Interior Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Interior Design Director

Company: Surbana Jurong Group (CHIL Studio)

Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Interior Design Leadership (Hospitality & Residential)

Date Posted: May 15, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the conceptualization and execution of high-caliber interior design projects within the hospitality and multi-family residential sectors.

• Drive creative excellence and technical proficiency throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept to final construction.

• Foster strong client relationships and effectively communicate design vision and progress to all stakeholders.

• Mentor and develop junior design staff, promoting a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within the design team.

• Ensure all design solutions adhere to Canadian building codes, accessibility standards, and sustainability best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Director" level, indicating significant leadership responsibilities. While the raw description uses "Senior Interior Designer," the title and scope suggest a leadership position responsible for guiding a team and influencing design strategy. The focus on Canadian standards is explicitly stated, making local regulatory knowledge crucial.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Leadership: Spearhead concept development, strategic space planning, curated material selection, and FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) direction for complex hospitality and multi-family residential projects.

• Client Engagement: Serve as a primary client liaison, building trust and rapport, and adeptly presenting design concepts, proposals, and progress updates to diverse audiences including clients, consultants, and senior leadership.

• Technical Oversight: Oversee the creation and refinement of comprehensive interior design deliverables across all project phases (concept, schematic design, design development, tender, and construction documentation), ensuring accuracy and adherence to Canadian industry standards.

• Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate seamlessly with architectural, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), lighting, and sustainability teams to ensure integrated and cohesive project outcomes.

• Team Mentorship: Guide and inspire intermediate and junior interior designers, providing constructive feedback on design quality, technical execution, and professional development, while fostering a collaborative and knowledge-sharing environment.

• Quality Assurance & Compliance: Rigorously ensure all design work complies with relevant Canadian building codes, fire and life safety regulations, and accessibility standards (e.g., AODA, provincial codes), maintaining high standards of consistency and accuracy.

• Sustainable Design Advocacy: Champion the integration of sustainable design strategies, responsible material sourcing, and wellness-focused design principles into all project deliverables.

• Business Development Support: Contribute to proposal writing, client interviews, and other business development initiatives to secure new projects and expand the studio's reach.

• Site & Construction Administration: Conduct site visits, review shop drawings, and provide essential support during the construction administration phase to uphold design integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative leadership, technical execution, client management, and team development, typical of a senior or director-level design role within a reputable studio. The explicit mention of Canadian codes and standards signifies the need for localized expertise.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 10+ years of progressive professional experience in interior design, with a significant focus on hospitality and/or multi-family residential sectors.

• Proven track record of leading design projects from inception through to completion.

Required Skills:

• Design Development: Expertise in concept development, strategic space planning, material specification, and FF&E selection.

• Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in industry-standard design software including Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and 3D visualization tools (e.g., SketchUp, Enscape, Rhino).

• Regulatory Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of Canadian building codes, fire and life safety regulations, and provincial accessibility standards (e.g., Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act - AODA).

• Documentation Expertise: Proficiency in producing high-quality construction documentation, detailed drawings, finish schedules, and specifications that meet Canadian industry standards.

• Project Management: Ability to manage project timelines, workflows, and deliverables effectively to meet client and studio expectations.

• Communication & Presentation: Exceptional verbal, written, and visual communication skills, with a proven ability to present design concepts confidently to clients and stakeholders.

• Team Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with both hospitality and multi-family residential projects.

• Familiarity with sustainable design certifications and practices (e.g., LEED).

• Business development and client acquisition experience.

• Understanding of local permitting processes in major Canadian urban centers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10 years plus" experience level, coupled with the "Director" title and leadership responsibilities, strongly suggests a senior-level candidate capable of independent project leadership and team management. The emphasis on specific software and Canadian codes is critical for qualification.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Diversity: Showcase a range of completed hospitality and multi-family residential projects, highlighting your role and contributions to each.

• Design Narrative: Clearly articulate the design concept, rationale, and problem-solving approach for key projects.

• Technical Execution: Include examples of detailed construction drawings, millwork/joinery packages, and finish schedules that demonstrate proficiency and adherence to standards.

• FF&E Specification: Present examples of FF&E packages, demonstrating your ability to curate and specify materials, finishes, and furnishings that align with design intent and budget.

• Visual Communication: Showcase compelling client presentation materials, including mood boards, renderings, and plan layouts that effectively communicate design vision.

