Senior Design Manager, Mixed-Use

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager, Mixed-Use

Company: Simon Property Group

Location: Corporate Indianapolis, IN, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Design Management / Real Estate Development Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-04

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for driving the design vision and execution of complex mixed-use development projects, acting as the central point of coordination between internal stakeholders and external architectural and engineering (AE) consultants.

• The Senior Design Manager will quarterback the design process, translating Simon's business objectives and programmatic requirements into tangible design solutions that align with project budgets and schedules.

• A key focus will be on the transformation of traditional retail spaces into dynamic live/work/play environments, requiring a strong understanding of mixed-use typologies and evolving urban development trends.

• This position demands a blend of creative design sensibility, robust project management capabilities, and a deep understanding of construction principles and Simon's operational standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Design Manager," the responsibilities and required experience (15+ years total, 7-10 in direct multifamily/mixed-use) strongly indicate a senior-level role focused on strategic design leadership within the real estate development operations framework. The "Quarterback" analogy highlights the critical coordination and oversight responsibilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary design sponsor throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept development through final construction, ensuring design integrity and alignment with business goals.

• Effectively communicate project objectives, aesthetic visions, and programmatic requirements to the AE consultant team, while rigorously managing project budgets and timelines.

• Manage the selection, contracting, and performance of AE consultants, including defining scopes of services, processing invoices, and overseeing additional services.

• Conduct thorough reviews of AE consultant design concepts and drawings, providing constructive feedback, design suggestions, and alternative solutions to meet Simon's project objectives and financial targets.

• Develop and manage detailed presentation schedules, scopes, and agendas for design reviews with Senior Management, ensuring all necessary information is prepared and communicated effectively.

• Present project designs to Senior Management, both individually and in group settings, to secure necessary approvals and buy-in for project progression.

• Ensure AE consultants strictly adhere to Simon's established design standards and operational initiatives, maintaining brand consistency and functional excellence across all projects.

• Evaluate retailer lease agreements and Work Letter requirements, proposing and implementing alternative design solutions that satisfy tenant needs while upholding project goals and constraints.

• Actively participate in Value Engineering sessions to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising the overall design vision, functional performance, or aesthetic quality of the project.

• Conduct site visits to review construction progress, inspect mock-ups, and proactively resolve design-related issues that arise during the construction phase, ensuring timely and accurate implementation.

• Provide critical design review and input for the procurement and installation of all furnishings, fixtures, amenities, signage, and graphics to ensure a cohesive and high-quality end product.

• Formulate creative design solutions and provide essential input in meetings and on deliverables that effectively balance landlord work, tenant needs, and overall building constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a high degree of autonomy and decision-making authority in design matters, coupled with rigorous financial and schedule management. The need to balance landlord and tenant requirements within building constraints is a key operational challenge for this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor degree in Architecture (required).

• Master of Architecture (preferred). Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of professional experience in architecture and design.

• 7-10 years of direct, hands-on experience with multi-family residential and mixed-use building types (e.g., office, hotel, parking decks).

• Demonstrated experience with low-rise multi-family residential buildings; prior experience with 5-over-1 and Type 3 construction is preferable. Mid-rise experience is a plus.

• Proven working knowledge of basic building planning principles, including typical building footprints, unit layouts, structural bay sizes, floor-to-floor heights, building core sizes, and egress components for various building types. Required Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to graphically communicate design solutions through both hand sketches and computer-generated 2D/3D drawings.

• Proficiency in SketchUp (required).

• Strong understanding of project management principles and lifecycle management.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex design concepts to diverse stakeholders.

• Proven ability to manage and motivate external consultant teams.

• Deep understanding of construction methods, materials, and value engineering processes.

• Familiarity with architectural design standards and operational initiatives within large-scale real estate development. Preferred Skills:

• Professional Architectural License (preferred).

• Proficiency in CAD software.

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator).

• Experience managing projects involving office, hotel, and parking structures integrated with residential components.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on SketchUp as a required skill, alongside traditional architectural degrees and licenses, suggests a practical, hands-on approach to design visualization and communication within the development process. The extensive experience requirement indicates a strategic leadership role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant mixed-use or multi-family residential projects, detailing your specific role and contributions from concept through completion.

