Head of Design Technology

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Design Technology

Company: Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG)

Location: Copenhagen, Denmark

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Category: Design Technology / Computational Design Leadership

Date Posted: 2026-08-26

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and foster the growth of BIG's Design Technology (DT) team in Copenhagen, establishing a clear strategic direction for core disciplines including BIM, Computational Design, AI, Sustainability, Model Shop, and Visualization.

• Serve as a hands-on leader, deeply involved in the practical application of DT principles, including tool development, application deployment, and problem-solving on live, deadline-driven architectural projects.

• Drive the practical adoption and integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across the studio, evaluating, implementing, and scaling AI tools and workflows within existing BIM and computational design processes.

• Shape and execute the local Design Technology roadmap, ensuring alignment with BIG's overarching global DT strategy and the specific project priorities of the Copenhagen studio.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior, influential leadership position within the Design Technology function. The emphasis on "leading from the front" and being "deeply involved in the work itself" indicates a preference for a practitioner-leader rather than a purely managerial role. The strategic integration of AI and its application in architectural design and delivery is a critical component, aligning with BIG's stated ambition to be an AI-enabled organization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Copenhagen Design Technology team, guiding departmental leads in BIM, computational design, AI, Sustainability, Model Shop, and Visualization.

• Define and execute a comprehensive local Design Technology roadmap, ensuring it supports BIG's global DT strategy and studio project demands.

• Champion and facilitate the practical integration of AI technologies into design and construction workflows, including the evaluation and scaling of AI tools.

• Enhance the studio's capabilities in AI and Visualization, building necessary talent and tooling for these growth areas.

• Actively contribute to the development and review of custom tools, scripts, and plugins for platforms such as Rhino, Grasshopper, and Revit, directly supporting complex project deliverables.

• Collaborate with the Office BIM Manager to establish and refine digital standards, templates, and assets, ensuring seamless interoperability between design and BIM environments.

• Spearhead the process of embedding new methods and workflows into project teams, providing direct technical support for critical and complex initiatives.

• Foster collaboration with the global Design Technology team to standardize workflows, share innovative tools, and contribute to firm-wide best practices.

• Oversee the Copenhagen Model Shop and Sustainability teams, with potential for expanded scope over time.

• Manage team resourcing, prioritize cross-project demands, and represent Design Technology interests in studio-wide decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on strategic leadership and direct technical contribution. The inclusion of "Model Shop" and "Sustainability" under the DT umbrella suggests a holistic approach to design technology that extends beyond digital tools to encompass physical fabrication and environmental performance integration. The emphasis on embedding new methods into projects underscores the practical, applied nature of the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Background in Architecture or a related design discipline is essential, providing a foundational understanding of the building design and delivery lifecycle.

Experience: 10+ years of professional experience in Design Technology, Computational Design, or a closely related technical field, with demonstrated experience in leading or mentoring a team.

Required Skills:

• Proven leadership ability and a track record of driving change within large, fast-paced creative or technical organizations; a proactive "doer" who leads by example.

• High proficiency in Rhino, Grasshopper, and scripting languages such as Python and/or C#.

• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) and established software development and deployment practices.

• Demonstrated experience with cloud platforms, APIs, or the development of web-based tools.

• Solid understanding and practical experience with Revit and BIM workflows, including familiarity with interoperability tools like Rhino.Inside.Revit, Dynamo, or Speckle.

• Hands-on experience in evaluating, deploying, and scaling AI tools and platforms within a design, architecture, or AEC context.

• Strong grasp of computational geometry, data structures, and parametric modeling principles.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and project management skills, with the ability to effectively influence designers, engineers, and leadership.

• Thorough understanding of building design and project delivery phases from a firsthand perspective.

• Fluent command of English, both written and spoken. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in developing Design Technology strategies or standards for multi-office or international organizations, particularly those influenced by emerging AI methodologies.

• Familiarity with machine learning frameworks, generative design concepts, or advanced data analytics techniques.

