Workplace Design Strategist - Expression of Interest

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Workplace Design Strategist - Expression of Interest

Company: Hassell Services

Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Strategy & Workplace Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-15

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on strategic planning and design for evolving workplace environments, blending insights from people, culture, and space.

• It involves dissecting organizational needs to inform spatial recommendations that enhance culture, performance, collaboration, and wellbeing.

• The position requires a strong ability to translate complex research and data into actionable design strategies for diverse project types.

• It offers an opportunity to influence projects at the critical intersection of workplace dynamics, strategic planning, design execution, and organizational change management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Expression of Interest" nature of this posting suggests Hassell is proactively building a talent pipeline for future roles in Workplace Design Strategy. Candidates should highlight their strategic thinking and adaptability. The role is positioned within a multidisciplinary design practice, indicating a need for strong collaboration with architects and interior designers.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead or provide significant support for workplace and design strategy projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives and organizational goals.

• Facilitate engaging workshops, visioning sessions, and comprehensive stakeholder engagement processes to gather critical insights and drive consensus.

• Develop robust workplace insights, detailed briefing strategies, and tailored spatial recommendations that directly address client needs.

• Effectively translate complex research findings and quantitative/qualitative data into clear, practical, and compelling outcomes for clients and design teams.

• Collaborate closely with architecture and interior design teams throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring strategic intent is maintained through to delivery.

• Support the development and nurturing of client relationships, contributing to proposal submissions and business development efforts.

• Mentor emerging strategists within the team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and contributing to the growth of the practice's strategic capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Responsibilities are structured to reflect a blend of leadership potential and hands-on execution, suitable for a mid-to-senior level strategist. The emphasis on "leading or supporting" indicates flexibility in project scope based on candidate experience. The inclusion of business development and client relationship management points to a client-facing aspect of the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong academic background in fields such as Architecture, Interior Design, Urban Planning, Organisational Psychology, Business Strategy, or a related discipline is highly advantageous. Possessing a relevant postgraduate qualification would be a significant plus.

Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in workplace strategy, design strategy, spatial consulting, or a closely related field is required. Experience within a multidisciplinary design practice, consultancy, or a client-side advisory role is essential.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in workplace strategy, design strategy, or spatial consulting.

• Deep understanding of current and emerging workplace trends, the future of work, and organizational change dynamics.

• Demonstrated expertise in research methodologies, effective facilitation techniques, and comprehensive stakeholder engagement.

• Experience collaborating effectively with architecture and interior design teams on project delivery.

• Strong ability to synthesize and connect people, culture, and business needs with impactful spatial outcomes.

• Confidence and proficiency in presenting complex ideas and influencing diverse client groups.

• A curious, empathetic, and collaborative mindset essential for human-centred design.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with change management frameworks and implementation strategies.

• Proficiency in data analytics and visualization tools to support strategic recommendations.

• Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.

• Experience in business development, proposal writing, and client acquisition.

• Knowledge of sustainability principles and their application in workplace design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of strategic foresight, analytical rigor, and interpersonal skills, crucial for a role that interfaces between organizational needs and physical space. The explicit requirement for "commercial workplace projects" highlights a key area of focus for Hassell.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 comprehensive case studies demonstrating successful workplace strategy or design strategy projects from inception to completion.

• Each case study should clearly articulate the client's challenge, the strategic approach taken, the methodologies employed (e.g., research, workshops), and the implemented spatial solutions.

• Quantify the impact of your strategies where possible, focusing on metrics related to employee experience, productivity, collaboration, wellbeing, or organizational efficiency.

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of how your strategic recommendations informed and integrated with architectural and interior design processes.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing comprehensive workplace briefing documents that translate user needs and organizational goals into actionable design parameters.

• Examples of process maps or workflow diagrams illustrating how insights were gathered, analyzed, and translated into design solutions.

• Documentation of methodologies used for user research, post-occupancy evaluations, or performance analysis of workplace environments.

• Demonstrated ability to document and communicate complex strategic processes in a clear and accessible manner for both internal teams and external clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this "Expression of Interest" role, as it serves as the primary evidence of a candidate's strategic capabilities and practical application. The focus should be on demonstrating a structured approach to strategy development and its tangible impact on workplace environments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for experienced Workplace Design Strategists in Sydney with 5-10 years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $120,000 - $170,000, depending on the specific level of seniority and demonstrated expertise.

Benefits:

• A dynamic and inclusive work environment fostering collaboration and innovation.

• Comprehensive professional development and growth opportunities, including training and potential for further specialization.

• A balanced work-life schedule with a commitment to reasonable working hours, promoting employee well-being.

• Generous 16 weeks of paid parental leave for both primary and secondary carers, supporting work-life integration.

• A progressive flexible work policy enabling hybrid work, location flexibility, and work pattern flexibility to accommodate diverse needs.

