Design Manager

Open Plan Systems•Richmond, VA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Open Plan Systems is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Design Manager to lead the daily operations of our Design Department. This position is responsible for supervising the design team, managing workflow, ensuring the quality and accuracy of project deliverables, and maintaining company CET Designer standards, templates, and product libraries. The Design Manager will work closely with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Customer Service to ensure projects are completed efficiently, accurately, and on schedule. This is a hands-on leadership role focused on team management, process improvement, technical oversight, and operational execution. While a strong understanding of commercial furniture design and CET Designer is essential, this position is not responsible for client space planning or serving as the primary interior designer for projects.

Requirements

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Drafting, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
Minimum five years of experience in commercial furniture design or a related field.
Minimum two years of supervisory or management experience.
Advanced proficiency in CET Designer required.
Working knowledge of AutoCAD preferred.
Strong understanding of commercial office furniture systems and manufacturing processes.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
Demonstrated leadership experience managing technical teams.
Strong organizational and project management skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Experience developing standardized processes and improving operational efficiency.
Ability to build effective working relationships across multiple departments.
Commitment to mentoring employees and building a high-performing team.

Responsibilities

Supervise, coach, and develop the Design Department team.
Assign projects and balance workloads to maximize productivity and meet deadlines.
Conduct performance coaching, training, and employee development.
Promote accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Maintain and oversee CET Designer standards, templates, extensions, and product libraries.
Ensure all design documentation meets company quality standards.
Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support for the design team.
Recommend and implement improvements to design processes and workflows.
Partner with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Customer Service to ensure seamless project execution.
Support the estimating and quoting process by ensuring design accuracy and feasibility.
Coordinate project priorities across departments while maintaining customer expectations.
Review drawings and specifications for completeness, consistency, and accuracy.
Ensure adherence to company standards and best practices.
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance customer satisfaction.
Develop and maintain department procedures and documentation.
Monitor department performance metrics and identify areas for improvement.
Stay current on CET updates, product changes, and internal operational processes affecting the Design Department.
Partner with Human Resources to recruit, interview, onboard, and develop Design Department personnel.
Foster a positive, team-oriented culture focused on accountability and continuous learning.