Design Manager - Workplace

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Workplace Company: Gensler Location: Morristown, NJ, US Job Type: Full-Time Category: Design Management / Project Management (Architecture & Interior Design) Date Posted: 2025-12-11 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the full lifecycle of corporate interiors projects, ensuring successful delivery from inception through completion, with a strong emphasis on design integrity and client satisfaction.
• Oversee project setup, design development, and construction administration phases, meticulously tracking project scope, schedule, and budget to maintain fiscal accountability.
• Cultivate and manage client relationships, preparing proposals, negotiating contracts, and coordinating with subcontractors, vendors, and consultants to achieve project objectives.
• Direct and mentor diverse project teams, fostering a collaborative environment to ensure project goals are met efficiently and effectively, while upholding Gensler's design standards.
• Drive business development by maintaining existing client relationships and actively pursuing new client opportunities within the corporate interiors sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Design Manager within the Workplace sector, indicating a focus on commercial interior design projects for corporate clients. The emphasis on project management, client relations, and team leadership suggests a senior role requiring substantial experience in managing complex interior design and build-out projects. The "Workplace" designation implies a specialization in office environments, co-working spaces, and related corporate facilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage all project phases for corporate interiors, including initial project setup, comprehensive design development, and diligent construction administration.
• Define, communicate, and ensure adherence to clear project objectives and specific client requirements, aligning with Gensler's design excellence.
• Develop and meticulously manage project schedules, budgets, and resource allocation, including the procurement and coordination of sub-contractors, vendors, and external consultants.
• Lead, guide, and mentor project teams, which may include project architects, interior designers, job captains, and graphic designers, ensuring cohesive collaboration and individual growth.
• Continuously monitor and report on the financial performance of each project, identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies to ensure profitability and client satisfaction.
• Prepare compelling project proposals, negotiate contracts and fees with clients and stakeholders, and oversee the entire bidding and procurement process.
• Ensure all project deliverables strictly conform to contract specifications, building codes, and regulatory requirements, maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance.
• Actively participate in business development activities, nurturing existing client relationships and identifying/pursuing new opportunities to expand Gensler's market presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a dual focus on project execution and business development. The emphasis on managing the "entire project lifecycle" and "post-occupancy" indicates a need for end-to-end project ownership. The requirement to "maintain existing client relationships and build new client relationships" highlights a significant business development component, crucial for a senior role in a client-facing firm like Gensler.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Accredited degree in Architecture or Interior Design is required.
• AIA, NCIDQ, or CID certification is preferred, demonstrating professional accreditation and advanced knowledge.

Experience:

• 12-18 years of progressive, related professional experience, with a significant portion dedicated to project management in corporate interiors.
• Demonstrated success managing diverse corporate interiors projects from conception through post-occupancy evaluation.
• Proven experience in leading, managing, and mentoring multiple project teams of varying sizes and disciplines.
• Extensive experience in negotiating project scope, contracts, and fees with clients and stakeholders.
• Comprehensive understanding of building codes, industry standards, and structural principles relevant to interior projects.
• Strong track record of fiscal accountability and responsible financial management on complex projects.

Required Skills:

• Project Management: Expertise in managing all project phases, including planning, execution, monitoring, and closure for corporate interiors.
• Corporate Interiors: Deep knowledge of design principles, materials, and construction methods specific to corporate environments.
• Leadership & Team Management: Ability to lead, motivate, and mentor project teams, fostering collaboration and accountability.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication for client presentations, team coordination, and contract negotiation.
• Relationship Management: Proven ability to build and maintain strong, positive relationships with clients, vendors, and internal teams.
• Revit Proficiency: Highly valued skill for design documentation and coordination.
• Financial Acumen: Demonstrated ability to manage project budgets, track financial performance, and ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Negotiation: Strong negotiation skills for contracts, scope, and fees.

Preferred Skills:

