Design Manager - Brand Experience

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Brand Experience

Company: Gensler

Location: New York, NY, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Brand Experience Design / Project Management

Date Posted: April 22, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage complex, multidisciplinary experiential design projects from concept through completion, ensuring strategic vision and design excellence.

• Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships, serving as the primary point of contact and trusted advisor for strategic, experiential, and design-led initiatives.

• Oversee all facets of project delivery, including scope, quality, schedule, budget, and financial performance, while proactively managing risks and changes.

• Coordinate and guide diverse project teams, encompassing designers, strategists, technologists, architects, and external partners, to achieve seamless integration and optimal project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level Design Manager with a strong emphasis on client relationship leadership and end-to-end project ownership within the Brand Experience Design Studio. The focus is on managing complex, multidisciplinary projects, indicating a need for robust project management, strategic thinking, and strong interpersonal skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Drive client engagements by leading strategic conversations, defining project visions, and ensuring the delivery of innovative, high-impact brand experiences.

• Develop comprehensive project scopes, detailed work plans, accurate staffing models, and meticulous budgets, with ongoing active management of risks and change orders.

• Monitor and report on project financials, resource allocation, team performance, and key performance indicators (KPIs) against established project goals.

• Act as a central liaison, facilitating clear and effective communication between internal Gensler studios, external disciplines, and third-party vendors to ensure cohesive project execution.

• Contribute significantly to business development efforts by assisting in proposal creation, project pursuits, and the strategic expansion of client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on client management and operational project execution. The emphasis on "strategic growth of client relationships" and "new business development" suggests this role extends beyond pure project delivery to include account management and business expansion within the Brand Experience Design Studio.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant discipline (e.g., Design, Architecture, Communications, Business).

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in a design consultancy, agency, architecture/interiors firm, or a related field, with at least 5 years specifically managing multidisciplinary creative teams and complex client engagements. Demonstrated experience delivering large-scale, multidisciplinary experiential projects (e.g., innovation centers, experience centers, exhibitions, branded environments).

Required Skills:

• Expertise in client relationship management, building trust, and leading strategic conversations.

• Proficiency in end-to-end project management, including scope definition, work planning, budget development, and financial tracking.

• Strong leadership capabilities to manage and motivate multidisciplinary project teams.

• Exceptional verbal, written, and presentation communication skills, with a proven ability to articulate complex ideas clearly.

• High degree of organization and attention to detail, with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.

• Demonstrated experience in risk management and change control processes.

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Excel.

Preferred Skills:

• Comfort reading and interpreting architectural drawings.

• Familiarity with project management software and methodologies.

• Experience collaborating within architectural workflows.

• Strategic thinking and ability to translate client vision into tangible design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements are substantial, indicating that candidates should have a proven track record in managing significant projects and client portfolios. The preference for architectural drawing interpretation and collaboration within architectural workflows suggests a close integration with Gensler's core architectural services.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful management of large-scale, multidisciplinary experiential projects, showcasing end-to-end delivery from concept to completion.

• Include case studies that highlight exceptional client relationship management and strategic partnership development.

• Provide evidence of managing complex project scopes, budgets, and schedules, with clear metrics on financial performance and efficiency.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate a structured approach to project planning, including detailed work plans, staffing models, and risk mitigation strategies.

• Present examples of how you have managed project financials, tracked performance against goals, and handled scope changes.

• Detail your methods for fostering seamless integration and communication across internal studios, external disciplines, and vendors.

• Include examples of contributions to proposal development and business development efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software proficiency is mentioned, the portfolio emphasis is on demonstrating successful project leadership and client management within complex, multidisciplinary environments. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their process for managing projects, teams, and client expectations, with quantifiable results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The base salary is estimated to be between $120,000 - $150,000 per year. This range is contingent on relevant experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Wellness programs and flexible spending accounts.

• Paid time off, including holidays and paid time off (PTO).

• Retirement savings plan (401k) with profit sharing and employee stock ownership options.