• Experience with real-time visualization software such as Unreal Engine, Twinmotion, or Enscape.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of deep technical expertise in core architectural software and scripting, combined with strong leadership and change management capabilities. The explicit requirement for hands-on AI experience is a significant differentiator, reflecting the company's strategic focus. A background in architecture is crucial, indicating that technical skills must be applied within the context of architectural practice.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a history of developing and implementing innovative design technology solutions that have directly improved project efficiency, quality, or delivery timelines.

• Showcase case studies of custom tools, scripts, or plugins developed for Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit, or similar platforms, highlighting the problems they solved and the outcomes achieved.

• Include examples of your involvement in defining or evolving digital standards, templates, or interoperability workflows within an architectural context.

• Present evidence of your leadership in team development, process optimization, and the adoption of new technologies, with a particular focus on AI integration if applicable. Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your approach to documenting and standardizing design technology workflows, from initial concept and development to deployment and ongoing support.

• Provide examples of how you have mapped, analyzed, and optimized existing design processes to enhance efficiency and reduce friction for project teams.

• Showcase instances where you have successfully embedded new computational design or AI-driven methods into live project workflows, detailing the implementation strategy and impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this senior role, the portfolio is critical for demonstrating practical impact and leadership. Candidates should curate examples that not only showcase technical prowess but also strategic thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to drive adoption of new technologies within a complex creative environment. The emphasis on "embedding new methods" and "solving real problems" requires portfolio content that clearly articulates the "before" and "after" states of processes and projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the seniority of the "Head of" title, 10+ years of experience, leadership responsibilities, and the high cost of living in Copenhagen, a competitive annual salary range for this role is estimated to be between 700,000 DKK and 1,100,000 DKK. This estimate accounts for the specialized nature of design technology leadership, the demand for AI expertise, and typical compensation benchmarks for senior technical roles in Denmark.

Benefits:

• A creative and inspiring work environment within a globally renowned architectural firm.

• Opportunity to work with a diverse, international team of talented professionals.

• Salary scheme that is commensurate with experience and qualifications, reflecting the value of specialized skills and leadership.

• Potential for professional development and growth within a forward-thinking organization focused on technological advancement.

• Contribution to shaping the future of AI-enabled architectural design and delivery.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are assumed to be approximately 40 hours per week, aligning with typical full-time employment in Denmark. However, given the "hands-on leadership" nature of the role and the project-driven environment, flexibility and commitment beyond standard hours may be expected, especially around project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research of senior technical and leadership roles in Copenhagen, Denmark, considering the specific demands of Design Technology leadership, AI integration, and the architectural industry. Benefits are drawn directly from the provided text and supplemented with industry standard expectations for a role of this caliber.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Urban Planning, and Design. BIG operates at the forefront of the global built environment sector, known for its innovative and often avant-garde architectural solutions.

Company Size: Bjarke Ingels Group is a large, internationally recognized firm with multiple studios worldwide. This implies a structured yet dynamic environment with significant resources and a complex project portfolio.

Founded: BIG was founded in 2005. Its relatively young age, coupled with rapid growth and a focus on innovation, suggests a culture that is agile, forward-thinking, and embraces new technologies and methodologies.

Team Structure:

• The Design Technology department is a global function, with the Copenhagen DT team being a significant local hub. The Head of DT Copenhagen will report to both local leadership and the Chief Design Technology Officer, indicating a matrixed reporting structure that balances local studio needs with global strategic alignment.

• The DT team in Copenhagen will include departmental leads for BIM, Computational Design, AI, Sustainability, Model Shop, and Visualization, suggesting specialized sub-teams within the broader DT function.

• Collaboration is expected across various internal teams, including project teams, BIM managers, and the global DT network, as well as potentially with external technology partners. Methodology:

• BIG's approach to Design Technology is deeply integrated into its design process, emphasizing innovation, efficiency, and the exploration of new possibilities through technology.

• The emphasis on AI, computational design, and advanced visualization points towards a methodology that leverages data-driven insights and algorithmic approaches to enhance creative output and project delivery.

• The commitment to "embedding new methods and workflows into projects" suggests a practical, iterative methodology focused on real-world application and continuous improvement.

Company Website: https://big.dk/

📝 Enhancement Note: BIG's culture is characterized by innovation, ambition, and a strong emphasis on pushing boundaries in architecture through technology. The Design Technology team plays a pivotal role in realizing this vision. The "leader from the front" ethos suggests a culture that values hands-on contribution, expertise, and proactive problem-solving.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership position, equivalent to a Director or Head of Department level within a specialized technical function. It demands a high degree of autonomy, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence at multiple organizational levels. The role is responsible for defining and executing a significant part of the company's technological strategy for its largest studio.

Reporting Structure: The Head of DT Copenhagen will report to the local Copenhagen leadership and the Chief Design Technology Officer. This dual reporting structure ensures both local studio alignment and adherence to global DT strategy and standards.

Operations Impact: The Head of DT will have a profound impact on the efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness of BIG's Copenhagen studio. By leading the integration of advanced technologies like AI, computational design, and improved BIM workflows, this role directly influences the quality of design output, the speed of project delivery, and the firm's ability to tackle complex design challenges. This role is central to BIG's ambition to be a leading AI-enabled architectural organization.

Growth Opportunities:

• Strategic Leadership: Opportunity to shape and expand the Design Technology function globally, potentially influencing the direction of AI adoption and computational design across all BIG studios.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in cutting-edge technologies, particularly AI and generative design, by leading their application in high-profile architectural projects.

• Team Building & Mentorship: Build and scale a high-performing Design Technology team, developing talent and fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence.

• Cross-functional Influence: Gain broader influence within the organization by collaborating with project leaders, studio directors, and executive management on technological strategy and implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant growth potential, moving beyond pure technical execution to strategic influence and team development. The ability to contribute to BIG's global technological vision and lead in emerging areas like AI integration presents a unique career trajectory for a Design Technology professional.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Copenhagen, within BIG's studio. Architectural studios are typically dynamic, collaborative, and visually stimulating environments, often featuring open-plan areas, meeting rooms, material libraries, and fabrication labs (like the Model Shop).

Office Location(s): Copenhagen, Denmark. This location offers a vibrant urban setting with a strong design and technology ecosystem.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be highly collaborative, requiring constant interaction with architects, designers, project managers, and other DT team members. The environment is expected to foster creativity and problem-solving.

• Access to a robust technology stack, including high-performance computing, specialized software, and potentially a dedicated Model Shop, will be integral to the role.

• Opportunities for direct engagement with project teams on-site will be frequent, facilitating rapid feedback loops and iterative development of DT solutions.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the demands of project deadlines and the hands-on leadership nature of this role may require flexibility and occasional work beyond standard hours. The focus is on achieving project goals and driving technological adoption, which may necessitate adapting schedules as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the collaborative and project-driven nature of BIG's work. The environment is likely to be fast-paced, innovative, and demanding, requiring individuals who thrive in such settings and can directly contribute to the studio's creative and technical output.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV, portfolio, and motivation letter to assess alignment with core requirements, particularly experience in leadership, architectural context, and technical skills (Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit, AI).

• Technical & Leadership Assessment: In-depth interviews focusing on leadership philosophy, team management strategies, technical problem-solving skills, and hands-on experience with computational design and AI applications. This may involve case study discussions or technical deep dives.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where the candidate presents key projects from their portfolio, demonstrating their impact, problem-solving approach, and technical capabilities, with a focus on how they drove change and delivered value.

• Cultural Fit & Vision Alignment: Discussions with local and global leadership to assess cultural fit, understanding of BIG's ethos, and alignment with the company's vision for AI-enabled architecture.