• For each project, clearly articulate the programmatic requirements, design challenges, and how your solutions addressed Simon's business objectives (e.g., tenant appeal, operational efficiency, budget adherence).

• Include visual representations of design solutions, such as concept sketches, 3D models (especially SketchUp examples), architectural drawings, and final built examples.

• Demonstrate a strong understanding of building planning principles and how they were applied to optimize layouts, circulation, and space utilization.

• Highlight instances where you successfully managed AE consultants, navigated complex lease requirements, or participated in value engineering sessions. Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your systematic approach to managing the design process, from initial client brief interpretation to final construction administration.

• Detail your methods for establishing project goals, scopes of services, and timelines for AE consultants.

• Explain your review process for architectural drawings and specifications, including how you ensure compliance with design standards and operational needs.

• Provide examples of how you have documented and communicated design decisions to senior management and project teams.

• Be ready to walk through your process for evaluating and integrating retailer lease and Work Letter requirements into the overall design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirements are geared towards demonstrating practical application of design skills, project management acumen, and the ability to translate business needs into successful real estate development outcomes. A strong emphasis on visual communication tools like SketchUp is expected.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the Senior Design Manager title, 15+ years of experience, specific industry (real estate development), and location (Indianapolis, IN), a competitive salary range would typically fall between $130,000 - $190,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior design and development management roles in major metropolitan areas, considering the specialized nature of mixed-use development.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education, certifications, and conference attendance.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Standard employer-provided coverage.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or other incentive programs. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.

• Occasional extended hours may be required to meet project deadlines, attend critical meetings, or during peak construction phases. Flexibility and commitment to project success are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on aggregated data for senior-level design and development management roles in the US real estate sector, adjusted for location. The specific benefits package should be confirmed directly with Simon Property Group.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Development & Retail Real Estate. Simon Property Group is a global leader in premier shopping, dining, entertainment, and mixed-use destinations. Their extensive portfolio includes iconic properties worldwide, and they are actively involved in transforming traditional retail centers into vibrant, community-focused environments.

Company Size: Simon Property Group is a large, publicly traded company, employing thousands of individuals globally. This scale offers stability, extensive resources, and opportunities for significant impact.

Founded: Simon Property Group was founded in 1960. With decades of experience, the company possesses a deep understanding of the real estate market and a proven track record of successful development and management.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Development or Project Management team, reporting to a Director or VP of Development.

• This team collaborates closely with Leasing, Operations, Finance, Legal, and external consultants (architects, engineers, contractors).

• The structure fosters cross-functional expertise, with a strong emphasis on collaboration to achieve project goals. Methodology:

• Simon emphasizes a data-driven approach to development, market analysis, and tenant mix strategy.

• Design processes are structured to ensure alignment with business objectives, financial feasibility, and long-term asset value.

• A focus on operational efficiency and tenant experience is integrated into the design and development phases.

• Value engineering and risk management are integral parts of the project lifecycle.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Simon Property Group's culture likely emphasizes strategic planning, financial acumen, and a results-oriented approach within the real estate development sector. The transformation into mixed-use environments suggests an innovative and forward-thinking mindset.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the real estate development operations spectrum, focusing specifically on the design and architectural aspects of large-scale mixed-use projects. It requires significant autonomy, strategic thinking, and the ability to lead complex initiatives.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Development or Project Management department, such as a Vice President or Director. They will manage external AE consultant teams and collaborate extensively with various internal departments.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager has a direct and substantial impact on the financial performance and market positioning of Simon's development projects. Effective design management ensures projects are attractive to tenants and consumers, meet budget and schedule targets, and contribute to the long-term value of the real estate portfolio. Their work influences tenant mix, customer experience, and operational efficiency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Director or VP roles within Development, overseeing larger portfolios or multiple project types.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific mixed-use typologies (e.g., large-scale urban regeneration, luxury retail integration) or expand into broader development management responsibilities.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related areas such as Asset Management, Portfolio Strategy, or Strategic Planning within Simon Property Group.

• Industry Influence: Potential to represent Simon at industry conferences or contribute to the development of industry best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned for individuals with a strong technical design background who are looking to leverage their expertise within a strategic development and operations context, with clear pathways for career progression within a major real estate firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a corporate-based role, likely within Simon Property Group's headquarters in Indianapolis. The environment will be professional and office-centric, supporting strategic planning, management, and collaboration.

