Project Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Project Design Manager

Company: Cushman & Wakefield

Location: Saint Louis, Missouri, USA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design & Project Management (Commercial Real Estate/Hospitality)

Date Posted: June 25, 2026

Experience Level: 7+ Years (Mid to Senior Level)

Remote Status: Hybrid (with ~20% travel)

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the end-to-end design and project management lifecycle for new restaurant environments, encompassing conversions and new builds, with a strong focus on brand standards and operational efficiency.

• Translate programmatic and operational requirements into clear design intent documentation, including conceptual layouts, test fits, and renderings, for various stakeholders and external consultants.

• Serve as a key design liaison, coordinating efforts between internal Architecture, Kitchen Design, Equipment, Development, and Construction teams to ensure seamless project execution.

• Manage project teams by providing strategic direction, reviewing deliverables, and ensuring alignment with design principles, operational workflows, and critical project timelines.

• Evaluate site-specific constraints and existing conditions to devise creative, technically sound design solutions that balance brand integrity with real-world feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Project Design Manager," the responsibilities and required experience strongly indicate a role focused on operationalizing design within a specific industry (restaurant/hospitality) for a commercial real estate firm. This role bridges design, project management, and operational understanding, requiring a candidate who can translate high-level design concepts into tangible, executable plans within the built environment. It is not a typical Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, but rather a specialized function within a large corporate real estate services organization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive design and project management process for new restaurant environments, including conversions, free-standing buildings, and in-line locations, ensuring adherence to brand standards while adeptly navigating unique site constraints.

• Independently develop conceptual layouts, test fits, design studies, and detailed renderings, effectively translating program requirements and operational needs into clear design intent for architects, kitchen designers, and other consultants.

• Manage project teams by providing clear direction, meticulously reviewing all deliverables, and ensuring consistent alignment with established design principles, operational workflows, and critical project timelines.

• Act as the primary design liaison, fostering effective communication and collaboration between internal Architecture, Kitchen Design, Equipment, Development & Construction teams for all new restaurant projects.

• Analyze existing conditions, field complexities, and site limitations to propose creative, technically sound design solutions that effectively balance brand standards with practical real-world constraints.

• Review architectural drawings, prototypes, and program updates to identify potential impacts on new restaurant projects, proactively communicating any necessary changes to both internal and external partners.

• Oversee the selection and specification of furniture, fixtures, equipment (FF&E), and millwork, including the review of layout drawings and detailed product descriptions, to ensure they meet client requirements and brand guidelines.

• Maintain clear, proactive, and consistent communication with all internal and external stakeholders regarding project risks, critical design decisions, program changes, and projected timelines.

• Conduct periodic site visits to gain a deep understanding of real-world performance, build strong relationships with field teams, and ensure design intent is accurately translated and upheld throughout the construction phase.

• Support and drive change management initiatives by assisting teams in adopting new standards, materials, workflows, and prototype enhancements across various restaurant formats.

• Uphold disciplined stewardship and represent the Cushman & Wakefield brand with excellence in all design-related activities, communications, and decision-making touchpoints.

• Demonstrate the ability to plan effectively and meet deadlines for managing multiple concurrent projects across various stages of development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative design execution, rigorous project management, and cross-functional team leadership within the context of commercial real estate development, specifically for restaurant clients. The role requires a candidate who can not only design but also manage the entire process from concept to construction, acting as a central point of contact and problem-solver.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a closely related design discipline is required. Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in commercial design, architecture, or project management.

• Preference for candidates with specific experience in the restaurant or hospitality sectors. Required Skills:

• Strong foundational understanding of architectural design principles, front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) workflows, site design considerations, kitchen equipment adjacencies, comprehensive space planning, and construction processes.

• Proven track record in developing conceptual layouts, performing test fits, and creating clear design intent documents, while successfully managing multiple projects simultaneously at various developmental stages.

• Demonstrated experience in directing and critically reviewing work produced by external architects, specialized kitchen designers, and engineering consultants.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, coupled with strong presentation abilities, enabling effective influence and collaboration across diverse teams including Design, Operations, Equipment, and Construction.

• High proficiency in Bluebeam and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is mandatory.

• Comfort operating effectively in ambiguous, fast-paced environments, with a demonstrated ability to adapt to evolving standards and site-specific constraints.

