Studio Design Leader

HKS inc•Los Angeles, CA

62d•$130,000 - $160,000

About The Position

HKS Los Angeles is seeking a Studio Design Leader to join our team. Responsible for advancing Design Excellence (as defined by the Design Enterprise) in the respective studio. They must ensure and participate in critical design dialog across all project teams within the studio and evaluate the quality of studio work against the strategic plan. The Studio Design Leader often leads or participates in multiple projects concurrently. The role focuses on growing leadership skills related to relationship-building, collaboration and interpersonal skills while working on great projects for exceptional clients.

Requirements

Accredited professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, related degree for respective field, or relevant years in education or experience
Licensure or certification in chosen field preferred
Typically 15+ years of experience, including experience in a leadership role with demonstrated success in both project work and talent/resource development
Significant experience in the practice area of the studio
Sustainable design accreditation preferred
Familiarity in the capability and benefits of design-related software preferred
Familiarity in the functionality of Vision
Experience in MS Office Suite, including Microsoft Project and Microsoft Teams preferred
Proficiency in logistics management including connecting people and resources to the right place at the right time
Successful track record in directing and providing leadership for design teams from business development presentations through developing strategy and design concepts
Successful track record in success building, nurturing and fostering new client relationships
Excellent presentation skills
Strong leadership, organization, communication and relationship management skills
Strong organizational skills and the ability to work on multiple projects at the same time
Ability to work closely with design leaders to promote an inter-disciplinary design approach and philosophy, and to facilitate its advancement across the firm
Ability to manage team with diplomatic and collaborative leadership style which puts value on relationships and collaboration, both internal and external
Ability to communicate in a clear, concise and professional manner both verbally and in writing
Ability to problem solve and apply innovative solutions
Ability to collaborate and encourage collaboration in a team environment
Ability to effectively meet deadlines at expected quality
Travel will be required

Responsibilities

Supports all project design leaders and project teams within the studio and evaluates the quality of studio work against the strategic plan, in collaboration with studio and office leadership
Collaborates in strategic planning and facilitates communication for specific practice with other leaders, such as vetting studio marketing strategy and allocating needed resources
Ensures project teams develop measures that can be evaluated during all stages of the project for the design enterprise standards of integration, innovation, and impact
Collaborates on projects assigned to respective studio by focusing on the project process, development of the vision and goals, service/delivery, work environment and project documentation
Collaborates during the initial marketing stages through completion of construction, including programming client needs, conceptual and schematic design, design development and delivery
Collaborates with leaders such as Project Manager, Studio Practice Leader and Regional Design Director to lead the team through all phases by guiding, advising and mentoring other designers on project work, developing design direction and leading critiques
May act as a primary interface with clients for respective studio, building and strengthening connections through a comprehensive understanding of their mission, goals, policies, needs and progress
Manages client expectations, team communication and consultant coordination for respective studio in collaboration with project team leadership
May monitor staffing, utilization and growth management across the studio, including recommending adjustments where necessary
Serves as a technical resource for the studio, assisting in the resolution of complex problems, and helping them grow in their roles
Reviews concept development and, in collaboration with Studio Practice Leader and Regional Design Director, provides leadership, inspiration and motivation to the design team to create the highest quality design documentation and to achieve client satisfaction
Partners with Office Director as a liaison between the firm leadership and staff, communicating firm and regional initiatives and priorities
Emphasizes and incorporates HKS strategic priorities, such as Design Measures into client solutions
Operates with "ONE Firm" mindset, minimizes the sector and operational variables within the office in collaboration with Regional Design Director
Integrates HKS services, expertise and innovation in all projects, while actively seeking opportunities to incorporate HKS best practices, sustainable design solutions, subject matter expertise and resources strategically and efficiently for the client, user and community
Exercises skills of persuasion and negotiation on critical issues

Benefits

HKS offers a comprehensive total compensation & benefits package with health, dental, and vision care coverage, 401(k) plans, life & AD&D insurance, short/long term disability plans, paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, vacation), and much more for benefits-eligible employees.

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