Sr Interior Design Lead / Department Leader

HGA•Sacramento, CA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

HGA is seeking an inspiring Interior Design Department Leader to guide the strategic direction, creative excellence, and operational performance of our Sacramento Interior Design practice. This leader will shape the vision for the studio, cultivate a high‑performing team, and ensure seamless alignment with office, departmental, and firmwide priorities. In this role, you will champion design innovation, uphold rigorous quality standards, and ensure that every project reflects HGA’s brand, client expectations, and project requirements. You’ll collaborate closely with senior leadership, architects, engineers, project managers, and external partners to deliver exceptional design outcomes across a range of project types. As a Senior Interior Designer, you will also remain hands‑on in project design and delivery, while partnering with Principals across sectors to pursue and secure new work. This is an opportunity to lead, influence, and elevate the impact of interior design within a nationally recognized, multidisciplinary design firm.

Requirements

Licensed Interior Designer with demonstrated experience in successful project delivery
20+ years of professional experience in Interior Design
Strong presentation skills with track record of successfully interviewing for new project work
Proven ability to lead teams, develop talent, and influence outcomes
Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with both team members and clients.
Strong business acumen, communication, and organizational skills
Ability to balance project responsibilities with leadership accountability

Responsibilities

Lead interior design efforts on multiple projects from conceptual design through to construction.
Collaborate with clients, contractors, consultants, and city agencies to ensure smooth project execution.
Develop and manage design programming, planning, and interior design strategies to meet client goals.
Oversee project schedules, budgets, and delivery timelines to ensure high-quality results.
Ensure designs meet building accessibility codes, exiting, and life safety requirements.
Communicate effectively with both internal teams and external stakeholders, maintaining strong relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
Set direction for the department aligned with firm and practice priorities.
Advance design quality, best practices, and knowledge sharing.
Position the department for future growth and capability development.
Further the national strategy for Interior Design and be accountable for advancing and practicing national initiatives locally.
Manage utilization, profitability, and staffing alignment.
Align resources to support project delivery and client outcomes.
Monitor performance and address risks proactively.
Build and develop a high-performing team through hiring, coaching, and retention.
Lead performance review, promotion, compensation, and succession processes.
Foster a culture of accountability, growth, and inclusion.
Partner with Interior Design Department Leaders and staffing coordinators to advocate for national team members and identify project opportunities to support career growth.
Partner across departments, offices, and practice groups on shared priorities.
Contribute to firm-wide initiatives and cross-disciplinary efforts.
Align stakeholders through clear communication and leadership.
Maintain involvement in project work while prioritizing department leadership responsibilities.