architectural or interior design leadership.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Engaging with other departments within Journey to understand broader business objectives and innovation strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are framed to reflect the complexities of a senior design leadership role within a dynamic agency environment. Growth opportunities are linked to both deepening design expertise and enhancing leadership capabilities, aligning with career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex interior design project you led from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, how did you manage stakeholders, and what was the ultimate outcome?" (Focus on process, leadership, and impact.)

• "How do you approach mentoring junior designers? Provide an example of how you've helped a team member grow their skills." (Demonstrate leadership and team development.)

• "How do you ensure client satisfaction when managing multiple projects with competing priorities?" (Highlight client management and communication skills.)

• "Explain your understanding of 'Multidimensional Experiences' (MDX) and how you would apply this concept in a hospitality design project." (Showcase research and alignment with Journey's philosophy.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Journey and our MDX approach?" (Research the company's website, projects, and values.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative and innovative design culture within your team?" (Relate to your leadership style and experience.)

• "Describe a time you had to deliver difficult feedback to a team member or client. How did you handle it?" (Assess communication and conflict resolution skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation around the story of each project, emphasizing your leadership role, problem-solving process, and the measurable impact of your design decisions.

• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality visuals but ensure they support your narrative, not replace it. Highlight key design features and how they address client needs.

• Focus on Process: Detail your approach to client engagement, team management, and quality control. Show how you translate concepts into tangible deliverables.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, present metrics related to budget adherence, project timelines, client satisfaction scores, or any other relevant performance indicators.

• Tailor to MDX: If possible, connect your past work to the principles of multidimensional experiences, or articulate how you would integrate this approach in future projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation advice is tailored to a senior design leadership role, focusing on strategic thinking, client management, team leadership, and understanding the company's unique value proposition (MDX). The portfolio presentation strategy emphasizes storytelling and demonstrating impact beyond just aesthetics.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your resume and portfolio through the provided application link on Greenhouse.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your experience leading complex design projects, managing client relationships, and mentoring junior designers. Highlight specific examples of your leadership in interior or architectural design from concept through completion.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of post-graduate experience, proficiency in required software (AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, Adobe Suite), and any relevant hospitality industry experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Manager," "Project Leadership," "Client Engagement," and "Team Mentorship."

• Cover Letter Crafting: Write a compelling cover letter explaining how your experience directly meets the required criteria. Specifically address your leadership capabilities, client management successes, and your understanding of Journey's "Multidimensional Experience" (MDX) approach.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Journey, their portfolio, and their MDX philosophy. Be prepared to articulate how your skills and vision align with their mission and values during the interview process.

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