Design Director - Hospitality and Residential

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director - Hospitality and Residential Company: dwp Location: Bangkok, Thailand Job Type: OTHER Category: Design Leadership / Architecture Operations Date Posted: September 11, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the architecture design team, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in design concept development and execution.
• Oversee the comprehensive planning and execution of design projects from initial client brief through to final as-built documentation, ensuring alignment with project scope and client expectations.
• Drive the integration of advanced technologies, including AI tools and BIM, to enhance design processes, improve efficiency, and deliver high-quality, sustainable architectural solutions.
• Manage project finances, including cost control, budget adherence, and team profit & loss, for both turnkey and consulting architecture projects.
• Mentor, train, and supervise architectural staff, promoting professional growth and ensuring high standards in design quality, detailing, and adherence to company policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within the architecture and design function, requiring strong project execution, team management, and strategic oversight capabilities. The emphasis on AI integration and sustainable design indicates a forward-thinking approach to design operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Finalize client briefs and project scope, ensuring clear understanding and sign-off for all architectural design projects.
• Develop and manage design documentation packages, including sketch designs, perspectives, material selections, and detailed working drawings.
• Coordinate effectively with internal teams (BIM, M&E consultants) and external stakeholders (clients, contractors, cost consultants) throughout the project lifecycle.
• Implement and oversee sustainable design principles and practices, ensuring environmental considerations are integrated into all project designs.
• Manage the financial performance of the architecture team, including cost control, budget management, and P&L responsibility for projects.
• Prepare and present design concepts to clients, collaborating with Project Directors to ensure client satisfaction and project success.
• Oversee the creation of as-built drawings and ensure compliance with design specifications and quality management systems.
• Support marketing and business development efforts by preparing proposals and updating company databases (CRM, design database).
• Provide training and mentorship to junior architects and BIM staff, ensuring adherence to dwp's BIM layering, object naming, and drawing guidelines.
• Implement and train the design team on the use of approved AI tools to enhance communication, data management, research, and process automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative leadership, rigorous project management, financial oversight, and technological adoption, typical of a senior design director role focused on operational efficiency and client delivery.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Architecture or equivalent professional degree in Architecture.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in architectural design, with a significant portion focused on the hospitality and residential sectors.
• Proven track record in leading design teams and managing complex architectural projects from concept to completion.

Required Skills:

• Design Leadership & Concept Development: Ability to conceptualize and articulate innovative design solutions for hospitality and residential projects.
• Project Management: Expertise in planning, executing, and closing architectural projects, including scope definition, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to present ideas clearly to clients, teams, and stakeholders.
• Team Management & Mentoring: Proven ability to lead, mentor, train, and supervise design professionals to achieve high-quality outcomes.
• Sustainable Design Principles: In-depth knowledge and practical application of sustainable design practices and environmental considerations in architecture.
• BIM Coordination: Proficiency in coordinating with BIM teams and understanding BIM workflows for construction documentation.
• Cost Control & Financial Management: Experience in managing project budgets, controlling costs, and understanding P&L for design projects.
• Client Liaison: Skill in building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and ensuring satisfaction.

Preferred Skills:

• AI Integration in Design: Experience in implementing and overseeing the use of AI tools (LLMs, Generative AI) within design processes.
• Contract Management: Familiarity with client service and turnkey contract coordination.
• Quality Management Systems: Understanding of and experience with implementing quality management systems in design and construction.
• English Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of technical design skills, strong leadership capabilities, financial acumen, and emerging AI/sustainability expertise is crucial for this role, reflecting industry trends in design operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing a minimum of 10 years of architectural design experience, with a strong emphasis on successfully delivered hospitality and residential projects.
• Provide case studies that illustrate leadership in developing design concepts, managing project workflows, and achieving client objectives.
• Include examples of detailed design development, material selections, and the creation of comprehensive drawing documentation packages.
• Showcase experience in coordinating with BIM teams and other consultants to produce integrated construction documentation.
• Present evidence of managing project budgets, controlling costs, and contributing to the financial success of projects.

