Sr. Project Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. Project Design Manager

Company: Cushman & Wakefield

Location: Saint Louis, Missouri, USA

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations (Design & Construction Project Management)

Date Posted: 2026-06-08

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads the comprehensive design execution for retail projects, acting as the central liaison for all design and construction-related communications.

• Manages complex, multi-stakeholder prototype workflows from initial concept through final construction, ensuring adherence to business objectives and client expectations.

• Leverages mastery of architectural design principles, Revit software, and robust project management methodologies to deliver high-quality retail solutions.

• Drives client engagement by building trusted partnerships and translating business needs into functional, innovative retail environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Sr. Project Design Manager," has significant operational components related to process management, stakeholder coordination, and ensuring the efficient and consistent execution of design prototypes across a portfolio. It bridges creative design with operational rigor, making it highly relevant to GTM and operations professionals focused on physical space strategy and execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary design point of contact for the client, fostering strong, long-term partnerships across retail design and construction teams.

• Clearly and confidently communicate design concepts, decisions, and recommendations to a diverse range of stakeholders, including senior leadership.

• Translate client business requirements into effective, innovative retail solutions, including preliminary test fits and strategic space planning recommendations.

• Manage and continuously enhance client design standards, proactively proposing updates that align with evolving retail trends and industry best practices.

• Prepare and facilitate Real Estate Site Approval presentations, presenting optimal design options with clear analyses of pros and cons to internal leadership, operations teams, regulatory bodies, and landlords.

• Oversee all stages of the retail design process, ensuring all deliverables are safe, functional, code-compliant, and aesthetically aligned with established client prototypes.

• Review and analyze site survey and due diligence information to inform preliminary design development.

• Coordinate with architectural consultants to develop preliminary planning submittal packages for city review and approval.

• Partner effectively with Construction and Real Estate teams to manage the regional store development pipeline.

• Build and maintain strong program alignment with the Development Manager.

• Review and approve preliminary space plans and design concepts against International Building Code (IBC), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and relevant local code requirements.

• Implement and maintain rigorous quality control measures across all design documentation and project deliverables.

• Proactively explore and advocate for innovative retail design solutions, fostering creative thinking within the project team.

• Act as a primary communicator between the internal client design group, approved external architects, construction managers, and consultants.

• Proactively manage and resolve on-site construction issues that impact design, with a thorough understanding of downstream consequences.

• Support vendor relationships and contribute strategically to procurement processes as required.

• Create, implement, and maintain Revit templates, families, and design assets to ensure consistent and efficient retail project delivery.

• Champion the adoption of tools and technologies that optimize design workflows and enhance operational efficiency.

• Build and maintain program infrastructure, including SharePoint sites, Smartsheet project trackers and dashboards, file structure guidelines, construction document review checklists, retail design management process flowcharts, and design RACI matrices.

• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and data to demonstrate a drive for results and continuous improvement.

• Stay current on emerging retail design software, technologies, and relevant industry trends to inform best practices.

• Develop and manage project timelines for a portfolio of retail projects, accommodating varying scopes and complexities.

• Ensure all design processes and standards are clearly documented, effectively communicated to stakeholders, and consistently implemented.

• Partner cross-functionally with project management, facilities, construction, and other internal teams to deliver integrated retail solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize process management, stakeholder alignment, and quality control, which are core to revenue and sales operations. The role requires managing a "pipeline" of projects and ensuring consistent "prototype workflows," mirroring operational objectives of scalability and standardization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Interior Design from a CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation) or NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board) accredited institution. Experience:

• 10+ years of professional design experience with a clear track record of progression into senior design management roles.

• 5+ years of hands-on Revit experience in a professional design or architectural setting.

• 5+ years of experience managing complex design and construction projects specifically within the retail environment. Required Skills:

• Strong proficiency in architectural drawing interpretation, space planning principles, and retail design concept development.

• Working knowledge of International Building Code (IBC) and ADA requirements, with the ability to critically review drawings for code compliance.

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), SharePoint, and Smartsheet.

• Understanding of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems and their integration into architectural design.

• Exceptional problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to think critically and provide solutions under pressure.

• Proven ability to build and maintain trusted, collaborative relationships with internal teams, external partners, and clients.

• Meticulous attention to detail and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes on time and within scope. Preferred Skills:

• Licensure as a Registered Architect (RA) or Certified Interior Designer (NCIDQ) is preferred but not strictly required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Revit, project management, and specific code knowledge (IBC, ADA) indicates a need for technically proficient individuals who can manage complex workflows. The preference for RA/NCIDQ suggests a desire for candidates with formal architectural training, which translates to a structured approach to design and problem-solving relevant to operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex retail design and construction projects, detailing the scope, challenges, and your specific role in their successful execution.

• Include examples of architectural drawings, space plans, and design concepts that demonstrate your proficiency in translating client needs into functional retail spaces.

