Interior Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Interior Design Director
Company: Surbana Jurong Group (CHIL Studio)
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Interior Design / Architecture Operations
Date Posted: 2026-05-15
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and execution of luxury interior environments for high-profile hospitality and multi-family residential projects within the Canadian market.
• Drive creative excellence and technical proficiency across all project phases, from initial concept development through to construction administration, ensuring adherence to rigorous quality and regulatory standards.
• Foster strong, collaborative relationships with clients, multidisciplinary project teams, and internal stakeholders, acting as a key point of contact and design authority.
• Mentor and guide intermediate and junior interior designers, cultivating a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and best-practice sharing within the design team.
• Champion sustainable design principles, user-centric design, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to deliver refined, functional, and aesthetically superior spaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is for an Interior Design Director, the emphasis on project delivery, team leadership, cross-functional coordination, and adherence to standards positions it within a broader GTM (Go-To-Market) operations framework, particularly concerning the delivery of client projects and the management of design as a service. The successful candidate will operate as a key leader in the project delivery operations of CHIL Studio.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the development of unique and compelling design concepts, including space planning, material palettes, furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) selection, and the overall design narrative for diverse hospitality and multi-family residential projects.
• Craft and deliver impactful client presentations, utilizing sophisticated visual aids, renderings, and storytelling techniques to effectively communicate design intent and secure buy-in.
• Produce comprehensive and accurate design documentation packages, including detailed drawings, specifications, and schedules, that facilitate precise tendering, procurement, and construction.
• Oversee the meticulous creation and refinement of interior design deliverables across all project stages: concept, schematic design, design development, tender documentation, and construction administration.
• Ensure seamless integration and coordination with architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), lighting, and sustainability consultants to achieve a cohesive and holistic project outcome.
• Diligently review and approve detailed shop drawings, millwork/joinery packages, finish schedules, and material specifications, ensuring alignment with design intent and quality expectations.
• Conduct regular site visits to monitor construction progress, review submittals, and support contract administration efforts, safeguarding the integrity of the design throughout the construction phase.
• Proactively manage project timelines, design workflows, and deliverable schedules to consistently meet and exceed client and studio expectations.
• Act as the primary client liaison, cultivating and maintaining robust, trust-based relationships throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial engagement to final project closure.
• Confidently and professionally present design concepts and project updates to clients, external consultants, and senior leadership, articulating design rationale and strategic decisions.
• Contribute to business development activities, including supporting proposal writing, participating in client interviews, and identifying new opportunities to expand CHIL's market presence.
• Provide effective mentorship and guidance to intermediate and junior interior designers, offering constructive feedback on design quality, technical execution, and professional development.
• Foster a collaborative and knowledge-sharing environment within the interior design team, promoting the adoption of industry best practices and innovative design approaches.
• Actively participate in internal design critiques, studio reviews, and cross-disciplinary initiatives to enhance overall design quality and team capabilities.
• Guarantee that all interior design work rigorously adheres to Canadian building codes, fire and life safety regulations, and provincial accessibility standards (e.g., AODA, BC Building Code).
• Uphold a high standard of consistency, accuracy, and quality across all design documentation and project outputs.
• Champion the integration of sustainable design strategies, responsible material sourcing, and wellness-focused design principles into all project work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize the operational aspects of design delivery, including project management, documentation, client communication, and team leadership. This role requires a strong understanding of operational workflows within a design firm, particularly concerning project execution within the Canadian regulatory landscape.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree or Diploma from a CIDA-accredited Interior Design program or an equivalent Canadian-recognized institution.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive professional experience in interior design, with a significant focus on the hospitality and multi-family residential sectors.
• Proven track record of successfully leading design projects from concept through to construction administration.
• Demonstrated experience working within the Canadian built environment, with a strong understanding of local market dynamics and client expectations.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional conceptual design thinking and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Advanced proficiency in industry-standard design software, including Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
• Expertise in 3D visualization and rendering tools such as SketchUp, Enscape, and/or Rhino.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Canadian building codes, fire and life safety regulations, and accessibility standards (e.g., AODA, provincial codes).
