Interior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Interior Design Manager

Company: Discovery Land Company

Location: Homewood Mountain & Lake Club, Lake Tahoe, CA, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Interior Design & Development Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-19

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the comprehensive design vision, program, and strategic direction for luxury residential and club amenity developments.

• Manage and coordinate with external design consultants and internal development teams to ensure seamless project execution from concept through completion.

• Lead client selection processes, providing expert guidance and managing design documentation for high-end residential projects.

• Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships, ensuring specifications and design intent are accurately communicated and implemented.

• Drive operational efficiency by providing critical design input for club amenity programming and coordinating with construction teams for flawless execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Interior Design Manager," the responsibilities clearly indicate a role deeply embedded within the development and construction operations of luxury real estate. This role requires a strong understanding of operational workflows, project management, and cross-functional collaboration typical of GTM (Go-To-Market) support and project execution within a development company. The focus is on managing the design process as a critical operational component of delivering high-value real estate projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with the development team to meticulously enforce the overall vision, program, and design direction across all Discovery Land Company (DLC) projects.

• Manage and direct external architectural and engineering consultants, ensuring the timely and accurate production of design and construction drawings for various developer product types and club amenities.

• Conduct engaging meetings with prospective clients and the sales team to present developer product offerings and guide them through design options during the home selection process.

• Schedule, lead, and meticulously document customer meetings to review and finalize selections for each home, ensuring all design notes are promptly provided to consultants and the design team for incorporation into construction documents.

• Create and maintain comprehensive selections books for each individual home, facilitating a smooth and efficient handover to the development and construction teams for construction phase execution.

• Cultivate and manage relationships with vendors, providing precise specifications and design information for products to be integrated into development projects.

• Lead and attend critical meetings with consultants, contractors, and clients, including preparing agendas and distributing detailed minutes or delegating these tasks effectively.

• Manage and mentor design assistant(s), offering clear guidance, direction, and support to ensure the successful completion of tasks, meetings, reports, and all necessary collateral.

• Coordinate with the operations team on the programming of club areas, offering essential design input, collaborating with FF&E consultants/vendors, and ensuring seamless coordination with the construction team to realize the desired design and overall aesthetic for the club.

• Liaise effectively with clients' external consultants and vendors to ensure the accurate execution of their individual home designs, working in tandem with the construction team to provide them with the most current project information.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on managing consultants, client selections, construction documents, and coordinating with operations and construction teams highlights the operational nature of this role. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about managing a complex, multi-stakeholder process to deliver a tangible product.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Interior Design is preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in architectural planning and high-end luxury residential design, with a strong background in horizontal development projects.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in resourcing, selecting, and managing consultant teams for the design and construction of ultra-luxury residential properties and golf club amenities.

• Deep understanding of both front-of-house and back-of-house operational requirements, particularly in the design, planning, and programming phases of new construction.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, Project, Bluebeam, and PowerPoint.

• Strong command of Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) for design presentations and documentation.

• Ability to effectively review, analyze, and provide recommendations on designs, plans, geotechnical studies, and detailed specifications.

• Experience in creating, distributing, and managing RFPs (Request for Proposals) to designers and contractors for the selection of the project team.

• Intimate knowledge of construction means and methods, enabling effective design, value engineering, and management of the construction process.

• Demonstrated ability to establish and manage departmental and project-specific schedules and budgets.

• Capacity to supervise and plan the work of technical and professional subordinates.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.

• Aptitude for interpreting and executing complex oral and written instructions, including the ability to read and understand blueprints and technical specifications.

• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with a diverse range of consultants and stakeholders.

• Considerable knowledge of modern principles, processes, and best practices in architecture, engineering, and interior design.

• Familiarity with applicable building codes and regulatory agency guidelines. Preferred Skills:

• Active architectural registration is not required, but a non-active registration is acceptable for licensed candidates.

• Specialized software proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, and BIM/Revit is highly advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a deep understanding of operational aspects ("front and back of house") and construction means/methods, alongside software proficiency, positions this role as a hybrid of design leadership and operational execution management within the development lifecycle.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex, high-value luxury residential or club amenity projects, detailing the scope from initial concept through to final execution.

• Clearly demonstrate your role in managing consultant teams, including their selection, coordination, and performance oversight.

• Highlight your experience in client selection processes, illustrating how you guided clients through design options and managed their selections effectively.

• Provide examples of detailed construction documents and selections books you have created or managed, emphasizing clarity and completeness.

