Design Director - Architecture

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director - Architecture
Company: dwp
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Job Type: Other
Category: Architecture & Design Operations
Date Posted: August 13, 2025
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads and mentors the architecture design team, driving the development of innovative design solutions and ensuring high-quality project execution.
• Oversees the entire design lifecycle from initial concept and client brief finalization through to construction documentation and project handover.
• Manages project workflows, resource allocation, and cost control for architecture projects, ensuring profitability and client satisfaction.
• Integrates advanced technologies, including AI and BIM, into design processes to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and design outcomes.
• Acts as a key liaison with clients, consultants, and contractors, fostering strong relationships and ensuring project alignment with business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a leadership function within the architecture discipline, focusing on operational excellence, team management, and strategic project delivery. The emphasis on AI integration and sustainable design indicates a forward-thinking approach to modern architectural practice.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the architecture design team, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Develop and refine design concepts, ensuring alignment with client briefs, statutory requirements, and company standards.
• Prepare comprehensive project documentation, including sketch designs, working drawings, and specifications for tenders and construction.
• Plan and optimize team workflows, manage resource allocation, and oversee project schedules to ensure timely and efficient delivery.
• Implement and manage cost control measures for architecture projects, ensuring profitability and adherence to budgets.
• Drive the adoption and integration of AI tools and BIM technologies within the design process to enhance productivity and design quality.
• Mentor, train, and supervise architects and design staff, promoting professional development and high-quality output.
• Collaborate with other consultants (M&E, BIM, etc.) and contractors to ensure seamless project coordination and execution.
• Support marketing and business development initiatives by preparing proposals and contributing to client engagement.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, quality management systems, and sustainable design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative leadership, project management, financial oversight, and team development, crucial for a senior operations role in an architecture firm. The specific mention of AI integration and BIM coordination are key operational aspects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Architecture or equivalent degree in Architecture.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in architectural design and project management.
• Proven track record in leading design teams and managing multiple concurrent projects.

Required Skills:

• Architectural Design Expertise: Proficient in developing design concepts, creating detailed design documentation, and selecting materials.
• Project Management: Strong ability to plan, execute, and close projects, including workflow management, resource allocation, and schedule adherence.
• Team Leadership & Mentoring: Demonstrated experience in leading, mentoring, and developing design teams to achieve high performance.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and spoken English, with strong interpersonal and client liaison capabilities.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with architectural design software, BIM coordination, and an aptitude for adopting new technologies like AI.
• Cost Control & Financial Management: Experience in managing project costs and contributing to profit and loss responsibility for the team.
• Sustainable Design Principles: Understanding and application of sustainable design practices in architectural projects.
• Quality Management: Commitment to upholding quality standards and implementing continuous improvement measures.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI tools, including LLMs and Generative AI, for design enhancement.
• Proficiency in BIM software and coordination with BIM teams.
• Experience in proposal preparation and business development support.
• Knowledge of local statutory requirements and submission processes in Thailand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of technical design acumen, robust project management capabilities, and strong leadership qualities. The explicit need for AI integration and BIM coordination points to the operational focus on leveraging technology for efficiency and competitive advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a portfolio demonstrating a range of successful architectural projects, highlighting leadership in design concept development and project execution.
• Include examples of project documentation, including sketch designs, detailed drawings, and specifications, illustrating a clear design process.
• Present case studies that demonstrate effective team management, workflow optimization, and successful project delivery under challenging conditions.
• Provide evidence of cost control measures implemented and their impact on project profitability.
• Feature projects that incorporate sustainable design principles and innovative technological solutions (e.g., BIM, AI-assisted design).

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in creating and managing project documentation, from client briefs to final as-built drawings.
• Illustrate the process for coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (M&E, BIM, QS) and external stakeholders.
• Show examples of workflow planning, resource allocation strategies, and team supervision methodologies.
• Include documentation related to quality management systems and continuous improvement initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role, serving as tangible proof of design leadership, project management capabilities, and operational efficiency. The emphasis on process documentation and system integration reflects the need for structured and repeatable success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Design Director role with 10+ years of experience in a major metropolitan area like Bangkok, Thailand, the estimated annual salary range is approximately THB 1,500,000 - THB 2,500,000. This estimate considers the leadership responsibilities, technical expertise, and the financial oversight required for the position.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary package.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in cutting-edge design technologies and practices.
• Exposure to diverse and high-profile architectural projects.
• Contribution to a dynamic and collaborative international design firm.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits (specifics to be confirmed by the employer).
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and other incentives.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time professional role. However, given the nature of project deadlines and client demands, flexibility may be required to ensure project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for senior architectural leadership roles in Thailand. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and negotiation. Benefits are inferred based on typical offerings for such positions in international firms.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Urban Planning, and Design. dwp is a global design firm with a reputation for delivering innovative and sustainable solutions across various sectors, including hospitality, commercial, and residential. Company Size: dwp is a well-established international firm with a significant global presence, employing a substantial number of professionals across multiple offices. This indicates a structured organization with established processes and a diverse talent pool. Founded: dwp was founded in 1994, signifying decades of experience and a proven track record in the design industry. This history suggests a stable organization with a deep understanding of market dynamics and client needs.