• Proven ability to produce high-quality, detailed design documentation, including drawings, specifications, and FF&E packages, according to Canadian industry standards.
• Excellent client-facing and stakeholder management skills, with a demonstrated ability to build rapport and trust.
• Strong project management capabilities, including timeline management, workflow optimization, and deliverable coordination.
• Effective team leadership and mentorship skills, with the ability to guide and develop junior design professionals.
• Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex design ideas clearly and persuasively.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, MS Project).
• Familiarity with sustainable design certifications (e.g., LEED, WELL).
• Business development acumen and experience contributing to proposal writing and client pitches.
• International project experience, particularly in Asia or the Middle East, given the company's global reach.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software proficiency (Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, 3D viz tools) and regulatory knowledge (Canadian building codes, AODA) directly correlates with operational efficiency and project execution quality. These are critical skills for ensuring smooth project workflows and compliance.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of 5-8 significant hospitality and multi-family residential projects, with a focus on the Canadian context.
• Each project case study should clearly articulate the design challenge, the conceptual approach, the design solutions implemented, and the final outcomes.
• Demonstrations of proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and 3D visualization software through project examples and technical drawings.
• Evidence of experience in developing detailed construction documentation, FF&E packages, and specifications.
• Examples of client presentations and visual storytelling materials that highlight persuasive communication and design narrative skills.
• Documentation illustrating adherence to Canadian building codes, accessibility standards, and sustainable design principles.
• Work samples that showcase strong space planning, material selection, and detailing capabilities.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow management for design projects, demonstrating how timelines were met and deliverables were coordinated.
• Documentation illustrating collaboration processes with multidisciplinary teams (architects, engineers, consultants).
• Case studies that highlight problem-solving approaches to design challenges, showing the process from identification to resolution.
• Samples of specifications or schedules that demonstrate attention to detail and adherence to industry standards.
• Evidence of site visit reports or contract administration documentation, showcasing the process of ensuring design integrity during construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for operations roles as it validates practical application of skills. For this role, the portfolio must prove not just design talent but also the ability to manage complex projects operationally, adhere to regulatory frameworks, and effectively communicate design intent through documentation and presentations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for an Interior Design Director with 10+ years of experience in a major Canadian city like Vancouver, practicing within a reputable design firm, the estimated salary range is CAD $120,000 to $180,000 annually. This range accounts for the strategic leadership, client management, and technical expertise required for this senior role.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans.
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation days, personal days, and statutory holidays.
• Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., RRSP matching or equivalent).
• Professional Development Allowance for continued learning, conferences, and certifications.
• Opportunities for performance-based bonuses and profit sharing.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health and well-being support.
• Potential for stock options or equity participation for senior leadership.
• Relocation assistance may be available for candidates relocating to Vancouver.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time commitment, typically 40 hours per week.
• Flexibility may be offered for project deadlines, with potential for occasional overtime, balanced by compensatory time off.
• The role is primarily on-site to facilitate team collaboration and client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on data from industry salary surveys (e.g., from design associations, recruitment firms specializing in architecture and design) for senior-level design directors in Vancouver, Canada, considering the company's global presence and the premium placed on experienced talent in sought-after sectors like hospitality.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Interior Design, Urban Planning, and Project Management Consultancy. The company operates within the broader built environment sector, offering integrated solutions across the entire project lifecycle. Company Size: Surbana Jurong Group is a global entity with over 16,000 employees across more than 120 offices in over 40 countries. CHIL Studio, as a boutique interior design studio within the group, likely maintains a more focused and agile operational structure, fostering a collaborative and creative atmosphere. Founded: Surbana Jurong was founded in Singapore and has a legacy of over 70 years in project delivery. This long history signifies stability, deep expertise, and a well-established operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The Interior Design Director will lead the CHIL Studio's interior design team in Vancouver, which likely includes intermediate designers, junior designers, and potentially design technologists or administrative support.