• Include evidence of managing project budgets and schedules, showcasing your ability to deliver projects on time and within financial parameters. Process Documentation:

• Present case studies detailing your process for developing and implementing design concepts, from initial client brief to final architectural drawings.

• Illustrate your workflow for managing vendor and consultant relationships, including RFP processes, contract oversight, and performance monitoring.

• Demonstrate your approach to value engineering and construction means/methods integration within the design process to optimize cost and efficiency.

• Document your methods for programming operational spaces (e.g., back-of-house areas, club facilities) with a focus on functionality and user experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-focused role like this, a portfolio that emphasizes process, project management, and measurable outcomes (budget adherence, schedule management, client satisfaction) will be far more impactful than one focused solely on aesthetic portfolios.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $110,000 - $130,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• 401k Contribution program to support long-term financial planning.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays for work-life balance.

• Employee Meals provided, fostering a sense of community and convenience.

• Referral Incentives and Recognition Programs to reward contributions and teamwork.

• Opportunities for Professional Development and continuous learning.

• A supportive and engaging Work-Family Culture.

Working Hours: Full-Time, Year-Round, Exempt status, typically around 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected for project demands and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and competitive for a senior-level Interior Design Manager role with significant operational and project management responsibilities in a high-cost-of-living area like Lake Tahoe. The benefits package is robust, aligning with industry standards for full-time, exempt employees in the luxury hospitality and real estate development sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Development & Luxury Hospitality. Discovery Land Company operates private residential communities globally, known for their exclusive environments and personalized experiences. Homewood Mountain & Lake Club is a key property within this portfolio, emphasizing a four-season destination with a focus on stunning lake views and intimate, high-quality guest experiences.

Company Size: Discovery Land Company is a significant player in the luxury real estate market with a global presence. Homewood Mountain & Lake Club, as a specific location, likely employs a substantial team across various operational departments, including design, development, construction, hospitality, and member services.

Founded: Discovery Land Company was founded to create unique environments for individuals and families. Homewood Mountain & Lake Club, as a location, has a history as a beloved four-season destination. The company's founding ethos centers on providing freedom, security, and resources in beautiful locations.

Team Structure:

• The Interior Design Manager will be part of the broader development and project management team, likely working closely with architects, engineers, construction managers, and project coordinators.

• A direct reporting structure to a Director of Development or Head of Design is probable, with management responsibilities over design assistants.

• Cross-functional collaboration is critical, involving close partnerships with sales teams, operations (front and back-of-house), construction teams, and potentially finance for budget management. Methodology:

• Data-driven insights are crucial for understanding client preferences, market trends, and operational needs in design programming.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to managing the complex design and selection process, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.

• Automation and efficiency practices are applied through the use of project management software and design tools to streamline communication and documentation.

Company Website: http://www.discoverylandco.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes exclusivity, personalized experiences, and a "work-family" environment, which is common in the luxury hospitality and high-end real estate sectors. For an operations role, understanding how design integrates into the overall member/guest experience and operational efficiency is key.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the design and development operations of Discovery Land Company. It requires a blend of creative design leadership, project management acumen, and a strong understanding of operational and construction processes. The scope of responsibility includes managing external consultants, client interactions, and internal team members, indicating a significant level of autonomy and influence.

Reporting Structure: The Interior Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Development or a similar senior leader within the project development division. They will also be responsible for managing and mentoring design assistant(s), forming a small but critical team focused on design execution.

Operations Impact: The Interior Design Manager's role directly impacts the company's revenue generation and brand reputation by ensuring that the design and execution of luxury residential and amenity projects meet the highest standards of quality, appeal, and functionality. Effective design management contributes to sales success, client satisfaction, and the overall desirability of Discovery Land Company's properties.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in construction means and methods, value engineering, and large-scale project management within the luxury real estate sector.

• Leadership Development: Potential to lead larger design teams, manage more complex projects, or transition into broader development management roles, potentially overseeing multiple projects or property types.

• Specialization: Develop specialized knowledge in specific areas such as sustainable luxury design, club amenity programming, or the operational integration of smart home technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant step up from a pure interior designer role, emphasizing project delivery and operational integration. Growth paths would likely lead into senior development management or specialized operational roles within the company's expansive portfolio.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Homewood Mountain & Lake Club, suggesting a hybrid work environment that combines office-based design work with on-site project coordination and client meetings within a premium, resort-like setting.