Team Structure:

• The Architecture studio likely comprises various levels of architects, designers, BIM specialists, and support staff.
• The Design Director will report to senior leadership, potentially a Managing Director or Regional Head.
• Collaboration is expected across internal teams (e.g., BIM, Project Management) and with external consultants, clients, and contractors.

Methodology:

• dwp likely employs a project-based methodology, emphasizing client collaboration and integrated design processes.
• The firm's global presence suggests a focus on standardized operational procedures combined with local expertise.
• The emphasis on AI and sustainable design indicates a commitment to leveraging technology and responsible practices in project delivery.

Company Website: https://www.dwp.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: dwp's global reach and long history suggest a professional environment with established operational frameworks. The focus on innovation, sustainability, and technology integration implies a dynamic culture that values forward-thinking approaches to design and project management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior leadership level within the operations of an architecture practice, designated as a Director. It signifies a move from individual contribution or team management to strategic oversight of an entire design studio's operational output, financial performance, and team development. Reporting Structure: The Design Director will likely report to a Managing Director or a senior executive responsible for the firm's overall operations or regional performance. This position holds significant responsibility and influence within the organization. Operations Impact: The Design Director's impact is substantial, directly influencing project profitability, client satisfaction, team efficiency, and the firm's reputation for design quality and innovation. Strategic decisions made in this role can shape the firm's success and market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher executive roles, such as Regional Director or Global Head of Design, overseeing larger portfolios and strategic initiatives.
• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like sustainable design leadership, BIM strategy, or AI integration within architecture.
• Business Development: Grow involvement in business development, client acquisition, and strategic partnerships, expanding influence beyond design operations.
• Global Mobility: Potential for international assignments or leadership roles in other dwp offices, leveraging global experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role represents a significant career progression into senior management, requiring not only design excellence but also strong operational and business acumen. Growth opportunities focus on expanding leadership scope, technical specialization, and strategic impact within a global firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is expected to be a professional, modern office setting typical of a leading international design firm. This includes collaborative workspaces, private offices for focused work, and meeting rooms equipped for client presentations and team discussions. Office Location(s): The role is based in Bangkok, Thailand. The specific office location will be a professional hub designed to foster creativity and collaboration among architects and designers.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Open-plan areas and dedicated team rooms designed to encourage interaction, knowledge sharing, and cross-pollination of ideas among designers.
• Technology Integration: Access to state-of-the-art design software, BIM platforms, high-performance computing resources, and potentially VR/AR tools to support advanced design processes.
• Client Interaction: Professional meeting spaces equipped for client presentations, design reviews, and stakeholder engagement.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely Monday to Friday, approximately 40 hours per week. However, project-driven environments often require flexibility, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases or client meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is geared towards facilitating creative collaboration and efficient project delivery, supported by modern technology and professional amenities. Flexibility in work hours is a common expectation in senior design roles to meet project demands.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.
• First Interview: Likely with HR or a hiring manager to discuss your background, motivations, and general fit for the company culture and role.
• Technical/Design Interview: An in-depth discussion with senior architectural staff or leadership to evaluate your design philosophy, technical skills, project management approach, and leadership capabilities. This may involve a portfolio presentation.
• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to prepare and present a case study from your portfolio, detailing a complex project, your role in it, and the operational strategies you employed.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a Managing Director or senior executive for a final assessment of strategic fit, leadership potential, and cultural alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your leadership in design, project management, team coordination, and problem-solving.
• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, design decisions, and leadership actions in each project.
• Showcase Process: Include examples of your design process, from concept development to detailed documentation, and how you managed workflows and team efforts.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your projects, such as efficiency gains, cost savings, or client satisfaction improvements.
• Address AI/Sustainability: If applicable, highlight projects where you integrated AI tools or sustainable design practices.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Be prepared to discuss any aspect of it in detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Thinking: Be ready to discuss your approach to solving design challenges, considering client briefs, site constraints, and innovative solutions.
• Operational Scenarios: Prepare for questions about managing team conflicts, resource constraints, tight deadlines, and quality control issues within an architectural context.
• Leadership & Management: Anticipate questions about your management style, how you motivate teams, and how you handle performance issues.
• Business Acumen: Understand how design decisions impact project costs, profitability, and business development.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio and the ability to articulate your operational strategies and leadership approach are paramount for this role. The interview process will likely assess both creative and managerial competencies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD, Revit, ArchiCAD, or similar for architectural drafting and modeling.
• BIM Software: Revit, Navisworks, or other BIM platforms for integrated design, coordination, and documentation.
• 3D Modeling & Rendering: SketchUp, 3ds Max, V-Ray, Lumion, or similar for visualization.
• Project Management Software: Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com, or similar for workflow and schedule management.
• Design Collaboration Tools: Platforms for file sharing and collaboration like BIM 360, Autodesk Construction Cloud.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Cost Management Tools: Software for cost estimation, control, and financial reporting (e.g., QS software, Excel).
• Performance Tracking: Tools for monitoring team productivity, project timelines, and quality metrics.
• CRM Software: For managing client relationships and business development activities.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Potentially Salesforce, HubSpot, or industry-specific CRM solutions for managing client data.
• AI Tools: LLMs (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard), Generative AI tools for design exploration, research, and content creation.
• Workflow Automation: Tools or scripting for automating repetitive design tasks or data management processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard architectural design software, BIM platforms, and project management tools is essential. The role also requires an understanding and willingness to integrate emerging AI technologies into the design and operational workflow.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A commitment to producing high-quality, innovative, and aesthetically pleasing architectural designs.
• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and satisfaction through effective communication, collaboration, and delivery of outstanding results.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all professional dealings and project execution.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together, share knowledge, and achieve collective success.
• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies, methodologies, and ideas to drive continuous improvement and stay at the forefront of the industry.
• Sustainability: Integrating environmentally responsible practices and principles into all aspects of design and project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively working with M&E consultants, BIM specialists, Quantity Surveyors, and Project Directors to ensure seamless project integration.
• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and regular communication with team members, clients, and stakeholders.
• Feedback Culture: Promoting a culture where constructive feedback is shared and acted upon to enhance design quality and operational efficiency.
• Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the sharing of best practices, technical knowledge, and lessons learned across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: dwp likely fosters a culture that values professional collaboration, client satisfaction, and a commitment to delivering exceptional design solutions. The emphasis on innovation and sustainability suggests an environment that encourages forward-thinking approaches.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Commercial Demands: Effectively merging artistic design aspirations with project budget constraints and client expectations.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Navigating the varied requirements and expectations of clients, consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Integrating New Technologies: Successfully implementing and training teams on new AI tools and advanced BIM workflows while maintaining project momentum.
• Global Project Coordination: Ensuring consistency and quality across projects located in different regions with varying regulations and contexts.
• Talent Development and Retention: Attracting, developing, and retaining top architectural talent in a competitive global market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Technologies: Access to training and resources for mastering new AI tools, advanced BIM features, and visualization software.
• Leadership & Management Skills: Opportunities to develop strategic leadership, financial management, and team development expertise through workshops and mentorship.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading architecture and design events to stay abreast of industry trends, innovations, and best practices.
• Cross-cultural Collaboration: Gaining experience working on international projects and with diverse teams, enhancing global perspective and adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex design and operational challenges, fostering significant professional growth in leadership, technology adoption, and strategic management within a global context.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• How would you approach developing a design concept for a complex mixed-use development, considering client objectives, site context, and sustainability goals?
• Describe your process for managing a team of architects and designers through a challenging project with tight deadlines and budget constraints.
• How do you ensure quality and consistency in design documentation across multiple projects and team members?
• What is your strategy for integrating AI tools into the architectural design workflow to enhance efficiency and creativity?
• How do you approach client communication and stakeholder management to ensure project alignment and satisfaction?
• Discuss your experience with cost control and profit and loss management for architectural projects.