Process Documentation:

• Documented examples of project planning methodologies, including client brief finalization, statutory requirement reviews, and document list preparation.
• Workflow diagrams or descriptions illustrating how design project documentation is developed, revised, and approved within a team setting.
• Examples of coordination processes with M&E consultants, BIM teams, and other project stakeholders.
• Evidence of implementing and managing sustainable design practices within project workflows.
• Documentation related to the use and training of AI tools for design enhancement and process automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: A robust portfolio demonstrating successful project delivery, leadership, and a grasp of current design technologies and methodologies will be critical for evaluating candidates. The emphasis on process documentation underscores the need for systematic and repeatable approaches to design operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• For a Design Director with 10+ years of experience in Bangkok, Thailand, the estimated annual salary range is THB 1,500,000 - THB 3,000,000 (approximately $40,000 - $80,000 USD). This estimation is based on industry benchmarks for senior architectural leadership roles in major metropolitan areas in Southeast Asia, considering the cost of living and typical compensation structures for international firms.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and attending industry conferences, especially in areas like AI in design and sustainable architecture.
• Performance Bonuses: Potential for bonuses based on individual and company performance.
• Relocation Assistance: May be provided for candidates relocating to Bangkok.
• Professional Memberships: Support for maintaining professional licenses and memberships.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, as a Director, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and client demands, potentially involving extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. Benefits are standard for a professional role in an international firm and may vary.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Design, and Engineering Services. dwp is a global architecture, interior design, and planning firm with a significant presence in the hospitality and residential sectors, known for delivering innovative and sustainable design solutions. Company Size: dwp is a large organization with a global footprint, likely employing several hundred to thousands of professionals worldwide, with a substantial design studio in Bangkok. This size offers opportunities for diverse project exposure and collaboration across regions. Founded: dwp was founded in 1994, indicating a well-established company with a significant history and experience in the design industry.

Team Structure:

• The Design Director will lead the Architecture Design Team, which likely includes various levels of architects, BIM specialists, interior designers, and potentially junior designers.
• This role reports to senior management, such as a Managing Director or Regional Director, and collaborates closely with Project Directors and other discipline leaders (e.g., M&E, Structural).
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving project managers, business development, marketing, and administrative support teams to ensure seamless project delivery and business growth.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on leveraging data analytics and insights to inform design decisions, optimize project performance, and improve client outcomes.
• Agile Project Planning: Utilizing flexible and iterative planning methods to adapt to changing project requirements and client feedback, particularly in the fast-paced hospitality sector.
• Automation & Efficiency: Proactive adoption of automation tools, including AI and advanced BIM workflows, to streamline processes, reduce manual effort, and enhance overall team productivity.
• Client-Centric Approach: Prioritizing client needs and feedback throughout the design process to ensure alignment and deliver tailored solutions that meet and exceed expectations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: dwp's global presence and focus on hospitality and residential design suggest a dynamic work environment that values creativity, client collaboration, and a commitment to quality and innovation. The integration of AI and sustainability points to a culture that embraces future-forward practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership position, a Design Director, signifying a move into strategic management and team oversight within the operations of a design firm. It implies responsibility for the functional excellence and business performance of the architecture studio. Reporting Structure: The Design Director typically reports to a Managing Director or a senior executive responsible for the firm's overall operations or design practice. They will likely manage a team of architects and designers, and collaborate with Project Directors and other department heads. Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the firm's operational efficiency, profitability, and the quality of its design output. Success in this role contributes significantly to client satisfaction, project success rates, and the overall reputation and growth of dwp in the hospitality and residential sectors.

