Associate Principal, Interiors

Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising; Toronto; On-site; CAD 85,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious interior design firm seeks an Associate Principal to drive innovative design solutions. This leadership role involves overseeing projects, mentoring staff, and maintaining high design standards. The candidate should hold relevant qualifications, including a degree in Interior Design and various certifications, and demonstrate substantial experience in the field.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 12 years’ relevant experience.
• Experience leading teams and client engagements.
• Proficiency in documentation and technical details.

Responsibilities

• Lead project teams from programming to construction.
• Engage in marketing efforts and client presentations.
• Mentor team members to pursue design excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Collaboration

Communication

Design Quality

Sustainability Practice

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Architecture

Active Interior Design Certification or Registered Architect license

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Revit

Microsoft Office

Bluebeam

Rhino

Enscape

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Watch Our Story: https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story

Each role in our organization contributes to our ability to make a positive difference in the world. Learn how you can help create impactful projects in your community and globally.

HDR is seeking an Associate Principal, Interiors to join our team and continue delivering innovative design solutions that improve health and well-being for our clients and communities. The Associate Principal will serve as a key link to HDR's expertise, acting as a leader in the design process and client engagement.

An Associate Principal upholds high standards of design excellence and innovation, approaching Interiors and Architecture as integrated components of our strategic design initiatives. Responsibilities include collaborating across disciplines and regions, leading project teams from programming through construction, developing professional networks, pursuing new business opportunities, mentoring staff, and providing leadership. This role requires inspiring teams, fostering collaboration, and promoting our culture of excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Partner with leadership to support operational and project excellence goals.
• Engage in marketing efforts, client meetings, and presentations to secure new projects and clients.
• Maintain and advocate for design quality and innovation.
• Mentor and motivate team members to pursue design excellence.
• Lead design reviews and promote a culture of quality and innovation.
• Support office culture and promote HDR’s brand.
• Assist in recruiting and interviewing candidates.
• Co-lead project management and technical objectives, ensuring successful project delivery.
• Demonstrate technical proficiency in documentation and details across project phases.
• Advocate for sustainable and healthy design practices.
• Collaborate across disciplines to deliver projects of varying scales and complexities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional registration or licensure in the local area.
• Experience leading teams, developing presentations, and engaging clients.
• Knowledge of the local and regional market.
• Active involvement in industry associations.
• Sustainability credentials or certifications.
• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, Rhino, Enscape.
• Experience in Health, Science, Higher Education, or Civic projects.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Architecture, or related field from an accredited institution.
• Active Interior Design Certification or Registered Architect license.
• Minimum of 12 years’ relevant experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Revit, and Bluebeam.
• Strong leadership, collaboration, and communication skills.
• Commitment to HDR’s employee-owned culture.

Our Values and Commitment:

We believe in building a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and empowered. Our Employee Network Groups foster belonging and support professional growth. We are committed to health, safety, and accessibility, adhering to applicable legislation and standards. HDR is a certified Living Wage Employer in several regions.

Additional Details

Location: Primary location varies by project and team needs.

Industry: Interiors

Schedule: Full-time, Regular

Job Posting Date: May 26, 2025

HDR is an equal opportunity employer committed to employment equity. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal history or background.

Join us to make a difference and work on solutions to the world's greatest challenges.