Director of Design

Lakeside HR Group; Blaine (MN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A boutique consulting firm is seeking a Director of Design to lead creative initiatives and manage design processes for trade show exhibits. The ideal candidate will have over five years of experience in design, particularly within the trade show industry, and a proven ability to translate client objectives into innovative exhibit solutions. The position requires strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and proficiency in design software. This is a full-time role based in Minnesota.

Qualifications

• Five or more years of experience as a senior-level designer.
• Experience directing complex multi-level exhibits.
• Ability to understand client brand objectives.

Responsibilities

• Direct creative initiatives and build brand strategy.
• Oversee the design process from concept to implementation.
• Manage and mentor design teams according to project objectives.

Skills

5+ years as senior-level designer

Experience in trade show exhibit design

Excellent interpersonal skills

Proficiency in 3D modeling software

Ability to manage multiple projects

Tools

SketchUp

Vectorworks

CAD programs

Rendering software

Job description

Overview

"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it" - Charles R. Swindoll

Director of Design

About The Job: Lakeside HR Group has been engaged by our client to recruit for a Director of Design to join their team.

Our client specializes in trade show exhibits, retail displays, and face-to-face marketing environments.

This role combines strategic design thinking with hands-on creative execution, managing creative scope for client projects from initial concept through the entire project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Interpreting client brands for 3D, translating their aesthetic and vibe into innovative activations and engagement strategies.
• Supervising design processes and guaranteeing design quality.
• Directing creative initiatives and building brand strategy and exhibit user experience strategy.
• Creative and innovative concepting, challenging creative boundaries and generating original ideas while balancing client budgets.
• Developing creative concepts into workable design plans and ensuring efficient application across projects.
• Collaborating with account management, project management, and production teams to deliver turn-key exhibit solutions.
• Overseeing the entire design process from concept to implementation, ensuring quality, timeliness, and budget adherence.
• Managing and mentoring design and creative teams to align with project objectives and brand standards.
• Ensuring design quality and consistency across all deliverables.
• Staying informed on industry trends and client behavior to produce relevant and impactful work.

Required Skills

• Five or more years of experience as a senior-level designer.
• Experience in trade show exhibit design and fabrication preferred.
• Experience directing complex multi-level exhibits, custom fabrication projects, and large-scale installations.
• Ability to understand client brand objectives and develop comprehensive exhibit strategies.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for communicating design concepts and project timelines.
• Ability to translate marketing objectives into compelling 3D exhibit experiences.
• Extensive supervisory experience leading cross-functional teams under tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling software (SketchUp, Vectorworks), CAD programs, and rendering software.
• Experience managing multiple concurrent projects with varying timelines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong understanding of trade show industry standards, union regulations, show services, logistics, and venue requirements.
• Knowledge of materials, fabrication techniques, lighting systems, AV integration, and sustainable exhibit practices.

About Lakeside HR Group

At Lakeside HR Group, we understand that finding the right job is essential for your career success. We are a boutique-style human resources consulting and recruiting firm dedicated to providing personalized, tailored solutions. When you partner with us, you are getting the entire Lakeside team working together to support your career goals.

What We\'re Looking For

• We\'re not hiring order-takers. This role is ideal for creative problem-solvers who thrive on challenges and take ownership of outcomes. The team values curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence—especially under pressure. They’re not just looking for someone to do a job, but for someone who:
• Finds satisfaction in solving complex, high-impact problems.
• Wants to grow alongside a passionate, talented team.
• Believes in building something greater through teamwork and shared purpose.

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Design

Industries

• Marketing Services