Design Manager - The Manner

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - The Manner

Company: The Manner

Location: 58 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Hospitality Design & Operations Management

Date Posted: April 13, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and implement interior design initiatives for a flagship lifestyle hospitality property, ensuring brand consistency and market relevance.

• Manage FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) and OS&E (Operating Supplies & Equipment) projects from conception through execution, adhering to budget and timelines.

• Collaborate with General Managers, Senior Executives, and Corporate Design Teams to maintain and enhance the property's aesthetic and operational design ethos.

• Drive seasonal activations and special event staging, integrating creative concepts with brand standards and client requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for establishing and maintaining the unique brand identity of The Manner's flagship SoHo property, requiring a blend of creative vision, project management rigor, and deep understanding of the hospitality operational landscape. The emphasis on "staging" and "finishing touches" highlights a high degree of attention to detail in presentation and guest experience.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist the Regional Design Manager in developing, processing, and executing all FF&E, remodel, repair, and maintenance projects.

• Act as the primary point of contact for all hotel design projects, coordinating with internal departments and external vendors to ensure timely and satisfactory completion of requests.

• Support departments in preparing scopes of work, requests for proposals (RFPs), and project schedules for renovation and FF&E initiatives.

• Oversee the accurate production of bid/construction sets, ensuring timely completion, necessary permits, and adherence to all design and construction document requirements.

• Review all bids, proposals, and invoices to ensure they align with budget allocations and payment schedules.

• Maintain clear and accurate reporting of active, pending, and completed projects for both corporate and ownership stakeholders, including detailed punch lists.

• Ensure all design and creative interior elements throughout the hotel reflect The Manner's brand values, DNA, and identity, acting as a brand ambassador.

• Take responsibility for the final staging of all guest rooms, suites, and public areas, including floral/planting schemes, fragrances, lighting, and decorative objects.

• Conduct daily walk-rounds to inspect the staging of restaurants, bars, and entertainment outlets, ensuring they meet brand standards and seasonal theme requirements.

• Train and coach colleagues on design concepts and staging requirements, including seasonal design elements and holiday themes.

• Own the design and proposal of seasonal set-ups (e.g., holidays) in collaboration with the Regional Design Manager and General Manager, ensuring alignment with budget and timelines.

• Support design requests for special events in conjunction with the Events and Marketing teams, ensuring alignment with brand standards and bespoke client needs.

• Coordinate with the Director of Marketing & Culture to stage photo shoots or filming, ensuring pre-shoot inspections and adherence to brand guidelines.

• Implement Creative and Design Policies & Procedures, cascading them to relevant teams and maintaining a directory of design language for internal and external communication.

• Assist in managing colleague styling to ensure uniforms and grooming standards adhere to brand guidelines, developing styling guides for non-uniformed employees.

• Provide strong leadership and direction to the hotel leadership team, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment that embodies the brand ethos.

• Partner with the Hotel Leadership team to support key performance indicators (KPIs) and objectives for hotel performance.

• Lead by example, demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and a passionate, fun, and enthusiastic approach to work.

• Promote a culture of teamwork and collaboration, ensuring effective communication across all departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate a dual focus: operational project management of design and construction elements, and creative stewardship of the brand's aesthetic. The "hands-on" nature of the role is emphasized through tasks like daily walk-rounds and direct training, indicating a need for a candidate comfortable in both strategic and tactical execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in interior design, architecture, construction, or project management, with a strong emphasis on hospitality environments.

Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of the New York City hotel market and current design trends.

• Familiarity with New York City building, construction, and engineering codes.

• Proficiency in design software: AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator).

• Experience with project management software: Microsoft Project, Procore.

• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.

• Ability to produce detailed design proposals, costings, and plans.

• Exceptional attention to detail across various design styles.

• Strong administrative and IT skills, including Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Skills:

• Hotel experience is considered an advantage.

• Familiarity with local suppliers, designers, and partners within the arts, fashion, and cultural events sectors in NYC.

• Experience with 3D modeling software such as Rhino or Sketch-Up.

• Experience with OS&E procurement and management.

• Demonstrated ability to train and coach teams on design concepts and brand standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific New York tri-state area experience and familiarity with local codes and market trends is a significant differentiator. Proficiency in a range of design and project management software is essential, with specific mentions of Procore and AutoCAD pointing towards a need for robust construction documentation and project tracking capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 distinct projects demonstrating successful interior design and renovation management within the hospitality sector.

• Projects should highlight your ability to translate brand DNA into tangible design elements and operational aesthetics.

• Include examples of FF&E and OS&E procurement, installation, and budget management.

• Demonstrate experience in managing projects from concept development to final execution and handover.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of project management methodologies used, including scope definition, scheduling, budgeting, and vendor coordination.

• Showcase documentation related to construction sets, bid packages, and permit applications.

• Include samples of reporting mechanisms for project status, budget tracking, and issue resolution.

• Demonstrate experience in developing and implementing brand guidelines and design standards through look books or policy documents.