Office Location(s): Homewood Mountain & Lake Club, located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, California. This location offers a stunning natural environment and a high-end operational setting.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely involve a dedicated design office within the club's facilities, equipped with necessary design software, rendering tools, and material samples.

• Collaboration will be a key feature, with opportunities to interact with development teams, construction personnel, sales staff, and club operations management.

• Access to cutting-edge design technology and potentially hands-on interaction with construction sites and amenity spaces will be integral to the role.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is expected, the nature of luxury development and client-driven selections often requires flexibility. This may include occasional evening or weekend meetings to accommodate client schedules or critical project deadlines. The "Exempt" status indicates that overtime pay is not typically applicable, but rather that the role demands commitment to achieving project objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role in a prime location like Lake Tahoe is a significant draw, but candidates should be prepared for the demands of a luxury resort and residential development environment, which often includes client-facing responsibilities outside of standard business hours.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio, focusing on relevant experience in luxury residential/club design, project management, and operational understanding.

• Technical Interview: Likely to involve discussions about your design process, consultant management strategies, experience with construction documents, and familiarity with construction means and methods. Expect questions about your proficiency with required software (Bluebeam, Adobe Suite, AutoCAD, etc.).

• Case Study/Project Deep Dive: You may be asked to present a detailed walkthrough of a past project from your portfolio, focusing on the operational challenges, design decisions, problem-solving, and outcomes. This is where your process documentation and ROI demonstration will be critical.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of your ability to collaborate with diverse teams, manage client relationships, mentor junior staff, and align with Discovery Land Company's culture of excellence and personalized service.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your experience in luxury residential and club amenity design, emphasizing your operational and project management contributions.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, the challenges faced, the design and operational strategies employed, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., budget adherence, schedule milestones met, client satisfaction).

• Showcase Software Proficiency: Visually demonstrate your command of design and project management software through examples of construction documents, renderings, and project management tools.

• Highlight Operations Integration: Explicitly detail how you considered and integrated operational requirements (e.g., back-of-house planning, maintenance, durability) into your design solutions.

• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to discuss every aspect of your portfolio in detail, anticipating questions about design rationale, budget management, consultant coordination, and problem-solving.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions related to managing difficult client selections, resolving design conflicts with consultants, or addressing unexpected construction issues.

• Practice articulating your design vision and operational strategy concisely and persuasively.

• Understand the Discovery Land Company's portfolio and brand to tailor your responses and demonstrate your alignment with their luxury market positioning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize your ability to manage complex projects operationally, not just your aesthetic sensibilities. A portfolio that clearly outlines processes, challenges, and outcomes will be paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Bluebeam Revu: Essential for reviewing, marking up, and collaborating on PDF-based construction documents and specifications. Proficiency is critical for efficient document management and communication with consultants and construction teams.

• Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop): For creating high-quality presentations, mood boards, client selection materials, and marketing collateral. InDesign will be key for compiling selections books.

• Microsoft Project: For project scheduling, task management, and timeline visualization across complex development projects.

• Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel): Standard tools for daily communication, documentation, and data management. Excel will be vital for budget tracking and basic data analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as analytics tools, proficiency in Excel for data analysis related to budgets, schedules, and selections is expected.

• The ability to interpret data from geotechnical studies and specification reviews is also a key requirement. CRM & Automation:

• AutoCAD, SketchUp, BIM/Revit: These are specialized design and modeling software. Familiarity is preferred, indicating an ability to work with or review technical drawings produced by consultants. While not strictly "operations" tools, they are foundational to the design delivery process.

• The role requires coordinating with construction teams who will likely use project management platforms, requiring an understanding of how design integrates into their workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Bluebeam, Adobe Suite, and Microsoft Project clearly defines the core operational software stack for managing design documentation, client communications, and project timelines in this role. Familiarity with BIM/Revit is a strong plus for modern development projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering the highest standards in design, execution, and client experience, reflecting the luxury nature of Discovery Land Company.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively with diverse teams, including design consultants, construction crews, operations staff, and sales professionals, to achieve unified project goals.

• Client-Centricity: A dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations throughout the design and selection process, ensuring a personalized and exceptional experience.

• Efficiency & Precision: A focus on meticulous planning, accurate documentation, and streamlined processes to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget, with a keen eye for operational integration.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all interactions with clients, consultants, and colleagues, representing the Discovery Land Company brand with respect and professionalism.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Responsive: Engaging actively with all stakeholders, anticipating needs, and responding promptly to requests and issues to keep projects moving forward.