• Business Development: Experience in client acquisition, proposal development, and expanding client portfolios.
• Building Codes & Standards: In-depth knowledge of local and national building codes, accessibility standards, and construction best practices.
• Design Software Proficiency: Beyond Revit, familiarity with other relevant design and project management software.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to proactively identify and resolve project challenges efficiently.
• Strategic Planning: Capability to develop strategic project plans that align with client goals and business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 12-18 years, coupled with the preference for AIA/NCIDQ/CID certifications, firmly places this role at a senior level. The explicit mention of Revit as "highly valued" indicates its importance in the day-to-day operations of project teams and suggests candidates should be proficient or have a strong understanding of its application in design and documentation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex corporate interiors projects managed from initiation to completion, demonstrating end-to-end project lifecycle expertise.
• Include detailed case studies for each project, highlighting your specific role, project scope, budget managed, team size, and key challenges overcome.
• Present visual documentation (renderings, photos, floor plans) that effectively communicates the design intent and final outcome of your managed projects.
• Provide evidence of successful client relationship management, client testimonials, or examples of repeat business generated.
• Clearly articulate your approach to project scheduling, budget control, and risk mitigation strategies with quantifiable results.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate a structured approach to project setup, including contract review, team assembly, and initial project planning.
• Detail your methodology for design development coordination, including client approvals, consultant integration, and scope management.
• Illustrate your process for construction administration, including RFIs, submittals, site visits, and punch lists, with an emphasis on quality control and compliance.
• Provide examples of how you track and report on project financials, including budget variance analysis and forecasting.
• Showcase your methods for managing project documentation, ensuring all records are accurate, organized, and accessible.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a robust portfolio is critical. It should not only showcase design aesthetics but also a candidate's project management rigor. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating a systematic approach to managing project finances, schedules, and client expectations, supported by quantifiable achievements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Base Salary: $110,000 - $140,000 per year.
• Additional Compensation: This range is exclusive of potential bonuses and profit sharing, which are also offered.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance; disability insurance; and robust wellness programs.
• Financial Security: Flexible spending accounts (FSA), 401k retirement plan with company match, and profit sharing.
• Employee Ownership: Participation in an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP).
• Time Off: Generous paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
• Professional Development: Twice annual bonus opportunities, reimbursement for certain professional licenses and renewals, tuition reimbursement for eligible programs, and strong internal professional development programs.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time commitment, typically around 40 hours per week.
• While on-site, there is an expectation of flexibility to meet project demands and client needs, which may occasionally require extended hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range of $110,000 - $140,000 for a Design Manager with 12-18 years of experience in Morristown, NJ, aligns with industry benchmarks for senior design and project management roles in a major metropolitan area. The inclusion of bonuses, profit sharing, and employee stock ownership significantly enhances the total compensation package. The extensive benefits list, particularly professional development support, underscores Gensler's investment in its employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Design, and Urban Planning. Gensler is a global leader in the design industry, known for its innovative and client-focused approach across a wide range of sectors, including workplace, retail, hospitality, healthcare, and civic projects. Company Size: Over 6,000 employees across more than 50 offices globally. This large, international presence offers extensive resources, diverse project opportunities, and a broad network for collaboration and professional development. Founded: 1965. With a long-standing history, Gensler has established itself as a reputable and influential firm, consistently pushing the boundaries of design and client service.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Structure: While this role is in Design Management, it operates within Gensler's broader project delivery framework. Project teams are typically cross-functional, comprising architects, interior designers, graphic designers, job captains, and project managers, all working collaboratively under the guidance of senior leadership.
• Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Practice Area Leader, Studio Director, or Senior Principal, depending on the specific office structure and project assignments.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: This role is inherently collaborative, requiring close interaction with design teams, consultants, contractors, clients, and business development professionals. The emphasis is on seamless integration to achieve project success.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Gensler emphasizes a research-informed design process, utilizing data and insights to understand user needs, market trends, and performance metrics to inform design solutions.
• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The firm focuses on developing efficient workflows for project delivery, leveraging technology and best practices to streamline processes from initial concept to final execution.
• Automation & Efficiency: While primarily a design and project management role, there's an underlying drive for efficiency, encouraging the adoption of tools and processes that enhance productivity and project outcomes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Gensler's global footprint and long history suggest a well-established, structured, yet dynamic work environment. The "Workplace" designation within Gensler indicates a specialized practice area focusing on corporate environments, which likely involves significant client interaction and a strong emphasis on delivering functional, aesthetically pleasing, and future-forward office spaces.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Design Manager - Workplace. This is a senior-level position focused on managing complex projects and client relationships within the corporate interiors sector. It requires a blend of design sensibility, strong project management capabilities, and business development acumen.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Morristown office, such as a Design Director, Studio Director, or Managing Principal. This reporting line ensures oversight and strategic alignment with the firm's overall goals and practice area objectives.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a pivotal role in translating client visions into tangible, high-performing workplace environments. Their impact is measured not only by the successful delivery of projects on time and within budget but also by their contribution to client satisfaction, repeat business, and Gensler's reputation for design excellence. They are instrumental in shaping the functional and aesthetic quality of corporate spaces, directly influencing employee productivity, well-being, and the overall success of client organizations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance to Senior Design Manager, Principal, or leadership roles within specific practice areas or Gensler's global network.
• Specialization Deepening: Opportunity to become a recognized expert in specific aspects of workplace design, such as sustainable design, technology integration, or future of work strategies.
• Business Development Expansion: Develop a stronger client base, take on larger and more complex projects, and potentially lead business development efforts for the Morristown office's Workplace practice.
• Mentorship & Training: Opportunities to mentor junior designers and project managers, contributing to the firm's talent development and knowledge transfer.
• Global Mobility: Potential for relocation or project involvement with Gensler's international offices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within Gensler, moving from managing individual projects to potentially leading entire practice areas or business units. The emphasis on client relationship management and business development suggests that success in this role can lead to significant leadership and strategic responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Gensler offices are typically designed to reflect their commitment to innovation and design excellence. They are modern, collaborative spaces that often showcase cutting-edge design principles and serve as a testament to the firm's capabilities. Office Location(s): Morristown, NJ, US. This location likely serves clients in the greater New York metropolitan area and surrounding regions, offering a vibrant professional environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect an open and dynamic workspace designed to foster collaboration, idea sharing, and cross-pollination of creativity among team members.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-leading design software (including Revit), project management tools, and Gensler's proprietary research and technology platforms.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with a diverse range of design professionals, project managers, and senior leadership, facilitating continuous learning and professional networking.