• Twice annual bonus opportunities.

• Reimbursement for certain professional licenses, renewals, and exam fees.

• Tuition reimbursement for eligible programs or classes.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are expected to be 40 hours per week, consistent with a full-time role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on the information given and industry benchmarks for a Design Manager role with 10+ years of experience in New York City. The comprehensive benefits package indicates a strong commitment to employee well-being and professional development, which is typical for large, established firms like Gensler.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Design, and Planning. Gensler is a global leader in the industry, known for its innovative approach to design and its broad range of project typologies.

Company Size: Gensler is a large, global firm with a significant employee base, indicating a structured environment with ample resources and opportunities for cross-studio collaboration.

Founded: Gensler was founded in 1965, signifying a long history of industry experience and established best practices.

Team Structure:

• The Brand Experience Design Studio is a specialized unit within Gensler, focusing on creating immersive and engaging environments.

• The Design Manager will likely report to a Studio Director or Practice Area Leader within the Brand Experience team.

Methodology:

• Gensler's approach emphasizes a collaborative, multidisciplinary process, integrating strategy, design, and technology to deliver client-centric solutions.

• The Brand Experience Studio likely follows a project management methodology that balances creative exploration with rigorous execution and client feedback loops.

• Emphasis is placed on data-informed design strategies and storytelling to create meaningful and impactful experiences.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: As a well-established global design firm, Gensler likely fosters a culture of design excellence, innovation, and client service. The Brand Experience Design Studio operates at the forefront of creating impactful environments, requiring a blend of creative vision and disciplined project execution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management position, requiring significant experience in leading complex projects and client relationships. It represents a key leadership role within the Brand Experience Design Studio, with responsibilities that impact both client satisfaction and business growth.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a higher-level leader within the Brand Experience Studio or a Practice Area Leader. They will, in turn, manage and guide multidisciplinary project teams.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on client success and Gensler's reputation by ensuring the successful delivery of strategic, high-profile brand experience projects. Effective management contributes to client retention, repeat business, and the studio's overall financial performance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advance to senior leadership roles within the Brand Experience Design Studio or other Gensler practice areas.

• Develop deeper expertise in specific sectors of brand experience design (e.g., innovation centers, retail environments, digital-physical integrations).

• Expand business development and client relationship management skills, potentially leading to account management or practice leadership roles.

• Opportunities for professional development through Gensler's robust learning programs, licensure support, and tuition reimbursement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant step for experienced design and project managers looking to leverage their skills in a strategic leadership capacity within a globally recognized design firm. Career progression is likely tied to successful project delivery, client relationship building, and contributions to business development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Gensler operates state-of-the-art design studios that are typically designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and client interaction. These spaces often blend open work areas with private meeting rooms and presentation spaces.

Office Location(s): New York, NY. This location is a major hub for design and business, offering a dynamic and diverse professional environment.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to be highly collaborative, encouraging interaction among designers, strategists, technologists, and project managers.

• Access to advanced technology, design software, and presentation tools is standard.

• Opportunities for regular interaction with design leaders, project teams, and clients in a dynamic studio setting.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, on-site, with an expected 40-hour work week. However, project demands may require flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration, client engagement, and leveraging the firm's physical resources. The New York City location offers proximity to a vast network of clients and industry partners.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and resumes to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your experience in managing multidisciplinary teams, client relationships, and complex experiential projects. Be prepared to provide specific examples.

• Portfolio Review: A presentation of your portfolio, highlighting key projects, your role, the challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved. Focus on your contributions to strategic vision, design execution, and client satisfaction.

• Team/Panel Interview: Meetings with potential colleagues and senior leaders to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and strategic thinking.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive to discuss overall fit and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate 3-5 of your most impactful multidisciplinary brand experience projects.

• For each project, clearly articulate your role, the client's objectives, the strategic approach, the design solutions, and the measurable results.

• Emphasize your leadership in managing client relationships, multidisciplinary teams, and project financials.

