Design Head

The Design Head is a leadership position within 91squarefeet, responsible for driving the overall creative direction, design strategy, and execution of retail & commercial design projects. As the Design Head, you will lead a team of designers, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and work closely with clients to deliver innovative and captivating retail experiences.

• Provide visionary leadership to the design team, inspiring creativity and fostering a collaborative work environment
• Set the creative direction and design strategy for the Design Studio, aligning it with the overall business objectives and client requirements
• Manage complete P&L for Design Studio and set up processes to ensure timely cash flows
• Identify cost reduction opportunities and implement cost control measures to improve operational efficiency and profitability
• Build strong relationships with clients, understanding their business objectives, and translating them into compelling design solutions
• Actively engage in client meetings, presentations, and workshops to capture requirements, provide design insights, and address concerns
• Lead by example, producing exceptional design work that pushes creative boundaries and meets clients’ aesthetic and functional requirements
• Conduct regular design reviews and provide constructive feedback to ensure consistent quality of output
• Design and implement streamlined workflows and standardized processes to improve efficiency and productivity across various stages of the design process, including concept development, space planning, material selection, and project execution
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to track productivity and measure the impact of process enhancements
• Evaluate and implement technology suites that improve efficiency and speed of project delivery
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and forums, showcasing the studio’s expertise and thought leadership in design
• Publish articles, blog posts, and thought pieces on relevant design topics to elevate the company’s profile and attract new clients and talent

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
• Proven experience (8+ years) in leading Retail/Commercial design projects, with a strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in conceptualization, space planning, branding, and visual merchandising
• Exceptional design sensibility and a deep understanding of retail trends, consumer behavior, and market dynamics
• Proficiency in design software such as 3DS Max, AutoCAD, SketchUp, or similar tools
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team of designers
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively articulate design concepts and build relationships with clients and stakeholders
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously