Strategic Design Director - Markets & Growth

Gensler; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Annual bonuses

401k plan

Profit sharing

Job summary

Gensler in San Jose seeks a dynamic, client-focused Project Director to drive growth across corporate workplace, higher education, mixed-use, and developer-driven projects. You will leverage deep market knowledge to shape design strategies and mentor design professionals while collaborating with design teams and stakeholders to deliver impactful solutions.

The role emphasizes leadership in growth, client engagement, and thought leadership within a global design firm.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of architectural experience with a focus on workplace, higher education, mixed-use, commercial, and developer-driven projects.
• Proven ability to build strong client relationships, uncover strategic opportunities, and win large engagements.
• Exceptional client relationships and business development skills, including engagement with C-suite executives.
• Adept at storytelling and delivering compelling presentations that articulate design strategies and solutions.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing project delivery, budgets, and schedules.
• Active involvement in industry organizations and community networks, with a passion for thought leadership and innovation.
• Registered architect or equivalent professional experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Act as a market-facing leader driving growth of practice areas and client engagement.
• Build and strengthen relationships with corporate, higher education, and developer clients to expand Gensler's portfolio.
• Identify, develop and execute strategies to win new work, lead proposals, interviews, and presentations.
• Collaborate with design teams to deliver informed, high-quality project solutions meeting client goals.
• Represent Gensler at industry events and conferences sharing market insights and design approaches.
• Partner with leaders to recruit top talent and develop a diverse, high-performing team.
• Lead and mentor teams to achieve design excellence and support core values.
• Oversee project delivery for strategic projects ensuring schedules, budgets, and quality standards.
• Support design strategy, team coordination and client presentations.
• Collaborate with regional offices to strengthen client engagement and promote resource sharing.
• Establish budgetary frameworks and investment strategies for growth.

Skills

Architectural experience

Client relationships

Business development

Presentation skills

Project delivery management

Industry involvement

Registered architect (preferred)

Job description

Gensler in San Jose seeks a dynamic, client-focused Project Director to drive growth across corporate workplace, higher education, mixed-use, and developer-driven projects. You will leverage deep market knowledge to shape design strategies and mentor design professionals while collaborating with design teams and stakeholders to deliver impactful solutions.

The role emphasizes leadership in growth, client engagement, and thought leadership within a global design firm.