Design Director - Architecture

Your Role Gensler is at the forefront of transformative design solutions that drive change and deliver exceptional value for our clients. Our commitment to innovation, creativity, and impactful design outcomes has positioned us as a leader in the industry. We are seeking a visionary Design Director who is passionate about pushing the boundaries of design to lead our talented team and elevate our client solutions. What You Will Do Leadership & Strategy: Provide visionary leadership for the design team, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Develop and implement strategic design initiatives that align with client goals and business objectives. Client Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and objectives to deliver compelling design solutions. Act as the primary point of contact for major projects, ensuring clear communication and satisfaction. Mentor, Coach and Support Growth: Guide designers in discovering their strengths, mentor and coach to enhance and develop design skills. Provide open communication, active listening, and thoughtful questioning to unleash the potential of talent and teams within our People First culture. Creative Direction: Oversee design projects from concept through execution, ensuring that creative ideas are innovative, impactful, and aligned with the firm’s high standards. Mentor and inspire the design team to explore new ideas and concepts. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with other communities within the firm, including practice area/subject matter experts, client relationship leaders, and regional leadership, to integrate various perspectives into the design process and enhance the overall project delivery. Quality Assurance: Ensure all design deliverables are of exceptional quality and meet the firm’s standards for creativity, aesthetics, and functionality. Conduct regular reviews and provide constructive feedback to the design team. Market Trends & Innovation: Stay ahead of industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive insights. Bring fresh ideas and innovations to the table that ensure the firm remains a leader in design excellence and is well represented and published in the marketplace. Your Qualifications A Licensed Architect in the United States. Accredited degree in Architecture. Minimum of 15 years of experience in design, with at least 7 years in a leadership role within a large or renowned design firm. Proven track record of delivering successful, innovative design outcomes that have had a significant impact on client satisfaction and business growth. Exceptional portfolio showcasing a variety of design projects, highlighting innovative approaches and successful client solutions. Strong understanding of design principles, user experience, and project management methodologies. Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to articulate design concepts and decisions effectively to clients and teams. Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Previous experience in sustainable design projects preferable; especially built projects with LEED, Living Building Challenge, WELL Building Standard, Fitwel and/or Net Zero Building certification. Why Join Us? Be part of a world‑class design firm recognized for its innovation and impact. Lead a talented team of designers and collaborate with industry leaders on groundbreaking projects. A dynamic and inclusive work environment that encourages creativity and innovation. Competitive salary and benefits package, including professional development opportunities. Compensation and Benefits The base salary range will be estimated between $140,000 - $185,000. Gensler’s total compensation package is multi‑layered and includes a base salary, two annual bonuses paid in December and June. To learn more about our compensation philosophy and full benefits offerings, please visit Great People, Great Rewards | Gensler. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offer a 401(k), profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and twice‑annual bonus opportunities. As part of the firm’s commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, tuition for certain eligible programs or classes is reimbursed. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future. Life at Gensler From curated art exhibits to internal design competitions to “Well‑being Week,” our offices reflect our people’s diverse interests. We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life. Notice to Applicants We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer of choice. All aspects of employment decisions will be based on merit, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of any status protected under federal, state, or local law. Individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Please see also Know your rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal, right to work and E‑verify program, as required by law. Gensler endeavors to make gensler.com/careers accessible to all applicants. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us. #J-18808-Ljbffr