• Highlight experience in managing prototype workflows, illustrating how you ensured consistency and quality across multiple implementations.

• Demonstrate your ability to integrate and manage various stakeholders (client teams, architects, construction managers, consultants) within a project lifecycle.

• Provide evidence of your understanding and application of building codes (IBC, ADA) and design standards in your project work. Process Documentation:

• Examples of process flowcharts or RACI matrices used to define roles and responsibilities in design and construction projects.

• Documentation of how you have created, implemented, or maintained design standards, Revit templates, or project management tools (e.g., SharePoint, Smartsheet).

• Case studies detailing how you have managed design execution, quality control, and problem-solving for on-site construction issues.

• Evidence of how you have tracked project data or KPIs to demonstrate drives for results and continuous improvement in design delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is critical for operations roles. A strong portfolio demonstrating process management, stakeholder coordination within a structured framework (like RACI), and the use of project management tools is essential. The ability to show how you've standardized and improved processes for design execution will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $85,000 - $100,000 per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Vision insurance plan.

• Dental insurance plan.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare or dependent care.

• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for eligible medical expenses.

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

• Life insurance coverage.

• Disability insurance (short-term and long-term).

• Paid time away from work, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Unpaid time away from work options.

Working Hours: Standard 40 hours per week, with potential for occasional overtime to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the Saint Louis, Missouri area for a Senior Project Design Manager role. This estimate aligns with industry benchmarks for this experience level and geographic location, considering the blend of design, project management, and operational oversight required. Cushman & Wakefield's benefits package is typical for a large, established real estate services firm, offering a robust suite of health, financial, and time-off benefits.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Commercial Real Estate Services and Investment Management. Cushman & Wakefield operates globally, providing a wide range of services including property leasing, sales, facilities management, and project management for corporate clients. This industry context means a strong focus on client relationships, service delivery, and a data-driven approach to real estate solutions.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (as indicated by typical Cushman & Wakefield operations). This implies structured processes, established hierarchies, and opportunities for specialization and cross-functional collaboration within a global framework. For operations professionals, this means access to resources, established best practices, and potential for career advancement across various business units.

Founded: 1760. With a long history, Cushman & Wakefield has a deep understanding of market dynamics and a legacy of client service, which likely translates into a culture that values experience, stability, and continuous adaptation to market changes.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: The design and construction team likely comprises specialized roles including Project Managers, Design Managers, Architects, Interior Designers, and support staff, working collaboratively on client portfolios.

• Operations Team Aspect 2: Reporting structure will likely involve a clear hierarchy, with this Sr. Project Design Manager reporting to a Director or VP of Design & Construction, and potentially managing junior designers or coordinating with multiple project teams.

• Operations Team Aspect 3: Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close partnerships with Real Estate Advisory, Facilities Management, Project Management Office (PMO), and client-side business units to ensure holistic project delivery.

Methodology:

• Operations Process 1: Data analysis is crucial for informing design decisions, assessing site feasibility, and tracking project performance against budgets and timelines.

• Operations Process 2: Workflow planning and optimization are key, particularly in managing prototype standardization and ensuring efficient execution across a high volume of retail projects.

• Operations Process 3: Automation and efficiency practices are likely encouraged, especially through the use of Revit, Smartsheet, and SharePoint for streamlining design, communication, and project tracking.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Cushman & Wakefield's extensive history and global presence suggest a culture that values professionalism, client-centricity, and operational excellence. The company's role in commercial real estate implies a need for efficient, scalable solutions, making this operations-focused design management role integral to their service delivery model.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior-level individual contributor within the design and construction operations. It demands significant autonomy, expert-level technical skills (Revit, architectural principles), and strong project management capabilities. The scope involves managing complex projects and portfolios, influencing client relationships, and contributing to the refinement of design standards and processes.

Reporting Structure: The Sr. Project Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President of Design & Construction. They will collaborate closely with Project Managers, Development Managers, and various client-side operational and business unit leaders. This structure allows for strategic oversight while requiring hands-on execution and problem-solving.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the client's brand representation and operational efficiency in their retail spaces. By ensuring consistent, high-quality design execution, compliant with all regulations and aligned with business objectives, the Sr. Project Design Manager contributes to the client's success, customer experience, and overall return on investment for their physical footprint. Effective project delivery also influences the efficiency of construction and facility management operations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in retail design trends, advanced Revit functionalities, and strategic space planning through specialized training and project exposure.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into a leadership role, managing a team of designers or taking on larger, more complex client portfolios. This could involve transitioning to a Director-level position or specializing in a specific client sector.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Involvement in developing and implementing new design standards, workflow optimizations, or technology adoption strategies that enhance operational efficiency and client satisfaction across the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within operations management, particularly for those interested in the intersection of real estate, design, and operational efficiency. The emphasis on process, stakeholder management, and client relations provides a strong foundation for advancement into broader operational or strategic leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. This indicates a blend of remote work flexibility and in-office collaboration. The in-office component is crucial for team meetings, client presentations, and hands-on work with design tools and collaborative project discussions.