• Illustrate processes for seasonal activation planning and execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, not just for showcasing design aesthetics but also for demonstrating practical project management skills in a complex hospitality environment. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their process for managing budgets, timelines, and vendor relationships, as well as their approach to maintaining brand consistency across all design touchpoints.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $95,000 - $105,000 USD per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision).

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

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company match.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education in design and hospitality.

• Employee discounts on hotel stays and dining.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexibility required to meet project deadlines and operational needs, including potential evenings and weekends for events and urgent issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a Design Manager role with significant responsibility in a high-profile NYC location. While a standard 40-hour week is listed, the nature of hospitality and project management implies a need for adaptability and willingness to work beyond standard hours when required.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Hospitality (Luxury Lifestyle Hotels)

Company Size: The Manner is described as a "new Lifestyle Brand" with a "flagship property." While precise employee numbers aren't given, the context suggests a growing, dynamic organization focused on creating a unique guest experience. The corporate team is based in New York.

Founded: The Manner is a new brand, implying an innovative and forward-thinking culture.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will work in partnership with the General Manager, Senior Executive team, and Corporate Design team in New York.

• Close collaboration is expected with Engineering, Events, Marketing, and HR departments.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making in design implementation and project management.

• Emphasis on maintaining brand DNA and local market resonance.

• Collaborative approach to project execution, involving cross-functional teams.

• Focus on delivering a detail and service-oriented guest experience.

• Structured approach to project management, including RFPs, bid processes, and reporting.

Company Website: https://themanner.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's "new Lifestyle Brand" status suggests a culture that values innovation, creativity, and a hands-on approach. The emphasis on "brand DNA" and "local SoHo, NYC market resonance" indicates a need for a candidate who can balance global brand standards with local market insights.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a management-level position within the operations and design function of the hospitality group. It requires significant experience and carries direct responsibility for key aesthetic and project outcomes.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports to the General Manager of the property and collaborates closely with the Regional Design Manager and Senior Executive team.

Operations Impact:

• Directly influences the guest experience and brand perception through the aesthetic quality and functionality of the property.

• Contributes to operational efficiency by ensuring well-managed design projects and clear standards for all staff.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to advance to Regional Design Manager or similar leadership roles within The Manner's expanding portfolio.

• Opportunity to shape and evolve the design language of a new, prominent lifestyle brand.

• Development in strategic planning for large-scale hospitality projects and brand activations.

• Potential to gain expertise in luxury hospitality operations and cross-functional management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a candidate passionate about hospitality design, this role offers a significant opportunity to be instrumental in the launch and growth of a new brand. The direct impact on guest experience and brand identity provides a clear path for career advancement within a burgeoning organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the flagship property, The Manner SoHo, a luxury lifestyle hotel. This means the work environment is dynamic, customer-facing, and fast-paced, blending operational demands with creative project oversight.

Office Location(s): 58 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012. This is a prime location in the vibrant SoHo district, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and cultural scene.

Workspace Context:

• The Design Manager will have access to office space within the hotel, potentially shared with other operational leads.

• The environment necessitates frequent interaction with hotel staff, guests, vendors, and contractors.

• Access to hotel amenities and the surrounding SoHo neighborhood will be part of the daily experience.

• Expect a blend of desk work (design software, reporting, planning) and on-site project management and inspections.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, but flexibility is crucial. This includes potential evening and weekend work to oversee events, address urgent operational design issues, and ensure timely project completion, especially during critical installation phases or seasonal activations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is an on-site role requiring a strong presence at the flagship property. The candidate must be comfortable working in a busy hotel environment and be adept at balancing administrative tasks with hands-on site management and client-facing responsibilities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An interview with the General Manager and/or Regional Design Manager to discuss experience, project management approach, and cultural fit.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where candidates present their design portfolio, focusing on relevant hospitality projects, renovation management, and brand alignment. Be prepared to discuss your process, challenges, and outcomes in detail.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders from departments like Engineering, Operations, and Marketing to assess collaboration style and understanding of operational needs.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership for a final assessment of strategic alignment and leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your experience in hospitality design, renovations, FF&E/OS&E management, and brand implementation. Prioritize projects completed in the NYC area.

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the design challenges, your problem-solving approach, the process you followed (including budget and timeline management), and the measurable impact (e.g., guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, brand consistency).

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics where possible. For example, "Managed a $X renovation budget," "Completed project Y weeks ahead of schedule," or "Improved guest room staging efficiency by Z%."

• Showcase Technical Skills: Be ready to discuss your proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Procore, and any other relevant software.

• Demonstrate Brand Understanding: Explain how you would apply The Manner's brand DNA to the SoHo property and how you ensure brand consistency across different design touchpoints.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for case study questions related to managing design conflicts, budget overruns, or tight renovation timelines in a live hotel environment.

• Practice articulating your design vision and how it aligns with business objectives and operational realities.

• Prepare to discuss your understanding of the SoHo market and how it influences design choices.

• Anticipate questions about leadership style, team collaboration, and managing diverse stakeholder needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio presentation is a critical component. Candidates should prepare a concise, impactful presentation that not only showcases visual work but also demonstrates their strategic thinking, project management capabilities, and understanding of hospitality operations and brand stewardship.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: AutoCAD (essential for construction documents), Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator for presentations, mood boards, and graphic elements).

• Project Management Software: Procore (highly preferred for construction project management, documentation, and collaboration), Microsoft Project (for scheduling and timeline management).

• 3D Modeling (Plus): Rhino, Sketch-Up (for visualization and conceptualization).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Office Suite (Excel for budgeting and reporting, PowerPoint for presentations).

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly a CRM role, familiarity with systems that manage vendor contracts, procurement orders, and project documentation is beneficial.

• Experience with systems that automate reporting or workflow approvals within a project management context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. The explicit mention of Procore indicates a strong preference for candidates familiar with construction management platforms that streamline communication, documentation, and progress tracking on site.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Brand Integrity: Upholding and enhancing The Manner's unique brand identity and design ethos in all aspects of the property.

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to meticulous detail, quality craftsmanship, and delivering projects on time and within budget.

• Collaborative Spirit: Fostering strong partnerships across departments (Engineering, Marketing, Events, Operations) to achieve shared goals.

• Guest-Centricity: Ensuring all design decisions and operational implementations contribute to an exceptional guest experience.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new trends and creative solutions while remaining grounded in operational feasibility and market relevance.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and communicative, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and engaged.

• Partnership-driven, working closely with department heads and the corporate team to integrate design with operational needs.

• Problem-solving oriented, addressing challenges collaboratively and finding efficient solutions.

• Mentorship and coaching approach for colleagues, sharing design knowledge and brand standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company emphasizes professionalism, integrity, and a passionate, fun, and enthusiastic approach. The Design Manager is expected to be a role model, embodying these values and fostering a positive, cohesive, and supportive working environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand with Local Market: Ensuring the design resonates with the specific SoHo, NYC market while adhering to the global brand DNA of The Manner.

• Managing Renovation in a Live Environment: Executing projects with minimal disruption to hotel operations, guest experience, and staff workflow.

• Budgetary Constraints: Delivering high-quality design outcomes within defined project budgets and securing necessary FF&E/OS&E approvals.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Effectively communicating design intent and requirements to diverse teams (e.g., engineering, marketing) who may have different priorities.

• Maintaining Aesthetic Standards: Continuously overseeing and enforcing the "finishing touches" and design ethos across all guest-facing areas.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Strategic Design Leadership: Gaining experience in shaping the design direction of a new, high-profile hospitality brand.

• Project Management Expertise: Deepening skills in managing complex, multi-faceted construction and renovation projects in a luxury environment.

• Cross-Industry Collaboration: Working with teams in marketing, events, and culture to integrate design into broader brand initiatives.

• Market Trend Analysis: Staying abreast of evolving design trends in hospitality and the competitive NYC market.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior staff and influence hotel-wide operational standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for growth by tackling the challenges of establishing a new brand's identity and operationalizing its design vision in a competitive market. Success here can lead to broader responsibilities within the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance a strong brand design guideline with specific local market preferences. How did you achieve this?" (Focus on your process for research, stakeholder management, and creative problem-solving.)

• "Walk us through a complex renovation project you managed in a live hotel environment. What were the key challenges, your approach to mitigating disruption, and the outcome?" (Highlight your project management skills, risk assessment, and operational awareness.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about The Manner's brand and its flagship SoHo property specifically?" (Show you've researched the brand, its ethos, and the location.)

• "How would you foster a collaborative design culture between the corporate design team and the on-site operational teams?" (Focus on communication, empathy, and shared objectives.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation with a clear beginning (project goal/challenge), middle (your process, solutions, challenges faced), and end (results, impact, lessons learned).

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images, floor plans, and mood boards. For renovation projects, show before-and-after visuals.

• Quantify Impact: Clearly state budget figures, timelines, and any measurable improvements achieved.

• Focus on Relevance: Emphasize projects that align with hospitality, renovations, and brand implementation. For The Manner, highlight projects that show an understanding of luxury, lifestyle, and the NYC market.

• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss your software proficiency and how you use tools like AutoCAD and Procore in your workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who is not only a talented designer but also a skilled project manager and a strategic brand steward. Demonstrating an understanding of hospitality operations and the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the icims portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to specifically highlight your experience in hospitality interior design, renovation management, FF&E/OS&E, and project management within the New York tri-state area. Ensure your portfolio is readily accessible and showcases your most relevant work.

• Resume Optimization: Use keywords from the job description such as "Interior Design," "Project Management," "FF&E," "OS&E," "Hospitality," "Renovation," "AutoCAD," "Procore," and "Brand DNA." Quantify your achievements with numbers and metrics.

• Interview Preparation: Practice your portfolio presentation, focusing on clear communication of your process, challenges, and results. Prepare answers to common interview questions related to design strategy, project management, and brand stewardship.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research The Manner's brand, its values, and its positioning as a new lifestyle brand. Understand the significance of the SoHo location and its market.

⚠️ 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.