Design Manager - Interiors - Senior Level

At Gensler, we design for impact—helping organizations innovate through spaces that drive performance, culture, and long-term value. Our work transforms how companies operate by creating environments that foster collaboration, well-being, and meaningful experiences. We are seeking a Senior Design Manager with a proven track record of leading complex, large-scale corporate interiors projects and cultivating strong client relationships. This role is ideal for a strategic leader who thrives at the intersection of design excellence, business development, and team leadership. Your Role As a Senior Design Manager at Gensler, you will operate with a high degree of autonomy and accountability, leading complex, high-impact projects from concept through completion. You will serve as a trusted advisor to clients—owning key relationships while driving both project success and business growth. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, provide strategic direction, and ensure design excellence while maintaining financial performance and delivery rigor. What You Will Do Project & Design Leadership Serve as the lead design manager for complex, large-scale corporate interiors projects; managing large-scale, high-impact work (e.g., $1M+ fee, 100K+ SF, multi-phase or multi-stakeholder projects, or multiple concurrent large projects)Drive overall project vision, design excellence, and successful delivery across all phasesLead multiple concurrent projects, including high-value and multi-phase engagementsEnsure alignment between design intent, client goals, and execution Client Leadership & Relationship Management Act as the primary point of contact and trusted advisor to senior client stakeholdersBuild, grow, and maintain long-term client relationshipsProvide account leadership (CR ownership) for key clients, identifying opportunities for expansionNavigate complex stakeholder environments and facilitate decision-making Business Development & Strategy Generate new business opportunities and expand existing client relationshipsLead and contribute to proposals, interviews, and pursuit strategiesPartner with Marketing on lead generation, positioning, and storytellingSupport sector growth initiatives (Tech Workplace, Advanced Tech, Critical Facilities, R&D/Labs) Financial & Operational Management Own project financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and profitabilityDevelop and manage project schedules, work plans, and resource allocationOversee preparation and negotiation of proposals, contracts, and consultant agreementsReview project accounting and manage billing processes Team Leadership & Talent Development Build, lead, and inspire high-performing, multidisciplinary project teamsProvide mentorship, coaching, and career development for junior and mid-level staffContribute to recruiting and team growth effortsFoster a collaborative, high-performance studio culture Technical Excellence & Delivery Oversight Guide coordination, documentation, and delivery to ensure quality and consistencyOversee quality assurance and technical review of project documentationEnsure compliance with building codes, accessibility standards, and project requirementsDrive innovation in design process, tools, and delivery methods Your Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or higher in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field15+ years of design management experience within an architecture or design firmProven success leading large, complex projects and multidisciplinary teamsStrong client management and business development experienceExpertise across all phases of project deliveryAdvanced skills in space planning, programming, and FF&EStrong knowledge of building systems, codes, and accessibility requirementsExperience delivering financially successful projectsDemonstrated leadership and mentorship capabilitiesSustainable design experience preferred (LEED or similar)Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office For consideration, please submit a cover letter, resume, and portfolio in PDF format showcasing your experience and design capabilities. The base salary range is estimated between $150,000 – $180,000, plus bonuses and benefits, and is contingent on experience and qualifications. Life at Gensler At Gensler, we believe excellence in design is fueled by a culture that values creativity, diversity, and well-being. From curated exhibits to wellness initiatives, our offices reflect the passion of our people. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, wellness programs, 401(k), profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and biannual bonus opportunities. We also invest in your growth through licensure support, exam reimbursement, and ongoing professional development. As part of the firm’s commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, we reimburse tuition for certain eligible programs or classes. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future.