Office Location(s): Saint Louis, Missouri, USA. This specific location serves as the primary base for this role, offering access to local market knowledge and client interactions within the region.

Workspace Context:

• Workspace Aspect 1: The hybrid model supports a balance between focused individual work (potentially remote) and collaborative team sessions in the office. This allows for efficient project planning, design reviews, and brainstorming sessions.

• Workspace Aspect 2: Access to industry-standard design software (Revit, Adobe Creative Suite) and project management platforms (SharePoint, Smartsheet) will be essential. The office environment will likely be equipped with necessary technology to support these tools.

• Workspace Aspect 3: Opportunities for direct interaction with design teams, project managers, and client representatives will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and collaborative work environment essential for complex project execution.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the flexibility inherent in a hybrid model. However, project deadlines and client needs may require occasional adjustments to this schedule, typical for senior project management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment is a key aspect. For operations professionals, understanding the balance between remote productivity and in-office collaboration is crucial for managing workflows and team dynamics effectively. The role requires self-discipline and strong communication skills to succeed in this blended model.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Process Step 1: Initial screening by HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, experience alignment, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your experience with retail design, project management, and your understanding of operations within a corporate real estate context.

• Process Step 2: Technical interview with hiring manager and/or senior team members. This will likely involve in-depth questions about your Revit proficiency, architectural design principles, code compliance knowledge (IBC, ADA), and project management methodologies. Expect scenario-based questions related to design challenges and stakeholder management.

• Process Step 3: Portfolio Review and Presentation. You will be asked to present your portfolio, highlighting specific projects that demonstrate your expertise in retail design execution, prototype management, and cross-functional collaboration. Focus on the operational aspects of your projects – how you managed processes, solved problems, and delivered results.

• Process Step 4: Final interview, potentially with a senior leader, to assess overall fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential within the organization. This may also involve a discussion about your understanding of the commercial real estate industry and Cushman & Wakefield's role within it.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Portfolio Tip 1: Curate your portfolio to specifically showcase retail design projects where you managed the full lifecycle from concept to construction. Emphasize projects that involved prototype standardization or complex multi-stakeholder workflows.

• Portfolio Tip 2: For each project, structure your narrative to highlight the operational challenges, your strategic approach to process management and problem-solving, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., time saved, cost efficiencies, quality improvements, client satisfaction).

• Portfolio Tip 3: Be prepared to discuss your experience with tools like Revit, Smartsheet, and SharePoint, demonstrating how you leverage technology to enhance efficiency and collaboration in design and construction operations.

• Portfolio Tip 4: Clearly articulate your role and responsibilities in each project, especially your interactions with clients, architects, and construction teams. Show how you translated business needs into design solutions and managed stakeholder expectations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Challenge Preparation 1: Anticipate potential case studies or design challenges that require you to develop a preliminary space plan, identify code compliance issues, or propose a solution to a common retail construction problem.

• Challenge Preparation 2: Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, focusing on logical steps, consideration of constraints, and how you would manage resources and stakeholders to achieve the desired outcome.

• Challenge Preparation 3: Be ready to discuss how you would maintain design standards and ensure quality control across a portfolio of projects, demonstrating your understanding of operational consistency and scalability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential case studies indicates a strong focus on practical application and process-oriented problem-solving, which are hallmarks of operations roles. Candidates should prepare to discuss not just the "what" but the "how" of their project execution.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for architectural design, modeling, documentation, and creating design assets (templates, families). Proficiency in creating and managing complex Revit projects is paramount.

• MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint): Standard for documentation, reporting, presentations, and data analysis. Excel will be critical for tracking project data and budget analysis.

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign): Used for creating high-quality visual presentations, concept boards, and refining design deliverables.

• SharePoint: Key for program infrastructure, document management, collaboration, and maintaining organized project files and information repositories.

• Smartsheet: Critical for project tracking, timeline management, dashboard creation, and demonstrating drive for results through data visualization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Smartsheet Dashboards: For real-time project status tracking, KPI monitoring, and reporting on design execution progress.

• Excel: For detailed data analysis, budget tracking, and generating ad-hoc reports on project performance.

• Revit Data Extraction: Potential for extracting data from models for analysis related to space utilization or material quantities.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a traditional CRM role, understanding client relationship management principles is key.

• SharePoint/Smartsheet Automation: Utilizing workflows within these platforms to automate task assignments, notifications, and approval processes.

