Studio Design Leader - Commercial Mixed-Use

About the role

HKS is seeking a Studio Design Leader to advance Design Excellence for commercial mixed‑use projects. The role involves critical design dialogue across project teams, overseeing multiple concurrent projects, and fostering leadership, collaboration, and client relationships.

Key responsibilities

• Support project design leaders and evaluate studio work against strategic plans.
• Collaborate on strategic planning, marketing strategy, and resource allocation.
• Ensure project teams develop measurable design integration, innovation, and impact standards.
• Guide projects from programming through construction, shaping vision, goals, and documentation.
• Mentor designers, lead critiques, and act as primary client interface.
• Manage client expectations, team communication, and consultant coordination.
• Monitor staffing, utilization, and growth, recommending adjustments as needed.
• Serve as technical resource, resolving complex problems and promoting sustainable design solutions.

Required profile

• Accredited professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related field.
• Licensure or certification in the chosen discipline preferred.
• Minimum 15 years of experience, including leadership of design teams.
• Proven track record in business development, client relationship building, and project delivery.
• Experience in sustainable design and familiarity with design‑related software.

Required skills

• Proficiency with Vision design software.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Project, and Microsoft Teams.
• Logistics management skills for coordinating people and resources.
• Strong presentation abilities for client and internal meetings.