• Opportunities for inter-studio transfer, allowing for broader experience and career exploration within Hassell's global network.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, typically around 40 hours per week. The company promotes a balanced work-life schedule, suggesting flexibility within these hours where project demands and team collaboration allow.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on data for similar roles in Sydney, Australia, considering the specified experience level and the nature of a multidisciplinary design firm. The benefits package highlights Hassell's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth, which are key differentiators for attracting talent in the design and strategy sectors.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Interior Design, and Urban Design. Hassell operates at the forefront of creating thoughtful, human-centred environments that address contemporary living, working, and connecting.

Company Size: Large, with eight design studios worldwide and a significant number of employees globally. This size allows for substantial project capacity, diverse expertise, and global reach.

Founded: Hassell was founded in 1938, bringing a rich history and extensive experience in design innovation and client service. This longevity speaks to a stable and enduring organizational culture.

Team Structure:

• The Workplace Design Strategy team is part of a larger, multidisciplinary practice. It likely comprises specialists in strategy, research, and consulting, working in close partnership with architecture and interior design teams.

• Reporting structures are likely to be matrixed, with individuals reporting to a Practice Leader or Director of Strategy, while also being assigned to specific project teams led by Project Directors or Principals.

Methodology:

• Hassell emphasizes connecting insight and creativity, employing a data-driven yet human-centred approach to design. This involves rigorous research and analysis to inform strategic decisions.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are critical for managing complex, multidisciplinary projects, ensuring seamless integration from concept to delivery.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated into project management and design processes to enhance delivery and client value.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Hassell's global presence and long history suggest a culture that values expertise, collaboration, and innovation. The multidisciplinary nature means the Workplace Design Strategist will be part of a dynamic ecosystem of design professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, typically referred to as a Strategist or Senior Strategist. It requires a solid foundation of experience and the ability to operate with a degree of autonomy, lead project streams, and mentor junior team members. The scope involves contributing significantly to client strategy and influencing design outcomes.

Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a Practice Leader for Workplace Strategy or a Director of Strategy. Within project teams, the strategist will collaborate with Project Directors, Design Leads, and other discipline leaders. This structure ensures both strategic oversight and project-specific integration.

Operations Impact: The strategist's impact is measured by their ability to shape environments that enhance organizational performance, employee wellbeing, and culture. This includes influencing client decisions, driving successful project outcomes, and contributing to Hassell's reputation for insightful, human-centred design.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of workplace strategy, such as future of work trends, sustainability in design, or advanced user research methodologies.

• Leadership Development: Progression towards leading larger, more complex strategy projects, managing teams of strategists, and developing client relationships independently.

• Specialization: Potential to specialize within particular sectors (e.g., commercial, education, civic) or focus on emerging areas like digital integration in workplaces or adaptive reuse strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Expression of Interest" implies that candidates with a strong track record and clear growth potential will be highly valued. Hassell's global network offers unique opportunities for international experience and career diversification.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hassell is known for its design-led studios, which are likely to be contemporary, collaborative, and aesthetically inspiring spaces that reflect their design philosophy. These are not typical corporate offices but environments designed to foster creativity and interaction.

Office Location(s): The primary location for this role is Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Hassell has multiple studios globally, which may offer opportunities for cross-studio collaboration or future transfers.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to encourage interaction and collaboration, with meeting rooms, breakout areas, and flexible workstations.

• Access to advanced design software, research databases, and presentation technologies is expected, supporting the strategic and analytical demands of the role.

• Frequent interaction with a diverse range of design professionals, clients, and stakeholders is a key feature, fostering a dynamic and stimulating work environment.

Work Schedule: A hybrid work model is in place, allowing for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work. This flexibility is designed to support work-life integration and employee well-being, while ensuring essential in-person teamwork for projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at Hassell is expected to be creative, collaborative, and client-focused, mirroring the company's design ethos. The hybrid model is a key aspect, requiring individuals to manage their time effectively for both independent work and team-based activities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess alignment with the role's requirements and Hassell's design philosophy.

• First Interview: Typically with a senior member of the Workplace Strategy team or a Practice Leader. Focus on strategic thinking, experience, and cultural fit. Expect questions about your approach to workplace challenges and your understanding of trends.

• Portfolio Presentation & Workshop: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their portfolio work. This may be followed by a design charrette or a problem-solving exercise related to a hypothetical workplace strategy challenge.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a Director or Principal, focusing on leadership potential, client management skills, and strategic vision for the practice.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 high-impact projects that best demonstrate your expertise in workplace strategy, design strategy, and spatial consulting.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your unique strategic approach, the methodologies used, the challenges overcome, and the tangible outcomes achieved. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Impact: Quantify results wherever possible (e.g., improved collaboration, increased employee satisfaction, enhanced performance). If quantitative data is unavailable, focus on qualitative impacts and client testimonials.

• Demonstrate Process: Show your thought process, from initial research and stakeholder engagement to strategy development and integration with design.

• Tailor to Hassell: Research Hassell's portfolio and values. Frame your experience and approach to align with their human-centred, insight-driven methodology.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Hassell's Work: Familiarize yourself with their recent workplace projects and their stated design principles.

• Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions: Think about how you would approach common workplace challenges (e.g., designing for hybrid work, fostering inclusivity, improving employee wellbeing).

• Practice Facilitation: Be ready to demonstrate your ability to lead discussions, gather input, and synthesize ideas, as if facilitating a workshop.

