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- Tasks: Lead luxury hotel design projects and ensure exceptional guest experiences.
- Company: Join the prestigious Mandarin Oriental, known for its legendary service and innovative design.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, wellness benefits, and exclusive hotel stays worldwide.
- Why this job: Shape the future of luxury hospitality and make a real impact in design excellence.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in luxury hotel design with strong leadership and collaboration skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 ÂŁ per year.
Mandarin Oriental is looking for a Director, Architecture & Design to join our Technical Services – Architecture & Design team. Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, acting with integrity, respect, and responsibility? Do you embrace a growth mindset and take pride in delivering the exceptional? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional.
Mandarin Oriental is the award‑winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts, and residences, located in the most prestigious destinations globally. Celebrated for legendary service inspired by Asian heritage, the Group continues to shape the future of luxury hospitality through thoughtful design, innovation, and a strong global development pipeline.
Based at the Corporate Office in London, within the Technical Services – Architecture & Design function, the Director, Architecture & Design plays a strategic role in defining and safeguarding Mandarin Oriental’s design excellence across the EMEA region. The role is responsible for ensuring that new developments and major projects reflect the brand’s guest‑centric philosophy, seamlessly integrate technology and sustainability, and translate a deep understanding of place into refined, luxury product experiences. The position reports to the Group Director of Architecture & Design and works in close partnership with Development, Technical Services, Brand, and regional leadership teams.
Responsibilities
- Development Support – Accelerate Partner with Development and Regional Technical Services teams to evaluate planning and design of new projects at pre‑HMA stage. Recommend design improvements to ensure alignment with Mandarin Oriental’s ambition, positioning, and guest experience standards. Contribute to the Vision & Positioning (PULSE) process through strong understanding of local markets and regional product nuances. Deliver project‑specific Design Briefs aligned with the agreed Vision for each development. Lead the selection of Architects and Interior Designers capable of delivering the brand vision. Inspire and influence owners and development partners to adopt Mandarin Oriental’s design direction and recommendations. Maintain the Group’s leadership in luxury hotel and resort design by championing innovation and best‑in‑class design talent.
- Project Support – Elevate Support Project Leaders in delivering exceptional design outcomes by leading and shaping design conversations with consultants and partners. Review mock‑up room (MUR) designs and associated documentation. Conduct detailed space planning and layout reviews for guestrooms and all public areas including Restaurants & Bars, Spa, and MICE. Lead the briefing and review process for Speciality Suites. Support Regional Technical Services teams with major CAPEX and Strategic Asset Management initiatives. Track progress and communicate updates to leadership and key stakeholders.
- Brand Innovation Demonstrate design leadership and initiative across all projects and internal initiatives. Collaborate with internal teams to define ad‑hoc research and consumer insight requirements. Drive the development and evolution of Mandarin Oriental’s Processes, Tools, Product Standards & Guidelines (PS&G). Propose, research, trial, and implement innovative design and product solutions that elevate the guest experience. Actively contribute to brand innovation, sustainability principles, and global Technical Services initiatives. Support the Group Director of Architecture & Design on global priorities and initiatives as required.
As Director, Architecture & Design — We Expect From You
- University degree (or equivalent) in Architecture and/or Interior Design.
- 15+ years’ experience in luxury hotel and resort development, interior design, and construction.
- Proven senior leadership experience within luxury hospitality or comparable high‑end environments.
- Recognised expertise in luxury hotel and branded residence interior design.
- Strong spatial planning, sketching, and design review capabilities.
- Solid understanding of industry standards, codes, and sustainability frameworks (e.g. LEED).
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex design and construction processes across multiple projects.
- Strategic mindset with strong analytical, organisational, and problem‑solving skills.
- Proficiency in MS Office, AutoCAD, Revu‑Bluebeam, and relevant design tools.
- Collaborative, culturally sensitive, and confident in influencing owners and senior stakeholders.
- Fluent in English; additional languages are welcome.
- Willingness to travel within the EMEA region as required.
Our commitment to you
- Learning & Development Your success is our success. We provide tailored learning and development programmes to support your continuous growth.
- MOstay As a member of the #MOfamily, enjoy complimentary stays and attractive rates across Mandarin Oriental properties worldwide.
- Health & Colleague Wellness Your wellbeing matters to us. A range of health and wellness benefits are offered globally.
- Rewards & Benefits We offer a competitive senior leadership compensation and benefits package, aligned with local policies.
We’re Fans. Are you?
Director Architecture & Design EMEA employer: Mandarin Oriental
Contact Detail:
Mandarin Oriental Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director Architecture & Design EMEA
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts and attend events related to architecture and design. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your portfolio! Make sure your design work is front and centre. Create a stunning online portfolio that highlights your best projects. We want to see your creativity and how you’ve tackled challenges in past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Mandarin Oriental’s design philosophy. Understand their brand values and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their vision. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about our mission!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to join our exceptional team.
We think you need these skills to ace Director Architecture & Design EMEA
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Design: When writing your application, let your love for architecture and design shine through. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on that reflect your creativity and attention to detail. We want to see how you embrace the exceptional!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to align with our values and the job description. Highlight your experience in luxury hospitality and how it relates to our guest-centric philosophy. This shows us you understand what we're all about!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you're keen to be part of the Mandarin Oriental family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mandarin Oriental
✨Know Your Craft Inside Out
As a candidate for the Director, Architecture & Design role, it's crucial to demonstrate your mastery of architecture and design principles. Brush up on your knowledge of luxury hotel standards, sustainability frameworks like LEED, and innovative design solutions that elevate guest experiences. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've successfully integrated these elements.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This position requires strong leadership experience, so prepare to share examples of how you've led teams in high-end environments. Think about times when you influenced stakeholders or inspired a team to achieve exceptional design outcomes. Highlight your strategic mindset and problem-solving abilities during the interview.
✨Understand the Brand's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Mandarin Oriental's brand philosophy and guest-centric approach. Be prepared to discuss how you can align new developments with their vision and positioning. Show that you understand the importance of integrating technology and sustainability into design, and be ready to suggest innovative ideas that reflect the brand's values.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the company's future projects, design direction, and how they measure success in their developments. This not only shows your genuine interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company aligns with your own values and career goals.