Company & Culture Questions:

• What interests you about dwp and this specific Design Director role?
• How do your leadership style and values align with dwp's culture?
• How do you foster a collaborative and innovative environment within a design team?
• What are your thoughts on the future of AI in architectural design?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the design process, key challenges, solutions, and the final outcome.
• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your contributions to design direction, team management, and project coordination.
• Showcase Technical Skills: Demonstrate your proficiency with design software, BIM, and any AI tools used.
• Focus on Process: Explain your workflow, how you managed resources, and how you ensured quality and efficiency.
• Quantify Success: Use data and metrics to illustrate project achievements, such as budget adherence, timeline management, or design impact.
• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your design choices, project management decisions, and team interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong blend of creative leadership, operational management skills, and a clear understanding of how to leverage technology for project success. Your ability to articulate your process and impact through your portfolio is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Director - Architecture position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on mydwp.bamboohr.com.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience in architectural design leadership, project management, team supervision, cost control, and any relevant technology integration (BIM, AI). Quantify achievements where possible.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 key projects that best showcase your design leadership, project delivery, and operational management skills. Ensure it is professionally presented and easily accessible.
• Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to discuss your portfolio projects in detail, focusing on your role, challenges, solutions, and operational strategies employed. Practice presenting your work concisely and effectively.
• Research dwp: Familiarize yourself with dwp's projects, design philosophy, and values. Understand their approach to sustainability and technology integration.

⚠️ 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.

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