• Willingness and ability to travel approximately 20% of the time for project reviews, site visits, and partner engagement. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp.

• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Knowledge of rendering tools like Enscape, TwinMotion, or similar visualization software.

• Experience in change management processes within design and construction environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical design skills, project management acumen, and interpersonal capabilities. The preference for restaurant/hospitality experience and specific software proficiencies (Bluebeam, CAD, rendering tools) are key differentiators. The ability to manage ambiguity and travel is also a critical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a minimum of 3-5 comprehensive project case studies that showcase a complete design and project management lifecycle, from initial concept to final execution.

• Each case study should clearly articulate the project’s objectives, design challenges, and the candidate's specific role and contributions.

• Highlight examples of conceptual layouts, test fits, and design intent documentation that effectively translated client needs into actionable plans.

• Include visual evidence of FF&E and millwork selection, layout drawings, and specifications where applicable.

• Showcase experience in managing external consultants (architects, kitchen designers) and documenting the review process. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of process documentation or workflow diagrams that illustrate how you manage design projects from initiation through completion, including client communication protocols.

• Detail your approach to evaluating existing conditions and site constraints, and how these analyses inform design decisions and solutions.

• Illustrate your methods for tracking project timelines, managing deliverables, and ensuring adherence to brand standards and operational requirements.

• Include documentation or descriptions of how you have supported change management initiatives related to design standards or workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just be a collection of pretty pictures, but a demonstration of the candidate's ability to manage complex design projects with a focus on operational feasibility and brand consistency. The emphasis should be on the process, problem-solving, and management aspects, not just the aesthetic outcome.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,750.00 - $95,000.00 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage (medical, vision, and dental).

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for healthcare expense management.

• Retirement savings plans (e.g., 401(k) with potential company match).

• Life insurance and disability insurance programs.

• Generous paid time away from work (vacation, sick leave, holidays).

• Unpaid time away from work options. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility potentially available depending on project demands and team needs. The role involves managing multiple projects, which may require adaptive scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and falls within typical mid-to-senior level ranges for Project Design Managers in major US metropolitan areas. The benefits package is standard for a large corporate entity like Cushman & Wakefield, offering a robust suite of employee support programs. The travel requirement of ~20% should be factored into work-life balance considerations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Commercial Real Estate Services, specializing in consulting, design, and project management for corporate clients, with a significant focus on retail and hospitality sectors.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (Cushman & Wakefield is a global leader with tens of thousands of employees worldwide). This implies a structured environment with established processes, ample resources, and opportunities for specialization.

Founded: Cushman & Wakefield has a long history, with roots tracing back to 1917, indicating a stable, established, and experienced organization with deep industry knowledge.

Team Structure:

• The role supports the client's regional Design Leader, suggesting a hierarchical structure within the design function.

• The Project Design Manager will lead project teams, indicating direct management responsibilities and the need to coordinate with various internal disciplines (Architecture, Kitchen Design, Equipment, Development & Construction).

• Collaboration is a key aspect, requiring strong relationships with internal teams and external consultants, partners, and field personnel. Methodology:

• The role emphasizes a data-informed approach to design, using program and operational needs as the foundation for conceptualization.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central, focusing on translating design intent into practical, executable plans that respect real-world constraints and construction processes.

• Emphasis on clear communication, proactive risk management, and upholding brand standards throughout the project lifecycle.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Cushman & Wakefield's extensive history and global presence suggest a professional, results-oriented culture that values expertise, collaboration, and client service. The specific role within the design and project management function likely operates within a framework of established best practices and performance metrics common in large real estate service firms.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-to-Senior level within the design and project management domain. It requires significant independent work, team leadership, and strategic input into design execution for complex projects. It's not a direct "operations" role in the RevOps/SalesOps sense but a critical operational function within the design and development lifecycle.

Reporting Structure: The Project Design Manager reports to a regional Design Leader, indicating a clear line of management and mentorship. They, in turn, will lead project teams, which may include internal specialists and external consultants.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the successful execution of client projects, ensuring that design intent is translated effectively into physical spaces that meet brand standards, operational needs, and project timelines. This contributes to client satisfaction, brand consistency, and ultimately, the client's business success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deeper expertise in restaurant/hospitality design, project management methodologies, or specific software tools.