• This team operates as a specialized unit within the larger B+H and Surbana Jurong Group, collaborating closely with architectural teams, engineering disciplines, and other consultants.
• The reporting structure would typically be to a senior regional director or a global head of design, with direct accountability for project delivery and team performance in Vancouver.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Utilizing insights from user behaviour, market trends, and performance metrics to inform design decisions and optimize space functionality.
• Integrated Project Delivery: Emphasizing close collaboration between all project stakeholders from the outset to streamline workflows, mitigate risks, and ensure cohesive project execution.
• Agile Design Practices: Adopting flexible and iterative design processes to respond effectively to client feedback and evolving project requirements.
• Quality Assurance: Implementing rigorous review processes at each project stage to maintain high standards of design and technical documentation.

Company Website: www.surbanajurong.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the company's global scale versus the boutique nature of CHIL Studio is key. The operations of a specialized design studio within a large conglomerate will involve balancing the autonomy of creative work with the structured processes and reporting lines of a global organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership role, a "Director" level position, signifying significant responsibility for strategic direction, team management, and client relationship management within the Vancouver studio. It represents a pinnacle of operational influence within the design delivery process at CHIL.

Reporting Structure: The Interior Design Director will report to a higher-level executive within the Surbana Jurong Group or B+H, likely a Regional Director or Global Head of Design. They will manage a team of interior designers, fostering a direct reporting relationship and overseeing their daily operational activities and project contributions.

Operations Impact: The role's operational impact is substantial, directly influencing project profitability, client satisfaction, and the studio's reputation. Success hinges on the efficient and effective delivery of high-quality design projects, which forms the core revenue-generating operation for CHIL Studio. This includes managing the design pipeline, ensuring project milestones are met, and controlling design-related costs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Strategic Leadership: Opportunity to shape the long-term vision and operational strategy for interior design services within the Vancouver studio and potentially contribute to broader regional or global design initiatives.
• Business Development: Expand expertise in client acquisition and relationship management, potentially leading to roles with greater business development responsibilities.
• Mentorship & Team Building: Develop leadership skills by nurturing talent and building a high-performing design team, paving the way for future leadership roles in operations or management.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain deeper insights into other areas of the Surbana Jurong Group, such as urban planning, architecture, and sustainability consulting, broadening operational understanding and career pathways.
• Global Influence: Contribute to global design standards, methodologies, and best practices within the Surbana Jurong network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Director" title implies a significant operational mandate beyond individual design contribution. Growth opportunities are tied to expanding this operational scope, from managing a local team to influencing regional or global design delivery strategies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Vancouver, Canada, within a CHIL Studio office. As part of Surbana Jurong Group, the office environment is expected to be professional, modern, and conducive to collaborative design work. It will likely house a mix of design professionals, project managers, and support staff, fostering a dynamic atmosphere.

Office Location(s): Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Specific office location details would be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process, but it's expected to be in a well-accessible urban area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Hub: The workspace will be designed to encourage interaction, brainstorming, and teamwork, with dedicated areas for design reviews, client meetings, and informal discussions.
• Technology-Enabled: Access to high-performance workstations, large format displays, advanced rendering capabilities, and reliable network infrastructure to support complex design software and workflows.
• Resource Library: Likely access to extensive material libraries, sample rooms, and digital resources for efficient material and FF&E selection.
• Cross-Functional Interaction: Opportunities to interact regularly with architects, engineers, and other specialists within the Surbana Jurong Group, promoting a holistic understanding of project delivery operations.

Work Schedule: The typical work schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, the demands of project deadlines may occasionally require flexibility and extended hours to ensure timely delivery of critical project phases and client presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration and client engagement, which are critical operational functions for a design director. The workspace context highlights the tools and environment necessary for efficient operational execution in a design setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and portfolio by the recruitment team to assess alignment with the core requirements and experience level.
• Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior leader in the Vancouver studio or regional director) focusing on your experience, design philosophy, leadership style, and understanding of project operations. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.