• Collaboration Evidence: If possible, include examples or descriptions of how you've collaborated with architectural, engineering, and other consultant teams.

• Canadian Context: Highlight projects executed within Canada, demonstrating familiarity with local codes, regulations, and material availability.

Process Documentation:

• Prepare to discuss your process for translating client briefs into design concepts.

• Be ready to explain your workflow for developing and documenting designs through schematic design, design development, and construction documentation phases.

• Outline your approach to coordinating with external consultants and managing the review of shop drawings and submittals during construction.

• Demonstrate your strategy for ensuring design quality and compliance throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Director-level role, a portfolio must not only showcase aesthetic talent but also demonstrate strategic thinking, technical rigor, and the ability to manage complex projects and teams. The emphasis on process documentation reflects the need for a structured and repeatable approach to design delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Dental Insurance: Coverage for medical, vision, and dental care for employees and their dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Contributions to a group RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan) or similar Canadian retirement savings vehicle.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education, workshops, conferences, and professional accreditation support.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional challenges.

• Group Life and Disability Insurance: Protection for employees and their families.

• Potential for Performance Bonuses: Discretionary bonuses tied to individual and company performance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, the company may offer some flexibility depending on project demands and team agreements. The role demands a commitment to meeting project deadlines, which may occasionally require extended hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on publicly available data for senior interior design roles in Toronto, Canada, considering the specific industry (hospitality/residential) and leadership scope. Benefits are standard for professional roles in Canada and within large organizations like Surbana Jurong Group.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Interior Design, Urban Planning, Engineering. CHIL is a specialized boutique interior design studio focusing on hospitality, food & beverage, and multi-family residential projects, operating as part of the larger Surbana Jurong Group.

Company Size: Surbana Jurong Group is a global entity with 16,000 employees across over 120 offices in more than 40 countries. CHIL, as a studio within this group, likely maintains a more intimate, boutique feel while benefiting from the resources of a large international organization.

Founded: Surbana Jurong Group was formed through mergers and acquisitions, with significant roots tracing back decades. CHIL has established itself as a leading design studio with a strong reputation.

Team Structure:

• The Interior Design Director will lead the Toronto-based interior design team, which likely includes intermediate and junior designers, as well as project coordinators.

• This team operates within the broader B+H studio in Toronto, which is part of the SJ Group. Collaboration with architects, urban planners, engineers, and sustainability consultants from B+H and other SJ Group member companies (like Atelier Ten for sustainability) is critical.

Methodology:

• Design Excellence: A strong emphasis on creative problem-solving, aesthetic innovation, and delivering refined, user-centered spaces.

• Technical Rigor: Commitment to high-quality documentation and execution, ensuring projects are buildable and meet stringent standards.

• Client-Centric Approach: Prioritizing client relationships and delivering designs that meet their strategic objectives and brand vision.

• Sustainable & Responsible Design: Integration of environmental consciousness and wellness principles into design solutions.

• Global Collaboration: Leveraging the diverse expertise and resources of the Surbana Jurong Group network.

Company Website: https://www.surbanajurong.com/ and https://chil.design/

📝 Enhancement Note: The integration of CHIL into the larger Surbana Jurong Group (and specifically B+H in Toronto) suggests a dynamic environment where a boutique design studio's agility can be combined with the stability and global reach of a major corporation. This structure offers opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration and exposure to diverse projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior leadership level, equivalent to a Director or Principal within a design practice. It requires not only exceptional design and technical skills but also proven leadership capabilities, client management acumen, and a strategic mindset. The scope includes leading a team, managing significant projects, and contributing to the studio's business objectives.

Reporting Structure: The Interior Design Director will likely report to a Managing Director, Regional Director, or a Principal within the B+H Toronto studio or the CHIL leadership structure. They will, in turn, manage and mentor a team of intermediate and junior interior designers.

Operations Impact: The Interior Design Director has a profound impact on the company's success by:

• Enhancing Brand Reputation: Delivering award-winning and impactful designs that elevate the reputation of CHIL and Surbana Jurong Group.

• Driving Revenue: Securing and successfully delivering high-value projects, contributing directly to the studio's financial performance.

• Client Retention: Building strong client relationships that lead to repeat business and referrals.

• Talent Development: Cultivating a talented team of designers, fostering a positive work environment, and ensuring the studio's continued design innovation.