• Be prepared to discuss your process for navigating challenges, managing stakeholders, and ensuring project success.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical client scenarios, focusing on how you would approach problem-solving, stakeholder management, and project planning.

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of Gensler's work and how your experience aligns with their brand experience design philosophy.

• Practice presenting your project case studies concisely and effectively, highlighting key achievements and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess not only your project management skills but also your strategic thinking, client-facing abilities, and fit within Gensler's collaborative culture. A strong portfolio demonstrating successful delivery of complex experiential projects is critical.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for reviewing and understanding design concepts and presentations.

• Microsoft Word & Excel: Crucial for project documentation, financial tracking, and reporting.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Monday.com, Smartsheet, or similar platforms for work planning, task management, and team coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Comfort in interpreting project performance data, budget reports, and client satisfaction metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly stated, experience with CRM systems for client management and engagement tracking can be beneficial.

• Familiarity with tools that support workflow automation within project delivery processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in standard office productivity software and project management tools is expected. While specific CRM or advanced automation tool requirements aren't detailed, an understanding of how these systems support project delivery and client management will be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

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

• Design Excellence: A passion for creating innovative, impactful, and high-quality brand experiences.

• Collaboration: A belief in the power of teamwork, cross-disciplinary integration, and open communication.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards and taking ownership of project outcomes.

• Innovation: Continuously seeking new ideas, technologies, and approaches to elevate design solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Emphasis on a multidisciplinary, integrated approach, encouraging open dialogue and shared problem-solving across diverse teams.

• A culture of constructive feedback and continuous learning, where team members support each other's growth.

• Strong client engagement is paramount, requiring proactive communication and partnership building.

📝 Enhancement Note: Gensler's culture likely emphasizes a high level of professionalism, creativity, and a strong work ethic, balanced with a commitment to employee well-being. The Brand Experience Studio, in particular, would value individuals who can blend strategic thinking with creative execution and foster strong client partnerships.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing multiple large-scale, complex projects concurrently with competing deadlines and client demands.

• Balancing creative ambition with strict budget and schedule constraints.

• Navigating diverse stakeholder needs and expectations across client organizations and internal teams.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Access to Gensler's extensive internal training programs, design research, and knowledge-sharing platforms.

• Opportunities to work on high-profile projects with industry-leading clients.

• Mentorship from senior leaders within the Brand Experience Studio and across Gensler.

• Support for professional development, including licensure, certifications, and further education.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges due to the complexity and scale of projects, but also offers substantial opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and career advancement within a leading global design firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex, multidisciplinary experiential project from start to finish. What was your specific role, what were the key challenges, and what was the outcome?"

• "How do you approach building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with high-profile clients?"

• "Walk me through your process for developing a project scope, budget, and schedule for a large-scale branded environment. How do you manage risks and changes?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Gensler's Brand Experience Design Studio specifically, and how does your experience align with our approach?"

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment and foster a culture of design excellence?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on demonstrating your strategic thinking, leadership, and client management capabilities.

• For each case study, clearly articulate the client's business objectives and how your project solutions addressed them.

• Quantify project outcomes whenever possible (e.g., client satisfaction scores, impact on brand perception, ROI if applicable).

• Be prepared to discuss your specific contributions and decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will heavily weigh your ability to articulate your experience in managing complex projects, leading teams, and fostering client relationships. A strong understanding of Gensler's brand experience portfolio and a clear demonstration of how your skills align with the company's values and methodologies will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Gensler careers portal.

• Customize your resume to highlight your experience in project management, client relationship leadership, and managing multidisciplinary creative teams, using keywords from the job description.

• Prepare a strong portfolio that showcases 3-5 relevant, large-scale experiential design projects, detailing your role, process, and outcomes.

• Research Gensler's Brand Experience Design Studio's recent projects and client work to understand their approach and tailor your interview responses.

• Be prepared to discuss your experience with project financials, scope management, and business development support during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.

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