Design Director

DMC Recruitment; Barrie; Hybrid; CAD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in custom home and commercial design is seeking a visionary Design Director to guide their creative team. This role requires a strong background in high-end residential projects, excellent leadership skills, and a passion for architectural excellence. The successful candidate will work closely with management to set design standards and ensure project quality while fostering a culture of innovation and mentorship. Flexible work arrangements and opportunities for ownership within the firm are offered.

Benefits

Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid options

Opportunities for ownership or partnership

Dynamic, creative environment committed to innovation

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in large custom residential projects.
• Proven experience as a senior designer or architectural director.
• Deep expertise in conceptual design and project execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire design teams in producing innovative architectural solutions.
• Collaborate with ownership on strategic goals and project priorities.
• Establish and maintain design standards and quality assurance protocols.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Presentation

Interpersonal Skills

Collaboration

Education

Degree in Architecture or related field

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Adobe Creative Suite

SketchUp

Job description

Our esteemed client, a leader in custom home and commercial design, is seeking an experienced and visionary Design Director to lead our creative team and shape the future of the firm’s design vision. This leadership role involves working closely with ownership and executive management to establish design standards, set strategic directions, and ensure the delivery of innovative, high-quality architectural solutions. The ideal candidate is passionate about architectural excellence, collaborative leadership, and fostering a culture of design innovation, with extensive experience in large-scale custom residential projects.

Key Responsibilities :

• Design Leadership & Vision : Develop and communicate the firm’s design standards, aesthetic vision, and creative strategies. Inspire and guide the design team to produce innovative, cohesive, and sustainable architectural solutions that align with the firm’s brand and client expectations, particularly in large-scale residential design.
• Collaboration with Ownership & Management : Partner with firm owners and senior management to define strategic goals, project priorities, and long-term vision. Contribute to business planning, marketing strategies, and firm growth initiatives, ensuring design excellence remains central to all efforts.
• Standards & Quality Assurance : Establish and maintain rigorous design standards, review processes, and quality control protocols across all projects. Ensure consistency, excellence, and compliance with industry codes and regulations.
• Project Oversight & Direction : Provide high-level oversight on key projects, guiding project teams through concept development, design refinement, and client presentations. Support project managers and designers in resolving complex design challenges, with a focus on large, custom residential homes.
• Mentorship & Team Development : Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of architects, designers, and technologists. Foster a collaborative environment that encourages innovation, professional growth, and technical excellence.
• Client & Stakeholder Engagement : Cultivate strong relationships with clients, consultants, and internal teams. Represent the firm at industry events, client meetings, and design reviews, promoting the firm’s vision and capabilities.
• Strategic Planning & Innovation : Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and sustainable design practices. Integrate innovative approaches into project workflows and the firm’s overall design direction.
• Business Development & Brand Representation : Collaborate with marketing and business development teams to showcase the firm’s design philosophy, attract new clients, and expand project opportunities.

Qualifications :

• Extensive experience leading the design of large, custom residential projects, with a strong portfolio demonstrating excellence in high-end, bespoke home design.
• Proven experience as a senior designer, design lead, or director within a reputable architectural firm, with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience.
• Deep expertise in conceptual design, technical detailing, and project execution of large residential homes.
• Strong leadership skills with experience working closely with ownership or executive teams on strategic initiatives, standards, and firm-wide design direction.
• Exceptional ability to mentor and inspire design teams, fostering innovation and collaboration.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, etc.).- Knowledge of sustainable design principles and green building certifications (LEED, WELL, etc.).

Benefits :

• Salary Range : $110,000 – $130,000 annually, commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities for ownership or partnership within the firm.
• Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid options.
• A dynamic, creative environment committed to innovation, mentorship, and professional growth.
• The opportunity to shape the firm’s future and leave a lasting impact on the architectural landscape, particularly in the realm of luxury residential design.