• Operational Efficiency: Streamlining design processes and ensuring efficient project delivery.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to lead larger, more complex, or international projects, or to expand the Toronto design team.

• Strategic Influence: Contribute to the strategic direction of CHIL and B+H, influencing design philosophy and business development.

• Cross-Disciplinary Advancement: Opportunities to collaborate on or lead integrated design projects involving architecture, urban planning, and engineering through the SJ Group network.

• Professional Recognition: Pursue industry awards, speaking engagements, and thought leadership opportunities.

• Mentorship & Legacy: Develop the next generation of design leaders within the firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Director title implies a significant level of responsibility and influence. Growth opportunities are tied to expanding leadership scope, contributing to strategic decisions, and leveraging the extensive network of the parent company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based within a physical studio environment, likely shared with architectural and other design disciplines under the B+H umbrella in Toronto. This promotes a collaborative and interdisciplinary work atmosphere.

Office Location(s): Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Specific details regarding office amenities and accessibility would be provided during the recruitment process, but a major city location suggests good access to public transport and urban amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The studio environment is designed to foster teamwork, spontaneous idea sharing, and cross-pollination of ideas between different design disciplines.

• Resource-Rich: Access to necessary design software, hardware, material libraries, meeting rooms, and presentation facilities.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, project teams, and leadership, facilitating mentorship and knowledge transfer.

• Professional Atmosphere: A dynamic and creative setting that balances focused work with collaborative engagement.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work week is 40 hours, primarily on-site. While a structured schedule is expected, there may be flexibility offered based on project deadlines and individual arrangements, but the core of the role necessitates physical presence for team collaboration and client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for leadership roles in design where team collaboration, client interaction, and access to physical resources are paramount. The Toronto location implies a vibrant professional setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience against role requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: Candidates will be invited to present their portfolio, discussing key projects, their role, design process, and technical approach, particularly focusing on hospitality and multi-family residential work in Canada. This will be followed by an in-depth interview with the hiring manager and potentially other design leaders.

• Technical & Situational Assessment: Expect questions related to design problem-solving, code compliance, project management scenarios, and team leadership. You may be asked to discuss how you would handle specific challenges or client situations.

• Team & Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet with potential team members and assess cultural alignment. This may include discussions about collaboration style and values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership of B+H or Surbana Jurong Group to discuss strategic fit and overall suitability for the Director role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects, prioritizing hospitality and multi-family residential work, especially those completed in Canada.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your contribution to each project, especially for team-based work. Use "I" statements for your direct responsibilities and "we" for team efforts.

• Showcase Process: For each project, walk through your design process: concept development, space planning, material selection, technical documentation, and construction administration.

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Include detailed drawings, specifications, and FF&E examples to prove your technical capability and understanding of Canadian standards.

• Articulate Design Intent: Clearly explain the narrative and rationale behind your design decisions. What problem were you solving? What was the intended user experience?

• Address Canadian Context: Explicitly mention how you’ve navigated Canadian building codes, accessibility standards, and local market conditions.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse your presentation to ensure it flows well, stays within time limits, and clearly communicates your expertise and passion. Be prepared for detailed questions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical design challenges related to complex client briefs, tight timelines, or challenging site conditions within the Canadian context.

• Prepare examples of how you've managed difficult client conversations or resolved conflicts within project teams.

• Think about how you would approach mentoring junior designers and fostering a positive team dynamic.

• Consider how you would contribute to the business development efforts of the studio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Director role is rigorous, focusing not just on design skill but also on leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to represent the firm. A well-prepared, tailored portfolio is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for BIM (Building Information Modeling), multi-disciplinary coordination, and detailed documentation. Expect advanced proficiency.

• AutoCAD: Still relevant for 2D drafting and specific detailing tasks.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Critical for creating compelling presentations, mood boards, and visual collateral (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• 3D Visualization Software: Proficiency in tools like SketchUp, Enscape, Rhino, or similar for creating realistic renderings and communicating design intent.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a traditional "operations" role, understanding project metrics such as budget adherence, schedule performance, and resource allocation will be important for project management.

CRM & Automation:

• While direct CRM usage might be limited, understanding how client management and business development are tracked within the organization's systems could be beneficial.

• Familiarity with project management and collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack, Asana, Monday.com) for internal communication and workflow management.

