Design Manager

JLL•Chicago, IL

1d•$100,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

In this role as Design Manager within our Hospitality Design & Construction team, you'll leverage your extensive high-end hospitality design expertise to deliver exceptional guest experiences through sophisticated, detail-oriented environments. You will work collaboratively with project management teams to maintain project schedules, navigate complex design challenges, and ensure design integrity and furniture specifications remain within established budgets. This position requires a seasoned professional who can balance creative excellence with practical project execution while managing the intricate details that define luxury hospitality.

Requirements

Professional degree in Interior Design or Architecture with 10+ years of direct experience in high-end hospitality design, including boutique hotels, luxury resorts, or premium restaurant environments
Demonstrated success managing all phases of complex hospitality projects from concept through completion, with proven ability to handle multiple sophisticated projects simultaneously
Extensive knowledge of luxury hospitality operations, guest experience design, and the intricate detailing required for premium environments
Expert understanding of FF&E procurement, specification, budgeting, and installation coordination for high-end hospitality applications
Comprehensive knowledge of building codes, accessibility standards, hospitality-specific regulations, and building systems as they relate to guest-facing environments
Strong technical proficiency in construction documentation, custom millwork detailing, material specifications, and coordination with specialized trades
Applied knowledge of AutoCAD software with ability to produce and review detailed construction documents
Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project) for budget tracking, scheduling, and presentation development
Exceptional communication skills with ability to articulate complex design details to diverse audiences, from craftsmen to executive leadership
Proven leadership abilities with strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and effective relationship management capabilities
Familiarity with MEP and structural systems and their integration within hospitality design solutions

Nice To Haves

Experience with internationally recognized luxury hospitality brands or independent high-end properties
Portfolio demonstrating sophisticated material palettes, custom furniture design, and completed high-end hospitality projects
Additional proficiency in Revit, SketchUp, InDesign, or rendering software
Registration or certification with NCIDQ, AIA, or relevant professional association
Experience with historic renovation or adaptive reuse projects within hospitality contexts
Knowledge of emerging hospitality design trends, wellness-focused design, and experiential guest environments

Responsibilities

Collaborate closely with project management teams, brand, architects and other stakeholders to maintain design schedules, proactively identify potential delays, and implement solutions to keep projects on track
Navigate and resolve complex design details inherent to high-end hospitality projects, including custom millwork, specialty finishes, bespoke furniture, and intricate installation sequences
Monitor and control design and FF&E budgets throughout all project phases, providing cost analysis, value engineering recommendations, and budget reconciliation
Develop and refine design concepts that reflect brand standards and elevate the guest experience in luxury hospitality environments
Review and provide detailed commentary on design documents at all stages, ensuring technical accuracy, constructability, and alignment with project objectives
Coordinate with internal stakeholders, ownership groups, brand representatives, and external consultants to maintain design vision while addressing operational requirements
Prepare comprehensive presentation materials and effectively communicate design intent, material selections, and project progress to executive leadership and ownership
Collaborate with specialized vendors and artisans to develop custom design solutions that meet the elevated standards of high-end hospitality
Incorporate sustainable design practices and wellness-focused elements that align with contemporary luxury hospitality expectations
Maintain thorough documentation of design decisions, specifications, budgets, and schedules throughout project lifecycle