• Articulate Strategy: Be prepared to clearly explain your strategic thinking, its rationale, and how it translates into actionable spatial recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Expression of Interest" means the interview process may be more fluid. However, a robust portfolio and the ability to articulate a strategic process are paramount. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their value proposition clearly and concisely.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Visualization Software: Proficiency in tools like Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) for creating presentations and visual assets. Familiarity with architectural/design software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp) is beneficial for understanding design outputs, though not necessarily for direct use.

• Presentation & Collaboration Tools: Advanced skills in PowerPoint, Keynote, Google Slides for impactful client presentations. Proficiency in collaborative platforms like Miro, Mural, or similar for virtual workshops and ideation.

• Research & Analytics Tools: Familiarity with tools for data analysis (e.g., Excel, Tableau, Power BI) to interpret user research, occupancy data, and performance metrics. Experience with survey platforms (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics) for gathering quantitative feedback.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Synthesis: Ability to synthesize data from various sources – user surveys, occupancy sensors, employee feedback, business metrics – into cohesive insights.

• Reporting Software: Experience using reporting tools to create clear, concise, and visually appealing reports that communicate strategic recommendations and project outcomes to diverse audiences.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While not a primary focus, understanding how CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) track client interactions and project pipelines can be advantageous for business development aspects.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com) to manage tasks, timelines, and team workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools used for strategic analysis, communication, and visualization, rather than highly technical design software. The ability to leverage data and present findings effectively is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Human-Centred Design: A core value, emphasizing that all design decisions should prioritize the needs, experiences, and well-being of people.

• Insight-Driven: A commitment to grounding design strategies in robust research, data analysis, and a deep understanding of client contexts.

• Collaboration: A strong belief in the power of multidisciplinary teamwork, open communication, and shared expertise to achieve the best outcomes.

• Innovation: A continuous drive to explore new ideas, challenge conventions, and develop forward-thinking solutions for the built environment.

• Sustainability: Integration of environmental and social responsibility into design practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Work is structured around integrated, multidisciplinary project teams where close collaboration between strategists, architects, interior designers, and landscape architects is the norm.

• Open Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback and open dialogue to refine ideas and improve project outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Active promotion of knowledge sharing through internal presentations, workshops, and cross-studio initiatives to disseminate best practices and learnings.

📝 Enhancement Note: Hassell's culture appears to be highly collaborative, client-focused, and driven by a passion for design excellence and human-centred outcomes. Candidates should demonstrate alignment with these values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the diverse and often competing needs of various client stakeholders, from executive leadership to end-users.

• Translating Ambition into Reality: Bridging the gap between aspirational strategic goals and practical, deliverable design solutions within project constraints.

• Adapting to Rapid Workplace Evolution: Staying ahead of evolving trends in work, technology, and employee expectations to ensure future-proof workplace designs.

• Demonstrating Tangible ROI: Clearly articulating and proving the return on investment for strategic workplace design initiatives to clients.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to internal and external training programs focused on advanced workplace strategy techniques, organizational psychology, change management, and sustainability in design.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to attend industry conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay abreast of the latest trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Structured mentorship programs and opportunities to take on leadership roles within projects and teams, fostering career progression towards senior strategic or management positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to strategic consulting within the design industry. Hassell's commitment to growth opportunities suggests a supportive environment for professionals looking to advance their careers and expertise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex workplace strategy project you led. What was the client's core challenge, how did you approach it, and what were the key outcomes?" (Focus on process, methodology, and impact.)

• "How do you stay current with trends in the 'future of work' and how do you translate these into actionable insights for clients?" (Demonstrate research skills and strategic application.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you admire about Hassell's work, particularly in the workplace sector?" (Research Hassell's projects and values.)

• "How do you approach collaboration within a multidisciplinary design team? Describe a time you successfully partnered with architects or interior designers." (Highlight teamwork and cross-functional communication.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, use a clear "Problem -> Approach -> Solution -> Outcome" structure.

• Highlight Your Role: Be specific about your contributions, especially in strategy development, research, and stakeholder engagement.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images, diagrams, and charts to illustrate your points and make your presentation engaging.

• Quantify Impact: Present metrics and evidence of success clearly. If exact figures are unavailable, discuss qualitative improvements and client feedback.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your methodologies, challenges faced, and alternative approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their strategic thinking, demonstrate a deep understanding of workplace dynamics, and showcase their ability to translate insights into tangible design solutions. A strong portfolio presentation is crucial for this role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Workplace Design Strategist - Expression of Interest position:

• Submit your CV and professional portfolio through the provided application link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features case studies demonstrating your expertise in workplace strategy, design strategy, and spatial consulting, with a focus on commercial workplace projects. Highlight your process from research to implementation.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords such as "workplace strategy," "design strategy," "spatial consulting," "organizational change," "stakeholder engagement," and "future of work." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your strategic approach, using specific project examples. Be ready to discuss your understanding of workplace trends and how you collaborate with design teams.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Hassell's mission, values, and recent workplace projects to demonstrate your genuine interest and alignment with their human-centred design philosophy.

⚠️ 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.