Design Manager

Company Classification:

Furniture Manufacturer

Position:

Design Manager

Offered By:

Open Plan Systems 4700 Deepwater Terminal Rd. Richmond, VA 23234

Company Description:

Open Plan Systems is a leading manufacturer of quality manufactured office products, but at a fraction of the cost of larger manufacturers. In addition, we are also a leading distributor of seating, storage and accessories. We are passionate about keeping our customers satisfied by providing them with unparalleled service, quality and savings. Open Plan Systems is located in Richmond, Virginia; established in 2001. Our showroom, and administration building cover 400,000 square feet and our manufacturing center covers 10.8 acres' we continue to keep growing! Open Plan Systems ships its products nationwide, with a focus on the Eastern United States.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Design Manager to lead the daily operations of our Design Department. This position is responsible for supervising the design team, managing workflow, ensuring the quality and accuracy of project deliverables, and maintaining company CET Designer standards, templates, and product libraries. The Design Manager will work closely with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Customer Service to ensure projects are completed efficiently, accurately, and on schedule.

This is a hands-on leadership role focused on team management, process improvement, technical oversight, and operational execution. While a strong understanding of commercial furniture design and CET Designer is essential, this position is not responsible for client space planning or serving as the primary interior designer for projects.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Workflow Management

• Supervise, coach, and develop the Design Department team.
• Assign projects and balance workloads to maximize productivity and meet deadlines.
• Conduct performance coaching, training, and employee development.
• Promote accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

CET Administration & Technical Leadership

• Maintain and oversee CET Designer standards, templates, extensions, and product libraries.
• Ensure all design documentation meets company quality standards.
• Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support for the design team.
• Recommend and implement improvements to design processes and workflows.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Customer Service to ensure seamless project execution.
• Support the estimating and quoting process by ensuring design accuracy and feasibility.
• Coordinate project priorities across departments while maintaining customer expectations.

Quality Assurance

• Review drawings and specifications for completeness, consistency, and accuracy.
• Ensure adherence to company standards and best practices.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance customer satisfaction.

Department Operations

• Develop and maintain department procedures and documentation.
• Monitor department performance metrics and identify areas for improvement.
• Stay current on CET updates, product changes, and internal operational processes affecting the Design Department.

Talent Development

• Partner with Human Resources to recruit, interview, onboard, and develop Design Department personnel.
• Foster a positive, team-oriented culture focused on accountability and continuous learning.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Drafting, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum five years of experience in commercial furniture design or a related field.
• Minimum two years of supervisory or management experience.
• Advanced proficiency in CET Designer required.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD preferred.
• Strong understanding of commercial office furniture systems and manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Additional Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership experience managing technical teams.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience developing standardized processes and improving operational efficiency.
• Ability to build effective working relationships across multiple departments.
• Commitment to mentoring employees and building a high-performing team.

Benefits:

• HRA
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Paid time off
• Life Insurance
• Long Term Disability
• Short Term Disability
• 401K Program

Equal Opportunity Employer Open Plan Systems is an equal opportunity, M/F/V/D, and affirmative action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of race, creed, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation.

Job Number: 04K-0803090326