• Understanding of document management systems for project files.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core of the technology stack is focused on design and visualization tools. Proficiency in BIM (Revit) and strong visualization capabilities are non-negotiable. Understanding project management tools is also key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A core commitment to pushing creative boundaries and delivering exceptional, high-quality design outcomes.

• Collaboration: Valuing teamwork, open communication, and mutual respect among colleagues across all disciplines.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and partners.

• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas, exploring novel solutions, and staying at the forefront of design trends and technologies.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building lasting relationships.

• Sustainability & Wellness: Commitment to designing spaces that are environmentally responsible and enhance occupant well-being.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Design: A philosophy that encourages early and continuous collaboration between interior designers, architects, engineers, and other specialists to achieve holistic project solutions.

• Open Communication: Fostering an environment where ideas can be freely shared, feedback is constructive, and challenges are addressed transparently.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture that supports the growth of junior staff through guidance, training, and shared learning experiences.

• Client Partnership: Viewing client relationships as collaborative partnerships, working together to achieve shared goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of creative passion, technical rigor, collaborative spirit, and a commitment to client success, all within the framework of a large, global organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client/Budget Constraints: Navigating the inherent tension between ambitious design concepts and the practicalities of client budget, schedule, and regulatory requirements.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Effectively aligning the needs and desires of multiple clients, internal teams, and external consultants.

• Mentoring and Developing Talent: Providing effective leadership and guidance to foster the growth of junior designers while ensuring project quality.

• Keeping Pace with Evolving Standards & Technologies: Continuously updating knowledge on Canadian building codes, sustainability practices, and new design software and materials.

• Integration within a Large Corporate Structure: Effectively leveraging the resources of Surbana Jurong Group while maintaining the agility and specialized focus of the CHIL studio.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Workshops: Access to training on cutting-edge design software, visualization techniques, and emerging material technologies.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend leading design events in hospitality and residential sectors, and to stay abreast of Canadian building code updates.

• Sustainability Certifications: Pursuing certifications like LEED or WELL AP to deepen expertise in sustainable and wellness-driven design.

• Leadership Training: Development programs focused on strategic leadership, team management, and business acumen.

• Cross-Disciplinary Projects: Gaining experience on integrated projects that combine interior design with architecture, urban planning, and engineering through the SJ Group network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior leadership role in design, requiring strong problem-solving skills and adaptability. Growth is framed around expanding leadership scope and deepening specialized expertise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach developing a unique design concept for a luxury hotel in a competitive market like Toronto, considering current trends and client expectations?" (Focus on your concept development process, inspiration sources, and how you translate trends into unique solutions.)

• "Describe a time you had to advocate for a design decision that faced significant pushback from a client or consultant. How did you navigate the situation and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, and how you uphold design integrity.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to CHIL and the Surbana Jurong Group, and how do you see your design philosophy aligning with our values?" (Research the company's projects, values, and recent news. Connect your experience and approach to their stated mission.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative and inclusive environment within a design team, and how would you mentor junior designers to help them grow?" (Discuss your leadership style, team-building strategies, and commitment to talent development.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation like a story, guiding the interviewers through your design journey for each project.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality imagery and clear graphics. Ensure your slides are clean, professional, and easy to read.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use data or tangible outcomes to illustrate the success of your designs (e.g., client testimonials, positive reviews, project awards, efficiency gains).

• Emphasize Canadian Relevance: For projects in Canada, explicitly discuss how you addressed local codes and market specifics.

• Engage and Interact: Be prepared for questions and treat the presentation as a discussion, not just a monologue.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership, strategic thinking, a deep understanding of the Canadian design context, and the ability to articulate your design process and value proposition clearly.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Interior Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link.

• Curate a Targeted Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most compelling hospitality and multi-family residential projects, emphasizing those completed in Canada. Prepare to discuss your specific role, design process, technical solutions, and the impact of your work.

• Optimize Your Resume: Highlight your 10+ years of experience, leadership roles, and specific expertise in hospitality/residential design, Revit, AutoCAD, and Canadian building codes. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare for Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation thoroughly, focusing on clear communication, storytelling, and addressing the specific requirements of this role and the Canadian market.

• Research Surbana Jurong Group & CHIL: Understand their project portfolio, design philosophy, and values. Prepare to articulate how your skills and experience align with their strategic goals and culture.

⚠️ 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.

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