• Leadership: Advancement to senior design leadership roles, managing larger teams or more complex, high-profile projects. Potential for transitioning into broader development or program management roles.

• Skill Development: Opportunities to hone skills in stakeholder management, complex problem-solving, and cross-functional team coordination. Exposure to various project types and client requirements will broaden experience.

• Industry Recognition: Potential to contribute to industry best practices and gain recognition within the commercial real estate and hospitality design sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional operations role, the career path involves significant growth in project management, design strategy, and leadership within the real estate and hospitality sectors. The emphasis on independent work and team leadership suggests a role with substantial responsibility and potential for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "TELECOMMUTE" with a location in Saint Louis, Missouri, but also requires ~20% travel. This suggests a hybrid work model where the employee is expected to work remotely or from a designated office location for a portion of the week, with additional time spent on-site at client locations, construction sites, or for project meetings.

Office Location(s): Saint Louis, Missouri, USA, with potential for travel to various project sites and partner locations across the region or country.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment likely involves a mix of independent design work, virtual collaboration with remote teams (using video conferencing and project management tools), and in-person interactions during site visits and project meetings.

• Access to necessary design software (Bluebeam, AutoCAD, Revit, etc.) and collaboration platforms will be essential.

• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse range of professionals, including designers, architects, construction managers, equipment specialists, and client representatives. Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours (likely 40 hours/week) are expected, but flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines, client needs, or accommodate travel schedules. The role involves managing multiple projects concurrently, which can necessitate adaptive work patterns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "TELECOMMUTE" designation alongside a physical location and travel requirement indicates a hybrid setup. Candidates should be comfortable with remote work tools and protocols, as well as regular travel for project oversight and stakeholder engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call with an HR representative or recruiter to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the regional Design Leader to evaluate technical skills, project management approach, and understanding of design principles within the restaurant/hospitality context. This stage will likely probe into specific project experiences.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from Architecture, Kitchen Design, Equipment, or Construction teams to assess collaboration style and ability to work effectively across disciplines.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, discussing their roles, design process, problem-solving strategies, and project outcomes. This is a critical part of the evaluation.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or the client directly, depending on the project structure, to confirm fit and discuss strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that best demonstrate your skills in restaurant/hospitality design, project management, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Showcase Process, Not Just Product: For each project, clearly outline the problem statement, your specific role and contributions, the design process you followed, key challenges encountered, and how you overcame them. Use diagrams, flowcharts, or narrative descriptions to illustrate your workflow.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, quantify the results of your work. This could include adherence to budget, timeline efficiency, successful implementation of brand standards, or positive feedback from stakeholders.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with specific software (Bluebeam, AutoCAD, Revit, rendering tools) and how you leverage them in your design and project management workflows.

• Practice Your Narrative: Rehearse presenting your projects concisely and compellingly, focusing on your decision-making process and problem-solving abilities. Be ready to answer detailed questions about your contributions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Expect scenario-based questions related to managing conflicting design requirements, resolving construction issues, or communicating difficult design decisions to stakeholders.

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a typical restaurant design project from concept to completion, outlining your key phases and considerations.

• Practice articulating your understanding of brand standards and operational efficiency in the context of design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on assessing practical experience and the ability to translate design concepts into managed projects. A strong portfolio and clear communication of past successes are paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Bluebeam: Essential for document review, markups, and collaboration on architectural drawings and specifications. Proficiency is required.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Includes Word (documentation, reports), Excel (data analysis, tracking), and PowerPoint (presentations, stakeholder communication). Mandatory.

• AutoCAD: Preferred for 2D drafting and design.

• Revit: Preferred for BIM (Building Information Modeling) and 3D design.

• SketchUp: Preferred for conceptual modeling and visualization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a data analytics role, the ability to interpret project data (timelines, budgets, site reports) is crucial. Tools may include project management software dashboards. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in a CRM sense, but project management tools and communication platforms serve as the operational backbone for managing projects and stakeholder interactions. Visualization Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Useful for creating presentation materials, mockups, and refining renderings.

• Enscape / TwinMotion (or similar): Preferred for creating realistic 3D renderings and visualizations to communicate design intent effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Bluebeam and Microsoft Office is non-negotiable. Familiarity with CAD/BIM software (AutoCAD, Revit) and visualization tools is a significant advantage. The company is looking for someone who can effectively use these tools to manage design documentation and communicate design intent.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Design: A commitment to high-quality, brand-aligned design solutions that meet functional and aesthetic requirements.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and delivering on client needs, ensuring satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and constructive feedback among internal teams and external partners.

