Design Associate Role Summary
A globally recognised design studio working across luxury interior architecture and hospitality-led projects is seeking a Design Associate to join its senior leadership team. This is a high-level design management role, offering the opportunity to work closely with the CEO, Studio Director and Design Director, while overseeing interior architectural teams across multiple projects and project stages.
This position sits at the core of the studio’s creative and operational output. As a senior representative of the business, you will play a key role in shaping design quality, supporting teams and ensuring projects are delivered to the highest professional standards.
The Role
As Design Associate, you will assume ownership and accountability for the delivery of assigned projects, ensuring that all design work is technically sound, commercially aware, fit for purpose and aligned with client objectives and budgets.
You will lead and mentor project teams, manage resources and programmes, and collaborate closely with senior leadership to balance creative ambition with practical delivery.
Key Responsibilities
Acting as a senior ambassador for the studio across projects, clients and external stakeholders
Leading the creative process from concept through to construction-stage delivery
Supporting directors with strategic and operational planning
Managing resources, project programming, time and budget control across multiple projects
Chairing weekly project meetings and reporting project status to senior leadership
Overseeing and reviewing design output, including sketches, CAD drawings, specifications and presentations
Working closely with suppliers, manufacturers, consultants and contractors
Supporting recruitment, interviewing and team development when required
Promoting a culture of collaboration, accountability and continued professional development
Undertaking UK and international travel for meetings, research, site visits and inspections as required
Skills & Experience Required
Senior-level experience leading interior architecture or interior design teams
Strong creative design ability with excellent technical and detailing knowledge
Ability to develop design concepts with commercial and practical awareness
Proven experience managing multiple projects, resources and design teams
Strong knowledge of FF&E, finishes, materials and commercial suppliers
Proficiency in PowerPoint and Microsoft Office
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Confident decision-making with a solutions-focused mindset
High attention to detail and strong problem-solving ability
Persuasive, calm and collaborative leadership style
Perks & Benefits
Flexible work environment including one day per week working from home, with periods of remote working when project schedules allow
A strong focus on wellbeing, with a supportive studio culture that encourages work–life balance
Regular social activities and studio events, fostering a collaborative and connected team environment
Ongoing professional development, including support for continued learning, training and career progression