Office Location(s): Corporate Indianapolis, IN. This location serves as the central hub for corporate functions and strategic decision-making for the company.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a professional office setting equipped with standard business technology and resources.

• Opportunities for collaboration with cross-functional teams (Development, Leasing, Operations) will be frequent, occurring in meeting rooms, informal gathering spaces, and potentially through digital collaboration tools.

• Access to design software and project documentation systems will be essential for day-to-day tasks.

• While primarily office-based, the role necessitates site visits to project locations during various phases of development and construction.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time, with expectations for flexibility to accommodate project demands. This includes attending evening meetings, occasional site visits outside regular hours, and adapting to project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the need for in-person collaboration, client interaction, and direct oversight of project activities, which are critical in real estate development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications and resumes to assess basic qualifications and experience against the job requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior development leader) to delve into your experience with mixed-use projects, design philosophy, project management skills, and understanding of Simon's business model. Be prepared to discuss specific past projects in detail.

• Team/Panel Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders from Development, Leasing, and Operations teams. These interviews will focus on your ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and integrate design solutions with business and operational needs.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present a curated selection of your most relevant mixed-use and multi-family residential projects. This is a critical stage to demonstrate your design vision, technical skills, and project impact.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior executive to assess strategic fit and overall leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 projects that best showcase your mixed-use and multi-family residential design experience, highlighting your direct contributions and problem-solving abilities.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your proposed solution, the process, and the ultimate outcome (e.g., budget adherence, tenant satisfaction, operational improvements). Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Visual Communication: Ensure high-quality visuals – sketches, renderings, 3D models (especially SketchUp), floor plans, and photos of the completed project. Annotate key design decisions and their rationale.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate success (e.g., budget savings achieved through value engineering, increased tenant occupancy rates, positive feedback from operations).

• Focus on "Why": Explain the strategic thinking behind your design choices and how they align with business objectives, market demands, and operational efficiency.

• Address Requirements: Explicitly show how your experience meets the requirements outlined in the job description, particularly regarding mixed-use typologies, multi-family residential, and consultant management.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for design-focused case studies or scenario-based questions related to mixed-use development challenges (e.g., integrating retail with residential, optimizing circulation, responding to budget constraints).

• Practice articulating your design process and decision-making rationale clearly and concisely.

• Familiarize yourself with current trends in mixed-use development, sustainable design, and urban planning.

• Understand Simon's business model and how design contributes to their overall success in the retail and real estate sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily emphasizes practical experience, portfolio demonstration, and the ability to connect design decisions to business outcomes. A strong understanding of mixed-use development and real estate operations is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• SketchUp: Essential for 3D modeling, concept development, and visualization. Proficiency is required.

• CAD Software (e.g., AutoCAD): Likely used for detailed architectural drawings and documentation. Proficiency is a plus.

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator): Valuable for image editing, graphic design, and presentation material creation. Proficiency is a plus.

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint): Standard for documentation, analysis, and presentations. PowerPoint is critical for management reviews.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a data analyst role, an understanding of project financial reports, budget tracking tools, and potentially project management software (e.g., Procore, MS Project) would be beneficial for managing AE consultants and project financials.

• Familiarity with tools used for lease analysis and Work Letter requirement tracking. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in the traditional CRM sense, but familiarity with project management and collaboration platforms used internally by Simon Property Group would be advantageous.

• Understanding how design decisions impact operational workflows and tenant management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on design visualization and communication tools, with an emphasis on practical application in project development. Proficiency in SketchUp is a non-negotiable requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Design & Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative, and functional design solutions that enhance property value and user experience.

• Financial Prudence: A strong focus on budget adherence, value engineering, and maximizing return on investment for all projects.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse teams (internal and external) work effectively towards shared project goals.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new ideas, technologies, and approaches to development, particularly in the evolving landscape of mixed-use environments.

• Operational Integration: Ensuring design decisions are informed by and supportive of long-term property operations and maintenance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires constant interaction with Development, Leasing, Operations, and Finance teams to ensure design aligns with all business objectives.