Growth Opportunities:

• Regional Leadership: Potential to expand responsibilities to oversee design operations across multiple regions or to specialize further within specific design typologies.
• Strategic Development: Opportunity to influence the firm's design strategy, technology adoption (especially AI and BIM), and sustainability initiatives.
• Business Development Influence: Contribution to winning new projects and expanding the client base through high-quality design and strong client relationships.
• Mentorship and Talent Development: A key growth area involves developing and nurturing emerging talent within the architecture team, shaping the future leadership of the firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement into executive leadership positions within a global design firm, with opportunities to shape strategic direction and impact business growth through operational excellence.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a professional office environment in Bangkok, which is likely a modern, collaborative workspace designed to foster creativity and teamwork among design professionals. Office Location(s): Based in Bangkok, Thailand. This location provides access to a vibrant urban center and a significant hub for the hospitality and residential development sectors in Southeast Asia.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Studios: Expect an open-plan or studio-style workspace that encourages interaction, knowledge sharing, and collaborative problem-solving among architects and designers.
• Technology-Enabled Environment: Access to high-performance workstations, advanced design software (CAD, BIM, rendering, AI tools), and robust IT infrastructure is expected to support complex design tasks.
• Project Team Integration: Opportunities to work closely with project managers, BIM coordinators, and other design specialists on a day-to-day basis, fostering a cohesive project team dynamic.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday. However, the demands of a Design Director role, especially in project-intensive industries like hospitality and residential design, often require flexibility. Candidates should be prepared for potential extended hours or weekend work during peak project phases or critical deadlines to ensure project success and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is geared towards creative professionals, emphasizing collaboration, access to cutting-edge technology, and a results-oriented approach to project delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CVs and portfolios to assess experience, qualifications, and alignment with the role's requirements.
• Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior executive or Managing Director) focusing on leadership experience, project management philosophy, and strategic vision for design operations.
• Technical/Design Review: A session potentially involving senior design staff or principals to review the candidate's portfolio, discuss design concepts, and assess technical proficiency, including BIM and AI integration.
• Team/Peer Interviews: Meetings with potential team members or peers to evaluate cultural fit, collaboration style, and leadership approach.
• Final Interview: A final discussion with senior leadership to confirm suitability, discuss compensation, and outline expectations for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your leadership capabilities, design vision, and experience in hospitality and residential sectors. Highlight projects where you led the design concept and managed the team.
• Showcase Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the design challenges, your solutions, and the tangible outcomes (e.g., client satisfaction, project success, efficiency gains). Include examples of how you managed costs and resources.
• Highlight AI & Sustainability: Integrate examples of how you've incorporated AI tools or sustainable design principles into your work, demonstrating your forward-thinking approach.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and professionally presented, whether digital or physical. Be prepared to walk through key projects and discuss them in detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to leading design teams, managing project workflows, and achieving operational efficiency.
• Anticipate questions about your experience with AI in design, sustainable practices, cost control, and client management.
• Consider preparing a brief presentation on a past project where you demonstrated strong leadership and achieved significant design or operational success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess not only design talent but also leadership acumen, operational management skills, and adaptability to new technologies within the design context. A strong portfolio is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, or similar for drafting and design.
• BIM Software: Revit, Archicad, or similar for Building Information Modeling, essential for coordination and documentation.
• 3D Modeling & Rendering: SketchUp, 3ds Max, V-Ray, Lumion, or similar for visualization.
• Project Management Software: Tools like Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or MS Project for workflow planning and task management.
• AI Tools: Familiarity with Generative AI platforms, LLMs (e.g., ChatGPT, Bard), and AI-powered design tools for research, concept generation, and process automation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• CRM Software: For managing client contacts, business development activities, and project pipelines.
• Data Analysis Tools: Potentially Excel or specialized analytics software for tracking project performance, cost analysis, and team productivity.
• Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, or similar for client presentations and internal reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Salesforce, HubSpot, or similar, for marketing and business development operations.
• Cloud Collaboration Tools: Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides), Microsoft 365 (Outlook, OneDrive, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for seamless team collaboration and document management.
• File Sharing & Storage: Dropbox, Google Drive, or similar for managing and sharing project files.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard design software, coupled with experience in project management tools and an emerging familiarity with AI technologies, will be key technical requirements.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Design: A commitment to pushing creative boundaries and delivering high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and functional design solutions.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing collective input, open communication, and mutual support among team members to achieve shared goals.
• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies, methodologies, and ideas to continuously improve processes and design outcomes.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building strong relationships, and ensuring client satisfaction through exceptional service.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding ethical standards, maintaining professionalism in all interactions, and taking responsibility for one's work and its impact.
• Sustainability: Integrating environmentally conscious practices and materials into design to create responsible and future-proof built environments.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively fostering collaboration between architecture, interior design, BIM, M&E, and project management teams to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Open Communication Channels: Encouraging direct and transparent communication among team members, stakeholders, and clients.
• Feedback-Driven Improvement: Creating an environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and utilized for continuous process and design enhancement.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, technical expertise, and innovative solutions across the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at dwp likely emphasizes a blend of creative collaboration, technical proficiency, and a strong client-centric approach, with an increasing focus on technological innovation and sustainable practices.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client Demands: Effectively translating client requirements and budget constraints into innovative and feasible design solutions.
• Managing Multiple Complex Projects Simultaneously: Ensuring timely delivery and high-quality output across a portfolio of diverse hospitality and residential projects.
• Integrating New Technologies (AI, BIM): Successfully implementing and upskilling the team on new technologies to enhance efficiency and design capabilities.
• Maintaining Profitability and Cost Control: Overseeing project finances to ensure profitability while adhering to client budgets and managing design-related costs.
• Leading and Motivating a Diverse Design Team: Fostering a high-performing team culture, managing varying skill sets, and driving continuous professional development.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software & AI Training: Access to training on cutting-edge design tools, BIM advancements, and the application of AI in architectural design and project management.
• Sustainable Design Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications or specialized training in sustainable architecture (e.g., LEED, WELL).
• Leadership and Management Development Programs: Internal or external training focused on leadership skills, financial management, and strategic planning for design professionals.
• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in international architecture and design conferences to stay abreast of industry trends, network with peers, and discover new technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges in design leadership, technology integration, and project management within a global firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a design team through the full project lifecycle, from concept to completion, focusing on operational efficiency and quality control."
• "How have you integrated AI tools or new technologies into your design workflows, and what impact did it have on project outcomes or team productivity?"
• "Walk me through a challenging project where you had to manage client expectations, control costs, and deliver a successful design outcome in the hospitality or residential sector."
• "What is your philosophy on sustainable design, and how do you ensure these principles are embedded in your projects?"
• "How do you foster a collaborative and innovative environment within a design team, and how do you approach mentoring and developing junior talent?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of dwp, how do you see your leadership style aligning with our company values and design philosophy?"
• "What are your expectations regarding collaboration with other departments and senior leadership within dwp?"
• "How do you measure and drive operational efficiency and profitability within an architecture studio?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly stating the project type (hospitality/residential), your role, the timeline, and key achievements.
• Narrative: For each project, tell a story that highlights the design challenge, your strategic approach, the processes you managed, the tools you used (including AI/BIM where applicable), and the measurable results.
• Visuals: Use high-quality renderings, drawings, and diagrams to illustrate your design thinking and technical execution.
• Focus on Leadership: Emphasize your leadership in decision-making, team management, and problem-solving.
• Address Key Responsibilities: Be prepared to discuss how your portfolio examples directly relate to the primary responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly AI integration, sustainability, and cost control.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their leadership philosophy, demonstrate practical experience with relevant technologies, and showcase their ability to manage both the creative and operational aspects of architectural design projects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the provided BambooHR link: https://mydwp.bamboohr.com/careers/332
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature your most relevant hospitality and residential projects, highlighting leadership in design concept development, project management, and any experience with AI integration or sustainable design.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 10+ years of experience, emphasizing leadership roles, project management achievements, and technical skills such as BIM and AI proficiency. Quantify your impact wherever possible (e.g., project value, team size managed, cost savings).
• Prepare for Interview Questions: Review common interview questions for design leadership roles, focusing on your experience with AI, sustainability, cost control, team management, and client relations. Practice articulating your process-driven approach.
• Research dwp: Thoroughly research dwp's projects, design philosophy, and values. Understand their global presence and specific focus areas to align your responses with the company's objectives and culture.

⚠️ 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.