• Final Interview: Meeting with senior leadership to discuss the strategic vision for the DT department in Copenhagen and confirm final selection.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Impact: Select projects that clearly demonstrate leadership, strategic thinking, and tangible results in design technology, computational design, or AI implementation within an architectural context.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your approach, the technologies used (Rhino, Grasshopper, Python, AI tools, etc.), and the quantifiable outcomes or improvements achieved.

• Highlight Leadership: Include examples of team leadership, mentorship, process improvement initiatives, and successful adoption of new technologies.

• Demonstrate Architectural Acumen: Ensure your portfolio reflects a deep understanding of architectural design processes and project lifecycles.

• AI Integration Focus: If possible, showcase any experience with evaluating, deploying, or developing AI tools for design or AEC applications.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to leading and growing a team, managing diverse technical disciplines (BIM, AI, computation), and driving change in a creative environment.

• Anticipate questions about your technical expertise in core software and scripting, as well as your strategic thinking regarding AI adoption in architecture.

• Practice articulating complex technical concepts and project outcomes clearly and concisely, suitable for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes a blend of technical depth, leadership capability, and strategic vision. The portfolio review is a critical component, requiring candidates to present a compelling narrative of their impact and expertise. Preparing case studies that highlight leadership in driving technological change, especially concerning AI, will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling & Computational Design: Rhino, Grasshopper (with extensive use of Python and/or C# for scripting and custom tool development).

• BIM Software: Revit (with strong emphasis on interoperability, Rhino.Inside.Revit, Dynamo, Speckle).

• Version Control: Git, for managing code and script development.

• AI & Machine Learning: Experience with AI tools, platforms, and potentially machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, or cloud-based AI services).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for tracking the performance and adoption of DT solutions, potentially custom dashboards or BI tools.

• Data analysis capabilities to measure the impact of DT initiatives on project efficiency and design quality. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding workflow automation within design and project management contexts is key.

• Familiarity with APIs and web-based tool development suggests an ability to integrate different systems and automate processes.

• Potential use of project management or workflow automation software relevant to AEC.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on the core tools used in architectural design and computational workflows, with a significant emphasis on scripting and custom development. The integration of AI tools and platforms is a major requirement, reflecting BIG's strategic direction. Proficiency in interoperability tools is also crucial for seamless data flow between different software environments.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Ambition: A drive to push creative and technological boundaries, consistently seeking new and better ways to design and build.

• Hands-on Craftsmanship: A commitment to deep technical expertise and practical application, where leadership is demonstrated through direct contribution and problem-solving.

• Collaboration & Interdisciplinarity: Valuing teamwork across diverse backgrounds and disciplines to achieve holistic and impactful design solutions.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data and technological insights to inform design processes and measure performance and impact.

• Efficiency & Pragmatism: A focus on developing practical, scalable solutions that deliver real value and can be effectively embedded into project workflows.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The DT team is expected to work seamlessly with architects, project managers, and other specialists, fostering a collaborative environment where technology supports and enhances the design process.

• Open Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback and knowledge sharing to continuously improve methodologies, tools, and team performance.

• Proactive Engagement: A style that involves actively seeking out opportunities to apply DT solutions, engage with project teams, and contribute to studio-wide initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at BIG, as reflected in this role, is one of high performance, innovation, and a strong connection between technical expertise and creative output. The emphasis on "leading from the front" and integrating diverse disciplines suggests a collaborative yet results-oriented environment where technical leaders are also hands-on practitioners.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scaling AI Adoption: Effectively integrating rapidly evolving AI technologies into established architectural workflows, managing expectations, and demonstrating ROI to diverse stakeholders.

• Change Management: Driving adoption of new tools and methodologies across a large, creative studio with potentially varying levels of technical readiness and openness to change.

• Balancing Leadership & Hands-on Work: Effectively managing a team and setting strategic direction while remaining deeply involved in technical development and problem-solving on live projects.