Work Schedule: Primarily on-site in the Morristown office, with a commitment to standard full-time working hours (approximately 40 hours/week). However, flexibility is expected to meet project deadlines and client demands, which may occasionally require working beyond standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: Gensler's reputation for design excellence extends to its own office spaces. Candidates can expect a stimulating, aesthetically pleasing, and technologically advanced work environment that supports collaboration and innovation. The on-site requirement is standard for client-facing roles in architecture and design, emphasizing the importance of in-person interaction and team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio by HR and the hiring manager to assess qualifications and experience alignment.
2. First Interview: Typically with the hiring manager or a senior member of the design/project management team. This interview will focus on your project management experience, leadership style, and understanding of corporate interiors. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.
3. Portfolio Review & Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio. This is your opportunity to showcase your project management process, design rationale, client management skills, and problem-solving abilities. Prepare to discuss challenges, solutions, and outcomes.
4. Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with other team members, including designers, project architects, and potentially senior leadership. This assesses cultural fit, collaboration style, and your ability to integrate into the existing team dynamic.
5. Final Interview: Potentially with a Principal or senior executive, focusing on strategic thinking, business development capabilities, and overall fit with Gensler's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful corporate interiors projects that best demonstrate your project management skills, design leadership, and client success.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's objectives, your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable results achieved. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate your impact (e.g., projects completed on time/under budget, cost savings, client satisfaction scores, team efficiency improvements).
• Highlight Process: Showcase your project management methodology, including how you handle scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and team coordination. Visual aids like timelines or budget breakdowns can be effective.
• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is professionally designed, visually engaging, and easy to navigate. High-quality images and clear layouts are essential.
• Tailor to Gensler: Research Gensler's recent work in the workplace sector and subtly align your presentation with their design philosophy and client engagement approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• Hypothetical Project Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical project challenge where you might need to outline your approach to managing a difficult client, a budget overrun, or a scheduling conflict.
• Design Rationale: You may be asked to articulate the design rationale behind specific decisions in your presented projects, demonstrating your understanding of how design impacts functionality and user experience.
• Business Development Pitch: Practice articulating how you would approach securing new clients or expanding existing relationships for Gensler's Workplace practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly evaluate both technical project management skills and the candidate's ability to lead, collaborate, and contribute to business growth. A strong portfolio presentation is paramount, serving as the primary vehicle for demonstrating these capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for architectural and interior design documentation, modeling, and coordination. Proficiency is highly valued.
• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like MS Project, Asana, Monday.com, or Gensler's internal project management systems for scheduling, task management, and resource allocation.
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for real-time team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Financial Management Software: Proficiency in tools for budget tracking, forecasting, and financial reporting (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or specialized construction accounting software).
• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to use or interpret data from dashboards for project performance tracking, financial health, and client updates.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Experience with CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) for managing client relationships, tracking leads, and supporting business development efforts.
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with cloud-based document repositories (e.g., SharePoint, Google Drive) for organized storage and retrieval of project documentation.
• Proposal Generation Tools: Experience with software or templates used for creating professional project proposals.