• Design & Technical Assessment: This may involve a presentation of your portfolio, a design exercise, or a technical discussion to evaluate your conceptual skills, software proficiency, and knowledge of Canadian building codes and standards.
• Team & Culture Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet with other design team members and potentially cross-functional collaborators to assess cultural fit and teamwork capabilities.
• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to finalize the decision, potentially covering strategic vision and long-term contributions to the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose projects that best represent your experience in hospitality and multi-family residential design, highlighting your role and contributions. Focus on quality over quantity.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's brief, the challenges faced, your conceptual approach, the design solutions, and the impactful outcomes. Highlight your operational role in delivery.
• Showcase Technical Prowess: Include examples of detailed drawings, specifications, and FF&E schedules that demonstrate your technical proficiency and understanding of Canadian standards.
• Highlight Leadership: If possible, include examples demonstrating your ability to mentor junior staff, manage project workflows, and lead client presentations.
• Canadian Context: Ensure a strong representation of projects completed within Canada, emphasizing your familiarity with local codes, regulations, and market nuances.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easily navigable, whether digital or physical. Be prepared to walk through it confidently.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical design challenge, focusing on your process, problem-solving methodology, and ability to integrate client needs with regulatory requirements and operational constraints.
• Prepare to articulate your leadership philosophy and how you foster collaboration and mentorship within a design team.
• Research Surbana Jurong Group and CHIL Studio's recent projects, values, and market position to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of their operational context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes not only design talent but also the operational capacity to manage projects, lead teams, and engage clients effectively within the Canadian context. Portfolio review is a critical operational assessment tool.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for BIM (Building Information Modeling), enabling integrated design and documentation workflows, clash detection, and efficient revisions. Proficiency is critical for collaborative project delivery.
• AutoCAD: Continued use for 2D drafting, detailing, and specific documentation requirements where BIM may not be fully integrated or preferred by external consultants.
• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign): Crucial for concept development, mood boards, graphic presentations, image editing, and final layout of design packages.
• 3D Visualization Software (SketchUp, Enscape, Rhino): Necessary for creating compelling visual representations of design concepts, facilitating client understanding and buy-in. Enscape, in particular, offers real-time rendering for dynamic presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, MS Project): Tools for tracking project timelines, task assignments, resource allocation, and overall progress monitoring. Essential for operational oversight.
• Document Management Systems (e.g., SharePoint, Google Drive): Platforms for organizing, storing, and sharing project documentation, ensuring version control and accessibility for the team.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a traditional "CRM" role, understanding client management principles is key. Proficiency in tools that facilitate client communication and project tracking is beneficial.
• Integration Tools: Understanding how different software platforms integrate (e.g., Revit to Enscape) is important for optimizing design workflows and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specified software tools are standard in the architecture and design industry and are critical for the operational execution of design projects. Proficiency in these tools directly impacts the efficiency and quality of deliverables.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to producing high-quality, functional, and aesthetically superior design outcomes that meet and exceed client expectations. This translates to operational precision and attention to detail.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where open communication, mutual respect, and shared knowledge are paramount to collective success. This is key for integrated project delivery operations.
• Innovation & Creativity: Encouraging a culture that embraces new ideas, explores cutting-edge design solutions, and pushes creative boundaries within the framework of practical project execution.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and consultants, ensuring trust and accountability in all operational interactions.
• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and objectives, striving to build strong, long-term relationships through responsive communication and tailored design solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Proactively engaging with architects, engineers, and other consultants to ensure a cohesive design process and seamless project execution, breaking down traditional silos.
• Open Feedback Loops: Encouraging constructive dialogue and feedback among team members and with external partners to continuously improve design quality and operational efficiency.
• Knowledge Sharing Platforms: Utilizing internal meetings, workshops, and digital platforms to share best practices, lessons learned, and emerging trends within the design community.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Excellence in Delivery" and "Collaboration & Teamwork" directly speaks to the operational ethos of the studio. This role requires someone who can lead these values in practice through their daily actions and project management.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Commercial Viability: Successfully translating innovative design concepts into projects that are both aesthetically compelling and financially feasible for clients and the firm. This requires strong operational and financial acumen.
