Studio Director

Job Title: Studio Director Company: Design for the PPL Location: Spokane, WA Job Type: Contract (with opportunity for extension or permanent placement) About Us At Design for the PPL, we believe design should be deeply personal, wildly creative, and refreshingly functional. Based in the heart of Spokane, we’re a design-driven studio specializing in large-scale architectural builds, luxury residential interiors, retail environments, and curated furnishings. Our downtown showroom and online platform showcase our refined, soulful aesthetic—rooted in storytelling, craftsmanship, and bold vision. About the Role We’re seeking a Studio Director to lead our design studio with energy, strategy, and a creative edge. This is a leadership role focused on team management, operational excellence, and high-level project oversight. The ideal candidate is both a visionary and a doer—someone who can balance design leadership with day-to-day operations and client management. Key Responsibilities • Studio Leadership & Operations: Oversee daily operations of the studio, ensuring smooth workflow across teams and projects. Maintain studio culture, process, and pace while leading with empathy and accountability. • Team Management: Mentor and manage a multi-disciplinary team of designers, project managers, and support staff. Lead regular team meetings, provide clear communication and direction, and support professional development. • Creative Oversight: Guide the creative direction of the studio, reviewing and elevating work to meet brand standards and client expectations. Maintain a hands-on approach in concepting, design development, and storytelling. • Client & Project Management: Serve as the main point of contact for key clients, overseeing timelines, deliverables, and budgets. Ensure all projects are delivered on time, on brand, and on budget. • Business Development: Support strategic growth by nurturing client relationships, identifying opportunities, and helping to position the studio within the industry and community. • Systems & Strategy: Implement processes that enhance efficiency, quality, and collaboration. Monitor studio performance and contribute to short- and long-term strategic planning. Requirements • Proven leadership experience in a design-focused studio or creative environment • Strong background in interior design, architecture, or a related creative field • Excellent organizational, communication, and team management skills • Ability to manage multiple priorities and multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment • Strong creative sensibility with an understanding of current trends and timeless aesthetics • Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead high-volume, high-impact projects • A balance of creative vision, business acumen, and hands-on leadership Bonus Points • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite • Experience in high-end residential or retail design • Familiarity with showroom operations, sourcing, and trade programs • Previous work in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial studio environment • Passion for soulful design, elevated materiality, and architectural storytelling Benefits Overview • Competitive wages, based on experience and contract scope • Health Insurance coverage • Paid Time Off (PTO) • Parking Benefits • Studio Amenities (kitchen, materials library, inspiration wall, and more) • Collaborative, creatively driven studio culture • Studio Culture & Events: seasonal celebrations, team field trips, and vendor lunches • Flexibility to accommodate project phases — weekly hours may fluctuate up to 40+ depending on workload and deadlines To Apply Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a short statement about your design philosophy to info@designfortheppl.com. We carefully review all applications and will be in touch with candidates who are a strong match.