📝 Enhancement Note: While Revit is specifically called out, a broad understanding of project management software, financial tools, and CRM systems is expected. Gensler, as a large firm, likely utilizes a suite of integrated tools, so adaptability and a willingness to learn new platforms are key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Clients First: A deep commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building long-term partnerships based on trust and exceptional service.
• Excellence: A relentless pursuit of design excellence, innovation, and quality in every project undertaken.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings, fostering transparency and accountability.
• Collaboration: Believing that the best design solutions emerge from diverse perspectives and collaborative teamwork across disciplines and geographies.
• Sustainability: Commitment to designing spaces that are environmentally responsible, socially equitable, and economically viable.
• Innovation: Encouraging curiosity, experimentation, and the adoption of new ideas and technologies to push the boundaries of design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Gensler fosters a highly collaborative environment where designers, architects, project managers, and consultants work seamlessly together, sharing knowledge and expertise to achieve project goals.
• Process Review & Feedback: An open culture that encourages constructive feedback and continuous improvement of design and project management processes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Strong emphasis on internal knowledge sharing through project retrospectives, design critiques, and internal training programs, promoting collective learning and growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: Gensler's values emphasize client focus, design excellence, and collaborative innovation. Candidates should demonstrate how their work ethic and professional approach align with these principles, particularly in their ability to foster strong client relationships and lead diverse project teams effectively.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Client Demands with Project Constraints: Effectively managing client expectations while navigating budget limitations, tight schedules, and evolving project requirements.
• Leading Diverse Teams: Successfully motivating and coordinating teams with varied skill sets, personalities, and professional backgrounds to achieve a unified project vision.
• Navigating Complex Projects: Handling multifaceted projects involving multiple stakeholders, intricate building systems, and stringent regulatory compliance.
• Staying Ahead of Industry Trends: Continuously adapting to new design methodologies, emerging technologies, and evolving workplace trends to deliver cutting-edge solutions.
• Business Development Pressure: Consistently contributing to business development efforts, securing new projects, and expanding client portfolios in a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in project management methodologies, financial controls, and contract negotiation.
• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events, workshops, and obtaining professional certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED AP).
• Mentorship & Leadership Development: Access to mentorship programs and leadership training designed to cultivate future leaders within Gensler.
• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a wide array of workplace projects, from startups to large multinational corporations, providing broad exposure to different client needs and design challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges related to complex project management and client relations, but these are directly tied to substantial growth opportunities within Gensler's global structure. The firm's investment in professional development ensures that employees are equipped to meet these challenges and advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a project with significant budget constraints. How did you ensure project success while staying within budget?" (Focus: Financial Management, Problem-Solving)
• "Walk me through your process for managing a corporate interiors project from initial client meeting to post-occupancy." (Focus: Process, Project Lifecycle Management)
• "How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with demanding clients?" (Focus: Client Management, Communication)
• "Describe a situation where you had to lead a diverse project team through a difficult challenge. What was your leadership approach?" (Focus: Leadership, Team Management)
• "How do you stay current with workplace design trends and integrate them into your projects?" (Focus: Industry Knowledge, Innovation)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Gensler's Workplace practice specifically?" (Focus: Research, Alignment)
• "How do you see your skills and experience contributing to Gensler's mission and values?" (Focus: Cultural Fit, Value Proposition)
• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you foster collaboration." (Focus: Teamwork, Collaboration Style)
• "How do you approach measuring the success of a project beyond just budget and schedule?" (Focus: Impact Measurement, Client Satisfaction)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose projects that best showcase your project management rigor, client leadership, and successful delivery of corporate interiors. Aim for variety in scale and complexity if possible.
• Narrative Flow: Structure your presentation around a clear narrative for each project: Client Need -> Your Role & Strategy -> Key Challenges -> Solutions Implemented -> Measurable Results.
• Visual Support: Use high-quality images, floor plans, and possibly brief video clips to illustrate your design and construction management expertise.
• Data-Driven Insights: Highlight quantitative achievements (e.g., % budget saved, % schedule adherence, client feedback scores) and qualitative impacts (e.g., improved employee experience, enhanced brand representation).
• Interactivity: Be prepared to answer in-depth questions about your decisions, processes, and problem-solving approaches. Engage the interviewers by asking thoughtful questions about their projects and the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate specific examples using the STAR method and be ready to discuss their project management philosophy and how they integrate design excellence with business objectives. The portfolio presentation is a critical component, serving as the primary demonstration of their capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager - Workplace position:

• Submit your application through the Gensler Careers portal link provided.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 key corporate interiors projects, emphasizing your project management contributions, client leadership, and quantifiable results. Ensure it is visually appealing and easy to navigate.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight 12+ years of relevant experience, specific project management achievements in corporate interiors, leadership roles, and proficiency in Revit and financial management. Use keywords like "Project Management," "Corporate Interiors," "Design Administration," "Construction Administration," and "Client Relationship Management."
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your project management methodologies, leadership style, and business development approach using the STAR method. Practice articulating your project successes and challenges.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Gensler's Workplace practice, recent projects, and company values. Understand their design philosophy and how your experience aligns with their strategic goals.

⚠️ 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.