• Detail-Oriented Communication: Ensuring all communication, whether written or oral, is clear, concise, and contains the necessary details for effective decision-making and action.

• Process-Driven: Utilizing established workflows and documentation standards to facilitate smooth handoffs between design, construction, and operations teams.

• Solution-Oriented: Approaching challenges with a problem-solving mindset, working collaboratively to find effective and efficient solutions that align with project objectives and quality standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture values a blend of high-end service, operational efficiency, and collaborative execution. For an operations-focused role, demonstrating an understanding of these values and how they translate into daily work is crucial.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the distinct needs and priorities of clients, sales teams, operations, construction, and consultants to ensure project alignment and satisfaction.

• Navigating Complex Project Timelines: Effectively managing intricate schedules with multiple dependencies, potential delays, and the need for rapid decision-making in a fast-paced development environment.

• Integrating Operational Needs into Design: Translating the functional requirements of club operations (front and back-of-house) into aesthetically pleasing and practical design solutions.

• Maintaining Design Integrity Amidst Value Engineering: Championing the design vision while collaborating on cost-saving measures and construction adjustments without compromising quality or brand standards.

• Adapting to Evolving Design Trends and Technologies: Staying current with the latest in luxury design, materials, sustainable practices, and relevant technology (e.g., BIM, smart home integration) within the real estate development sector.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Gaining deeper experience in managing large-scale, multi-faceted luxury development projects from a design operations perspective.

• Operational Immersion: Deepening understanding of club operations, hospitality management, and real estate development lifecycles through direct involvement and collaboration.

• Leadership Skill Development: Mentoring junior design staff, leading project teams, and potentially developing into senior management roles within Discovery Land Company's expanding portfolio.

• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend industry events, workshops, and site visits that expose you to best practices in luxury real estate development and design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding potential challenges and framing them as opportunities for growth demonstrates foresight and problem-solving capabilities, which are highly valued in operations roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting design priorities between a client and the construction team. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and operational compromise.)

• "Walk me through your process for selecting and managing exterior architectural consultants for a luxury residential project. What key criteria do you consider, and how do you ensure they meet project objectives?" (Highlight consultant management, RFP process, and technical review.)

• "How do you approach the programming of back-of-house operational spaces within a luxury club amenity design? Provide an example of how your design decisions improved operational efficiency." (Emphasize understanding of operations and its integration into design.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Discovery Land Company and the Homewood Mountain & Lake Club specifically, and how do you see your design philosophy aligning with our brand?" (Research the company's mission, values, and portfolio.)

• "Describe your experience working within a cross-functional team. How do you ensure effective collaboration between design, development, construction, and operations?" (Focus on communication, process, and shared goals.)

• "How do you measure the success of a design project beyond aesthetics? What key performance indicators (KPIs) do you track?" (Prepare to discuss budget adherence, schedule management, client satisfaction, and operational impact.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the challenge, your approach (process, tools, collaboration), the solution, and the quantifiable results.

• Emphasize Operational Contributions: Explicitly detail your role in managing consultants, client selections, construction documents, and integrating operational requirements.

• Showcase Software Proficiency: Use visual aids to demonstrate your command of Bluebeam, Adobe Suite, and any project management tools used.

• Be Ready to Discuss Budgets & Schedules: Prepare to speak confidently about how you managed financial constraints and timelines for your projects.

• Engage Your Audience: Present with confidence, making eye contact and inviting questions to foster a collaborative discussion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design skill, but also operational acumen, project management capabilities, and a client-centric approach aligned with luxury standards.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-centric Interior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link, ensuring to select the external applicant option if applicable.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as "consultant coordination," "construction documents," "operational programming," "budget management," and "luxury residential design." Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Managed design process for 5 luxury residences, each within a $X budget and Y timeline").

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select projects that best demonstrate your experience in luxury residential and club amenity design, with a strong emphasis on your project management, consultant coordination, and client selection process. Ensure your portfolio clearly outlines your operational contributions and problem-solving skills.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through 1-2 key projects from your portfolio, focusing on articulating your process, the challenges you overcame, and the operational efficiencies or outcomes achieved. Be ready to discuss software proficiency and budget/schedule management.

• Research Discovery Land Company: Understand their mission, portfolio of properties, and commitment to luxury experiences. Familiarize yourself with the Homewood Mountain & Lake Club to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment with their unique environment.

⚠️ 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.