• Navigating Complex Regulatory Environments: Ensuring all designs strictly adhere to evolving Canadian building codes, accessibility standards, and local permitting processes, which can be intricate and time-consuming.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Effectively communicating and aligning the needs and expectations of various clients, developers, consultants, and internal teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Leveraging Technology for Efficiency: Continuously adopting and integrating new design technologies and software to enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and improve the quality of deliverables.
• Global-Local Integration: Seamlessly integrating the global expertise and standards of Surbana Jurong Group with the specific requirements and nuances of the Canadian market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Methodologies: Access to training and workshops on emerging design trends, sustainable building practices, and user-centric design strategies.
• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to hone leadership skills through internal training, mentorship, and by leading significant projects and teams.
• Industry Conferences & Networking: Support for attending key industry events (e.g., design expos, architectural conferences) to stay abreast of trends and expand professional networks.
• Cross-Disciplinary Projects: Engaging in projects that involve other Surbana Jurong Group disciplines (e.g., master planning, urban design, sustainability consulting) to broaden expertise and operational understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying these challenges allows candidates to prepare for potential hurdles and demonstrate their problem-solving capabilities, which are crucial operational skills for a leadership role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a complex hospitality project from concept to completion. What were the key operational challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your process, team management, and problem-solving.)
• "How do you ensure a design concept remains cohesive and high-quality throughout the detailed documentation and construction phases, especially when working with external consultants?" (Highlight your quality control processes and coordination strategies.)
• "Walk us through your approach to managing client relationships and stakeholder expectations on a high-stakes project. Provide an example of a difficult situation and how you navigated it." (Demonstrate your client management and communication skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Surbana Jurong Group and CHIL Studio, how do you see your leadership style contributing to our company culture and operational goals?" (Research company values and connect them to your experience.)
• "How do you foster a collaborative and innovative environment within your design team, especially when working under tight deadlines?" (Discuss your mentorship and team-building approaches.)
• "What is your perspective on sustainable design and wellness integration in hospitality and multi-family residential projects, and how would you operationalize these principles at CHIL?" (Showcase your alignment with modern design thinking and implementation strategies.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your presentation logically, starting with an overview of your experience and the studio's context, then diving into 2-3 key projects. For each project, clearly state the objectives, your role, the challenges, your solutions, and the outcomes.
• Quantify Success: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your designs (e.g., client satisfaction scores, project timelines met, budget adherence, positive reviews).
• Highlight Operational Contributions: Emphasize your role in project management, team leadership, coordination with consultants, and client communication, not just the aesthetic outcomes.
• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your drawings, specifications, and software proficiency, especially concerning Canadian codes and standards.
• Engage Your Audience: Make it a conversation. Ask clarifying questions and be ready to adapt your presentation based on the interviewer's interests.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for these types of questions will demonstrate not only design acumen but also a strong understanding of the operational demands of the role, making candidates more competitive.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Interior Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Surbana Jurong careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature your most relevant hospitality and multi-family residential projects, with a clear emphasis on your contributions to project delivery, client management, and team leadership within the Canadian context. Ensure it showcases your proficiency with Revit, AutoCAD, and visualization tools, alongside detailed documentation examples.
• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to highlight your 10+ years of experience, leadership achievements, project management successes, and specific knowledge of Canadian building codes and accessibility standards. Use keywords from the job description to ensure ATS compatibility.
• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly research Surbana Jurong Group and CHIL Studio. Prepare specific examples from your experience that align with the responsibilities and company values. Practice articulating your design process, leadership philosophy, and operational approach, especially for portfolio presentations and strategy questions.
• Company Research: Understand the company's global reach, its boutique studio model (CHIL), and its commitment to sustainable and user-centric design. Familiarize yourself with their recent projects and market positioning to demonstrate genuine interest and a strategic understanding of their operational landscape.

⚠️ 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.