• Efficiency & Process Discipline: Adherence to established workflows, proactive problem-solving, and a drive to optimize processes for timely and cost-effective project delivery.

• Adaptability: Willingness to embrace change, adapt to evolving standards, and find creative solutions to real-world site constraints.

Collaboration Style:

• The role necessitates a highly collaborative approach, acting as a central hub for design-related information and decision-making.

• Expect a culture of proactive communication, regular check-ins, and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives from architects, engineers, construction professionals, and operational stakeholders.

• A transparent approach to sharing project updates, risks, and decisions is likely valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: Cushman & Wakefield, as a large service provider, likely fosters a culture that balances professional rigor with client-centricity. The Project Design Manager role is a key enabler of this, requiring strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to delivering value through effective design and project execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Brand Standards with Site Constraints: A recurring challenge will be creatively adapting established brand guidelines to unique and often challenging site conditions, requiring innovative problem-solving.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating and aligning the expectations of various internal teams (Architecture, Kitchen, Equipment, Construction) and external consultants, each with their own priorities.

• Navigating Ambiguity and Change: Operating in fast-moving environments where project requirements or site conditions may evolve, demanding flexibility and resilience.

• Communicating Complex Design Intent: Clearly articulating design solutions and rationale to diverse audiences, ensuring buy-in and understanding across technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen Industry Expertise: Gain extensive experience in restaurant and hospitality design, FF&E specification, and construction nuances.

• Expand Project Management Skills: Develop advanced project management techniques for large-scale, multi-disciplinary projects.

• Enhance Leadership Capabilities: Grow in managing design teams, influencing stakeholders, and driving project success.

• Software Proficiency: Master advanced features of design and project management software, potentially including BIM and advanced rendering applications.

• Industry Networking: Build a strong network within the commercial real estate, design, and hospitality sectors through client and partner interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to design and project management roles in dynamic industries. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a path for deep specialization and leadership within Cushman & Wakefield or the broader real estate/hospitality sectors.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance strict brand standards with challenging site constraints for a restaurant project. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, creativity, and decision-making process.)

• "How do you ensure effective communication and alignment across diverse teams like Architecture, Kitchen Design, and Construction on a complex project?" (Highlight collaboration, communication strategies, and conflict resolution.)

• "Walk me through your process for developing conceptual layouts and design intent documentation for a new restaurant environment." (Detail your methodology, tools, and key considerations.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Cushman & Wakefield and our role in the commercial real estate and hospitality sectors?" (Research the company's services, values, and recent projects.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a team that values collaboration, efficiency, and client excellence?" (Align your experience and work style with the company's stated values.)

• "Describe a situation where you had to manage stakeholder expectations that were in conflict. How did you navigate it?" (Demonstrate your ability to manage relationships and find common ground.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the objective, your role, the challenges, your solution/process, and the results.

• Highlight Key Deliverables: Be ready to show examples of test fits, conceptual layouts, design intent drawings, FF&E specifications, and renderings. Explain the purpose and impact of each.

• Demonstrate Process: Use visuals and concise explanations to show how you move from concept to execution, including how you managed reviews and incorporated feedback.

• Focus on Problem-Solving: Emphasize the challenges you faced and the creative, effective solutions you implemented.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific software, construction methods, or design principles relevant to restaurant environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical experience, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage complex projects within the restaurant/hospitality design context. The portfolio is the cornerstone of this preparation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Project Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Cushman & Wakefield careers portal via the provided link.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects, focusing on restaurant/hospitality design and project management. Ensure each case study clearly outlines challenges, your contributions, process, and outcomes.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience in architectural design, project management, space planning, kitchen design, FF&E specification, and proficiency with Bluebeam, AutoCAD, Revit, and rendering tools. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio walkthrough, focusing on concise storytelling, clear articulation of your process, and demonstrating your problem-solving capabilities for each project.

• Research Cushman & Wakefield: Understand the company's services, market position, and values, particularly within the commercial real estate and hospitality sectors. Prepare to discuss how your skills align with their operational approach.

⚠️ 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.