Director - Interior Design

DAHLIN Architecture | Planning | Interiors•Bellevue, WA

3d•$150,000 - $162,500•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director – Interior Design will serve as DAHLIN's market ambassador for the Pacific Northwest Interior Design sector, helping strengthen the firm's reputation, expand its client portfolio, and drive sustainable revenue growth through strategic relationships and market leadership. This hybrid doer-seller leadership role combines high-level business development with deep interior design expertise and credibility to advise clients on interior design, procurement, and project delivery. The ideal candidate brings an established network of developers, owners, builders, investors, and industry partners throughout Northern California, along with a proven track record of generating new business. Working closely with firm leadership, practice leaders, and marketing, this individual develops market strategies, identifies emerging opportunities, leads pursuit efforts, and serves as a trusted advisor throughout the client lifecycle—from initial relationship development through project execution. Success in this role is measured by revenue growth, expansion of strategic client relationships, development of a robust pipeline, market influence, and long-term partnerships that reinforce DAHLIN's leadership throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Interior Design or Architecture.
10+ years of progressively increasing management and leadership experience within highly regarded design firms.
10+ years of successful business development experience.
Experience working in the Pacific Northwest.
Must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States without any restrictions. Please note that visa sponsorship is not offered for this position.

Nice To Haves

Certified Interior Designer (CID) preferred.
Experience leading complex pursuit strategies and negotiating professional service agreements.
Excellent presentation, communication, and executive relationship-building skills

Responsibilities

Develop and execute DAHLIN's Interior Design business development strategy for the Pacific Northwest, aligned with firmwide growth initiatives.
Leverage an established network ("book of business") to generate new client relationships and project opportunities.
Lead business development efforts focused on interior design in collaboration with architectural leaders and the firm’s marketing team.
Build relationships with developers, owners, municipalities, brokers, consultants, contractors, and industry influencers.
Represent DAHLIN at industry organizations, conferences, speaking engagements, and community events.
Develop annual market development plans identifying target clients, market sectors, revenue opportunities, and strategic initiatives.
Develop and maintain executive-level relationships with developers, ownership groups, investors, and strategic partners to expand DAHLIN's market share throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Build and lead executive-level meetings with owners, investors, and development teams.
Act as a trusted advisor by understanding client business goals and aligning DAHLIN's services accordingly.
Ensure exceptional client experience from pursuit through project completion.
Lead major pursuit strategies and Go/No-Go decision-making.
Partner with Marketing and technical teams to position DAHLIN competitively.
Utilize interior design and architectural expertise to engage clients in meaningful discussions regarding design solutions and project delivery.
Provide technical insight that builds client confidence and differentiates DAHLIN from competitors.
Partner with practice leaders to position DAHLIN's design expertise as a competitive differentiator during client pursuits.
Monitor interior design trends and competitive market conditions to identify emerging opportunities.
Foster a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive team environment that supports engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Provide coaching, technical guidance, and professional development opportunities that help team members grow and perform at their highest potential.
Establish clear performance expectations and promote open communication to align individual contributions with firm goals.
Mentor interior designers and project leaders in business development and client engagement.