Associate Designer

Associate Designer

London

To be part of the G.A Group is to create design that inspires and positively influences those who experience it. We value creative thinking and encourage all our team to be restless in the drive to provide industry‑leading design solutions for all our clients. All members of our team must have the ability to translate innovative ideas into reality.

This role offers a high level of responsibility, representing the company to clients and external partners while overseeing multiple design projects from concept to completion.

The Associate will have significant experience in interior architecture and design management across hospitality, F&B, spa, and large‑scale hotel developments. A passion for creative excellence and a deep understanding of both design and project delivery are essential.

Working closely with the Principal in Charge, the Associate establishes the overall design vision and ensures continuity throughout each project’s lifecycle. They will lead and mentor project teams, maintain and develop client relationships, and take responsibility for the creative, operational, and commercial success of their studio.

The Associate will also collaborate with colleagues across G.A Group’s global network—including residential, architecture, product design, and branding divisions—to promote integrated, holistic design solutions under our Resonance model.

Responsibilities

Design & Creative Leadership

• Establish the overall design direction and ensure design integrity from concept through to completion.
• Guide Senior Designers, Project Managers, and FF&E teams to ensure design continuity and alignment with the client’s brief.
• Communicate design intent clearly to clients, consultants, and the internal project team.
• Review design presentations and deliverables to maintain quality and creative excellence.
• Translate design concepts into schematic and technical documentation, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
• Lead internal and external design presentations as required.

Project & Commercial Management

• Oversee multiple projects to ensure they are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Prepare and manage project contracts, including allocation of fees, schedules, and resources.
• Monitor project profitability and fee expenditure in coordination with the Finance team.
• Review invoices and billing schedules to ensure timely payment and financial accuracy.
• Manage project risk, compliance, and quality assurance throughout all phases.
• Attend and chair project reviews to track progress and resolve design or delivery issues.

Client & Business Development

• Act as a senior point of contact for clients, maintaining strong and trusted relationships.
• Identify and develop new business opportunities and nurture repeat client partnerships.
• Support the preparation of new business proposals and presentations.
• Represent G.A Group externally to promote the studio’s reputation and capabilities.

Studio Leadership

• Provide day‑to‑day management of the studio, ensuring smooth operations and a positive working culture.
• Mentor and develop team members, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
• Manage recruitment and resource allocation in coordination with Directors and HR.
• Conduct annual staff reviews and support career development plans.
• Ensure compliance with G.A Group standards, health and safety, and operational procedures.

Coordination & Documentation

• Oversee coordination between interior architecture, FF&E, and external consultant teams.
• Ensure all project documentation meets G.A Group’s standards of quality and consistency.
• Review drawings, specifications, and schedules for accuracy and code compliance.
• Monitor and approve timesheets, supplemental service requests, and change orders as required.
• Ensure all project communication and deliverables are managed effectively through Deltek and internal systems.

Skills

• Excellent knowledge of AutoCAD is essential.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and PowerPoint.
• Good working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign).
• Strong understanding of project management software such as Deltek.
• Comprehensive knowledge of design standards, construction processes, and documentation protocols.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Abilities

• Strategic and creative thinker with strong leadership capability.
• Skilled at managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience in fee negotiation and project profitability.
• Excellent interpersonal and client‑facing skills.
• Problem solver with a collaborative and proactive mindset.
• Able to perform under pressure while motivating and supporting the wider team.
• Highly organized with meticulous attention to detail.