• Interoperability Complexity: Ensuring seamless data flow and collaboration between a wide array of software and platforms (Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit, AI tools, visualization, etc.).

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Cutting-Edge Technology: Direct exposure to and leadership in applying advanced AI, generative design, and computational tools in real-world architectural projects.

• Global Strategic Influence: Contribution to BIG's global Design Technology strategy, with opportunities to shape firm-wide standards and initiatives.

• Team Development: Building and mentoring a specialized DT team, fostering talent in key areas like AI, computational design, and BIM.

• Industry Leadership: Potential to represent BIG at industry conferences, contribute to thought leadership, and stay at the forefront of technological advancements in architecture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior role at the intersection of technology and a creative industry, particularly with the rapid advancements in AI. The growth opportunities are significant, offering a chance to shape the future of a leading architectural practice.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your philosophy for leading a Design Technology team, particularly one that balances global strategy with local project needs. How would you foster a culture of innovation and practical application of AI?" (Focus on leadership style, team structure, and AI integration strategy.)

• "Walk us through a complex project where you had to embed a new computational design or AI-driven workflow into an existing architectural process. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the measurable impact?" (Prepare a detailed case study showcasing problem-solving, technical execution, and change management.)

• "How do you envision AI transforming architectural design and delivery in the next 3-5 years, and what steps would you take as Head of DT Copenhagen to ensure BIG is at the forefront of this transformation?" (Demonstrate foresight, strategic thinking, and actionable plans for AI adoption.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you admire about BIG's work, and how do you see the Design Technology department contributing to the firm's unique approach to architecture?" (Show genuine interest and understanding of BIG's design philosophy and your role within it.)

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration between technical teams like Design Technology and creative teams like architects and designers, especially when introducing new and potentially disruptive technologies?" (Highlight your communication and stakeholder management skills.)

• "How would you measure the success and impact of the Design Technology team in Copenhagen, beyond just project delivery metrics?" (Focus on metrics related to innovation, efficiency gains, talent development, and strategic alignment.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a high-level overview of your career and leadership philosophy. Then, present 2-3 key projects that best illustrate your experience in leading teams, implementing advanced technologies (especially AI), and driving significant improvements in architectural design processes.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state the problem, your solution, the technologies used (e.g., Python scripts for Grasshopper automation, AI model for generative massing studies), and the quantifiable results (e.g., X% reduction in modeling time, Y% improvement in design iteration speed, successful integration into Z number of projects).

• Demonstrate Leadership: For team-based projects, clearly delineate your role and responsibilities, highlighting your leadership, mentorship, and strategic contributions.

• Visual Engagement: Use clear visuals, diagrams, and short video clips where appropriate to illustrate complex workflows or outcomes. Be prepared to discuss the technical details and strategic rationale behind your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical depth, strategic vision, and leadership acumen. Candidates need to articulate their understanding of AI's role in architecture and how they can translate that into practical value for BIG. The portfolio presentation is a critical opportunity to showcase this expertise and impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Head of Design Technology position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the BIG careers portal. Ensure all required documents are uploaded.

• Tailor your CV and Motivation Letter: Highlight your 10+ years of relevant experience, leadership achievements, specific technical skills (Rhino, Grasshopper, Python, C#, Revit, AI), and your architectural background. Clearly articulate your motivation for this specific role at BIG.

• Curate your Portfolio: Select case studies that strongly demonstrate your experience in leading DT initiatives, implementing advanced technologies (especially AI), and driving process improvements within an architectural or AEC context. Focus on quantifiable results and your leadership contributions.

• Prepare for Technical & Strategic Discussions: Be ready to discuss your approach to team leadership, change management, AI integration strategies, and your technical expertise in core DT tools. Practice articulating your portfolio projects with a focus on impact and problem-solving.

• Research BIG: Familiarize yourself with BIG's recent projects, design philosophy, and their stated ambition for AI-enabled architecture. Understand how your skills and experience align with their vision and values.

⚠️ 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.