Lead Interior Designer - Commercial & Hospitality

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Prestigious Sandton projects

Creative studio environment

Professional development

Professional body memberships

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Bonuses

Generous annual leave

Team events

Design resources access

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Interior Designer to drive concepts and execution for high-profile commercial and hospitality spaces in Sandton, Gauteng. You will lead projects from inception to completion, nurture client relationships, and mentor a team of designers.

You will guide FF&E sourcing, coordinate with architects and contractors, and ensure design intent is realized across timelines and budgets. A strong portfolio and leadership skills are essential.

Qualifications

• A degree or diploma in Interior Design or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional interior design experience with a strong portfolio.
• Proven experience leading design projects and managing client expectations.
• High proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong FF&E sourcing, procurement, and specification knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of interior design schemes for commercial and hospitality projects.
• Create innovative design proposals with mood boards, 3D visuals, and drawings.
• Manage client relationships and present concepts to ensure satisfaction.
• Oversee selection of FF&E and ensure design intent is realized.
• Collaborate with architects and contractors for seamless integration.
• Prepare specifications, schedules, and tender documents.
• Conduct site visits to monitor progress and adherence to design.
• Manage timelines and budgets to ensure profitability and timely delivery.
• Mentor junior designers and foster development.
• Stay updated on trends, materials, and new technologies.

Skills

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

Leadership

Client relations

Education

Degree in Interior Design

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Adobe Photoshop

3ds Max

Job description

Our client, a highly creative and acclaimed interior design studio, is seeking a Lead Interior Designer with a passion for commercial and hospitality spaces to join their team in the vibrant heart of Sandton, Gauteng . This senior role involves conceptualizing, developing, and executing innovative interior design solutions that are both aesthetically stunning and highly functional. You will lead design projects from inception through to completion, manage client relationships, and mentor a talented team of designers. This is an exceptional opportunity to leave your mark on prestigious projects within South Africa's premier business and lifestyle hub. Our client is renowned for its sophisticated design philosophy and fosters a collaborative, inspiring work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of interior design schemes for commercial (offices, retail) and hospitality (hotels, restaurants) projects.
• Create innovative and aesthetically compelling design proposals, including mood boards, 3D visualizations, and detailed drawings.
• Manage client relationships, presenting design concepts and ensuring client satisfaction throughout the project.
• Oversee the selection of materials, finishes, furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E).
• Collaborate with architects, project managers, and contractors to ensure seamless integration of interior designs.
• Prepare detailed specifications, schedules, and tender documentation.
• Conduct site visits to oversee installation progress and ensure design intent is realized.
• Manage project timelines and budgets effectively, ensuring profitability and timely delivery.
• Mentor and guide junior interior designers, fostering their creative and technical development.
• Stay current with design trends, innovative materials, and new technologies in the interior design industry.

Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Interior Design or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in interior design, with a strong portfolio showcasing commercial and hospitality projects.
• Proven experience in leading design projects and managing client expectations.
• High proficiency in industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and the Adobe Creative Suite.
• Excellent understanding of FF&E sourcing, procurement, and specification.
• Strong spatial planning, conceptual thinking, and aesthetic sensibilities.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work under pressure.
• Strong leadership qualities and team collaboration skills.
• Knowledge of building codes and accessibility standards relevant to commercial and hospitality interiors.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary package, reflecting your expertise and leadership capabilities.
• Opportunity to work on prestigious and high-profile projects in Sandton .
• A creative, collaborative, and inspiring studio environment.
• Professional development opportunities and support for continued learning.
• Contribution towards professional body memberships.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Regular team social events and workshops.
• Access to a curated library of design resources and supplier networks.