At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative workplace design projects for top-tier clients in a dynamic team environment.
- Company: Join a leading architectural practice with a collaborative and supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of workplace design while making impactful connections in the industry.
- Qualifications: Qualified architect or interior designer with a strong client network and leadership skills.
- Other info: Ideal for a design leader ready to make their mark in a thriving studio.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
This is a rare opportunity to join a leading architectural practice as Director of Workplace Design, taking ownership of a growing commercial interiors sector within a highly respected studio. You’ll lead a specialist team delivering workplace refurbishments for blue‑chip clients across financial services, technology, and legal sectors. With a studio of over 120 professionals across multiple disciplines, the business offers strong collaboration, internal referral opportunities, and a platform to scale your impact. This role suits a commercially minded design leader who enjoys winning work, building trusted client relationships, and shaping a sector strategically. You’ll have autonomy to grow revenue, manage financial performance, and strengthen market presence — supported by an established brand and delivery capability. You’ll be a confident storyteller, mentor, and leader who thrives on shaping workplace environments that respond to changing ways of working. While an existing client book is helpful, what matters most is your ability to activate networks, generate opportunity, and build long‑term partnerships.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead projects from initial client contact through to project launch and daily direction, reporting to the MD.
- Analyse and develop project briefs in collaboration with the team.
- Grow and manage a portfolio of workplace projects, ensuring high standards of design and execution.
- Set KPIs, forecasts, and manage your own P&L responsibilities.
- Attend networking events, talks, and sector discussions to maintain industry presence.
- Secure new projects and clients through innovative and sensitive design strategies.
- Collaborate with the marketing team on social media content, website updates, newsletters, and marketing collateral.
- Mentor and lead a team of architects and designers, delegating responsibilities effectively.
Experience & Skills
- Qualified architect (RIBA or ARB registered) or Interior Design/Interior Architect.
- Track record of winning work and maintaining a network of clients in the workplace design sector.
- Demonstrable experience across all RIBA stages in the UK.
- Design Knowledge: Strong understanding of design, construction, and refurbishment processes.
- Experience pitching and presenting ideas to clients effectively.
- Confident communicator and strong leader, capable of conveying project performance to various stakeholders.
- Ability to think innovatively about design, project processes, and improvements.
- Comfortable working in a fast‑paced and demanding environment.
This role offers the autonomy to lead and shape the workplace sector within a supportive, happy, and driven team. The diversity of the practice also allows for collaboration and cross‑selling between disciplines, adding further value to client relationships and project opportunities. It’s an ideal position for a strong leader with a track record in practice, seeking an opportunity to step into their own or avoid the pressures of establishing their own practice. The office has hybrid working 3 days in the office and 2 days wfh.
Interior Design Director - Global Studio employer: Curio Careers
Contact Detail:
Curio Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interior Design Director - Global Studio
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and mingle! Attend industry events, talks, and networking sessions to meet potential clients and collaborators. Building relationships is key, so don’t be shy about introducing yourself and sharing your passion for workplace design.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Use social media and our website to flaunt your projects and design ideas. Share insights, case studies, and even behind-the-scenes looks at your work. This not only builds your brand but also attracts clients who resonate with your style.
✨Be a Storyteller
When pitching to clients, tell a compelling story about your design vision. Connect your ideas to their needs and demonstrate how you can transform their workspace. Remember, it’s not just about the design; it’s about the experience you create.
✨Leverage Your Team
Don’t go it alone! Collaborate with your team to brainstorm innovative solutions and strategies. A strong, united front will impress clients and show that you’re capable of leading a talented group towards success.
We think you need these skills to ace Interior Design Director - Global Studio
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your experience in workplace design and any successful projects you've led. We want to see how you've built client relationships and won work in the past, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the role. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you understand what we’re looking for and how you fit into our vision.
Be a Confident Storyteller: Since storytelling is key in this role, share examples of how you've effectively communicated project ideas to clients. We love seeing how you can convey your design vision and engage stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Curio Careers
✨Know Your Design Story
As a potential Interior Design Director, you need to be a confident storyteller. Prepare to discuss your design journey, highlighting key projects and how you've shaped workplace environments. This will showcase your experience and ability to connect with clients.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be ready to talk about your mentoring style and how you've led teams in the past. Share specific examples of how you've delegated responsibilities and fostered collaboration within your team. This will demonstrate your capability as a strong leader.
✨Understand the Business Side
Since this role involves managing P&L responsibilities, brush up on your financial acumen. Be prepared to discuss how you've grown revenue in previous roles and your approach to setting KPIs. This will show that you're not just a creative mind but also a commercially minded leader.
✨Network Like a Pro
Given the importance of building long-term partnerships, think about your networking strategies. Share how you've activated your networks to secure new projects and clients. This will highlight your proactive approach to business development.