• Potential for Integration Tools: Depending on the broader Cushman & Wakefield tech stack, familiarity with tools that integrate design software with project management or financial systems could be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack highlights a blend of specialized design software (Revit) and robust project management/collaboration tools (SharePoint, Smartsheet). Operations professionals will find this familiar territory, emphasizing the need for proficiency in data management, workflow automation, and reporting to drive efficiency and accountability.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A primary focus on understanding and exceeding client expectations in all aspects of design and project delivery, fostering long-term partnerships.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality, safe, functional, and aesthetically aligned design solutions, with rigorous quality control measures in place.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Valuing strong teamwork and cross-functional partnerships to achieve integrated and successful project outcomes.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Encouraging creative thinking and staying current with evolving retail trends and technologies to provide forward-thinking solutions.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data and analytics to inform design choices, track performance, and demonstrate the impact of design and construction operations.

• Process Orientation: Adhering to and improving documented processes and standards to ensure consistency, efficiency, and scalability in project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where close partnerships with Project Management, Real Estate Advisory, Facilities Management, and client business units are essential for holistic project success.

• Process Review Culture: A willingness to engage in constructive feedback loops regarding design processes, construction issues, and project workflows to identify areas for improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing Practices: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative solutions across project teams and within the broader design and construction department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on client-centricity, quality, and collaboration aligns with the core operational values of delivering consistent, high-value services. The "process orientation" is particularly relevant for operations candidates looking to contribute to efficiency and standardization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Prototypes/Clients: Managing diverse client needs and potentially different prototype standards simultaneously requires strong organizational skills and the ability to context-switch effectively.

• Navigating Complex Stakeholder Landscapes: Effectively managing expectations and communication across internal teams, external consultants, regulatory bodies, and client leadership can be demanding.

• Resolving On-Site Construction Issues: Proactively identifying and resolving design-related construction problems requires quick thinking, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of downstream impacts.

• Staying Ahead of Retail Trends & Technology: The fast-paced nature of retail design necessitates continuous learning to incorporate emerging trends and leverage new technologies for design and project management efficiency.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in retail design, project management software, and process optimization through internal training, workshops, and exposure to diverse projects.

• Industry Certifications: Support for pursuing relevant certifications such as LEED (if applicable to sustainable design aspects), PMP (Project Management Professional), or advanced Revit certifications.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Access to senior leadership for mentorship, guidance on career progression, and potential opportunities to lead teams or strategic initiatives within the design and construction operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are common in operations roles that require managing complexity, multiple stakeholders, and a dynamic environment. The growth opportunities highlight pathways for developing expertise in both technical operations and leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex retail design project where you managed multiple stakeholders and prototype workflows. What were the key operational challenges, and how did you ensure consistent execution and quality?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and results).

• "How do you approach translating a client's business objectives into functional and innovative retail space plans? Provide an example." (Highlight strategic thinking and client engagement).

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing architectural drawings for IBC and ADA compliance. What are the critical elements you look for?" (Demonstrate technical acumen and attention to detail). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Cushman & Wakefield's role in commercial real estate and its approach to client service?" (Show research and understanding of the business context).

• "How do you envision contributing to a hybrid work environment and fostering collaboration within a distributed team?" (Address adaptability and teamwork).

• "How do you measure the success of your design and construction projects, beyond budget and schedule? What metrics do you track to demonstrate operational impact?" (Focus on data-driven results and ROI). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Presentation Strategy 1: Structure your portfolio around 2-3 key projects. For each, clearly define the client's business objectives, your specific role, the design and operational challenges, your problem-solving methodology, and the quantifiable outcomes. Use visual aids effectively.

• Presentation Strategy 2: Be prepared to discuss the operational aspects of your projects in detail – how you managed timelines, resources, documentation, and stakeholder communication using tools like Smartsheet and SharePoint.

• Presentation Strategy 3: Engage your interviewers by asking clarifying questions and demonstrating your thought process. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with Cushman & Wakefield's values and operational approach to client service.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design skills but also strong operational capabilities: process management, stakeholder coordination, problem-solving under pressure, and data-driven results. The portfolio is your primary tool for showcasing these operational strengths.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-focused design management position:

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

• Concrete Preparation Step 1: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in project management, process optimization, stakeholder engagement, and the use of design and project management technologies (Revit, Smartsheet, SharePoint). Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Concrete Preparation Step 2: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature retail design projects that demonstrate your ability to manage complex workflows, ensure code compliance, and deliver consistent results across multiple implementations. Focus on projects showcasing your operational contributions.

• Concrete Preparation Step 3: Prepare to articulate your design and project management methodologies, specifically how you ensure efficiency, quality, and stakeholder alignment. Practice presenting your portfolio projects clearly and concisely, emphasizing operational impact.

• Concrete Preparation Step 4: Research Cushman & Wakefield's services, client base, and recent projects in the retail sector. Understand their approach to design and construction management and how your skills can contribute to their operational success and client satisfaction.

⚠️ 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.