• Consultant Partnership: Building strong, communicative relationships with AE consultants, providing clear direction while valuing their expertise.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively engaging with senior leadership, presenting designs, and incorporating feedback to achieve consensus and approvals.

• Proactive Problem-Solving: A culture of identifying potential issues early and collaborating to find effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Simon Property Group likely cultivates a professional, results-driven culture that values strategic thinking, strong financial management, and collaborative execution within the real estate development industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Interests: Successfully integrating the diverse needs of retail, residential, office, and hospitality components within a single mixed-use project, while adhering to budget and schedule constraints.

• Evolving Market Demands: Staying ahead of changing consumer preferences and urban development trends to ensure projects remain relevant and successful long-term.

• Managing External Consultants: Effectively directing and holding AE consultants accountable for delivering high-quality work on time and within budget, often with conflicting priorities.

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Understanding and adhering to various zoning, building codes, and permitting requirements across different jurisdictions.

• Communicating Vision to Senior Leadership: Articulating complex design concepts and their business implications clearly to non-design stakeholders to secure buy-in and approvals.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Mixed-Use Design: Opportunities to work on increasingly complex and large-scale mixed-use developments, expanding expertise in urban planning and placemaking.

• Development Strategy: Gain deeper insights into the financial modeling, market analysis, and strategic planning that drive real estate development decisions.

• Leadership Skills: Develop advanced project leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills through managing high-impact projects and teams.

• Industry Trends: Stay current with emerging trends in sustainable design, smart building technology, and the future of retail and urban living.

• Professional Certifications: Potential for support in obtaining advanced certifications or licenses relevant to development and design.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges due to the complexity of mixed-use development, but also offers substantial growth opportunities for seasoned design professionals looking to impact large-scale projects and advance within the real estate industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to quarterbacking the design process for a large-scale mixed-use development, from initial concept through construction." (Focus on communication, coordination, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure that design solutions align with Simon's business objectives, including profitability, tenant appeal, and operational efficiency?" (Highlight your understanding of the business model and ROI.)

• "Walk me through a challenging project where you had to balance conflicting stakeholder requirements (e.g., tenant lease vs. building structure, budget vs. aesthetic vision). What was your strategy and the outcome?" (Use the STAR method and emphasize your decision-making process.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Simon Property Group's strategy for transforming retail centers into mixed-use destinations, and how does your experience align with this vision?" (Research their recent projects and statements.)

• "How do you approach ensuring that external AE consultants adhere to a client's design standards and operational requirements?" (Discuss your management and review processes.)

• "Describe a time you had to present a design concept to senior management that faced significant pushback. How did you handle it, and what was the result?" (Focus on your communication, persuasion, and adaptability.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Theme Your Presentation: Organize your portfolio around key themes such as mixed-use integration, residential design excellence, consultant management, or value engineering successes.

• Storytelling: For each project, craft a compelling narrative that highlights the challenges, your unique contributions, and the measurable impact of your design decisions.

• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality images, clear diagrams, and concise text. Ensure your SketchUp models are well-presented and demonstrate your spatial understanding.

• Focus on Operations: Be ready to discuss how your design choices impact building operations, maintenance, tenant experience, and overall property management.

• Interactive Q&A: Anticipate questions about your process, design rationale, and how you'd handle specific hypothetical scenarios relevant to Simon's projects. Practice answering concisely and confidently.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative design talent, robust project management skills, and a strong business acumen tailored to the real estate development sector, with a particular emphasis on mixed-use projects and Simon's strategic direction.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link on the Simon Property Group careers page.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your extensive experience (15+ years total, 7-10 in mixed-use/multi-family), specific project types (low-rise multi-family, 5-over-1, Type 3 construction, office, hotel, parking decks), and proficiency in SketchUp and other relevant design software. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most impactful mixed-use and multi-family residential projects. Ensure it visually demonstrates your design skills, project management approach, and understanding of business objectives. Be ready to present it effectively.

• Research Simon Property Group: Understand their current development initiatives, their strategy for mixed-use transformations, and their market position. Familiarize yourself with their portfolio and recent news.

• Practice Your Narrative: Rehearse your ability to articulate your design philosophy, project management methodology, and problem-solving skills, particularly in the context of mixed-use development and Simon's operational priorities.

⚠️ 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.