Design Manager - Architecture

About the role

We are currently seeking a Design Manager to be part of our Buildings Division in our Tampa office. At WGI, you will find talented, passionate associates providing exceptional service in collaborative, team-driven environments, all while having fun and enjoying the work they do. We work to stay ahead of the curve by investing in the latest tools and technology. As one of the nation’s top consulting firms, we consistently strive to promote efficiency, cultivate a culture our associates can proudly embrace, and empower our associates to advance their career growth at WGI, and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Execute projects within and expand the WGI’s presence within the aviation market.
• Serve as a strategic leader responsible for marketing and business development, client relationships, project leadership, and market expansion within the aviation sector.
• Lead multidisciplinary design teams to ensure projects achieve operational functionality, design excellence, and client objectives.
• Oversee design quality and technical execution across all phases of project delivery, ensuring consistency with firm standards and industry best practices.
• Direct multidisciplinary design teams to ensure projects achieve operational functionality, design excellence, and client objectives.
• Guide teams through complex stakeholder engagement processes including airport authorities, airlines, regulatory agencies, and community partners.
• Lead executive-level project presentations, workshops, and design reviews with clients, governing boards, and public agencies.
• Support successful project execution by mentoring project managers and senior design staff in leadership, delivery strategy, and client management best practices.
• Provide oversight of overall project delivery, quality control, budgeting, scheduling, and client satisfaction.
• Lead design implementation of all applicable FAA, TSA, ADA, and local regulatory requirements.
• Mentor and develop architecture and design staff within the aviation practice.
• Collaborate with engineering, planning, interiors, and construction administration teams to deliver integrated solutions.
• Aid in recruiting and building a high-performing aviation team.
• Promote a culture of innovation, collaboration, and design excellence.
• Contribute to the strategic growth of the aviation market sector for the Buildings division.
• Develop and execute marketing and business development strategies to expand market share and strengthen client relationships.
• Maintain and expand relationships with key aviation clients, industry partners, and stakeholders.
• Represent the firm at industry conferences, trade organizations, and networking events including AAAE, ACC, ACI, regional aviation associations, and others.
• Collaborate with firm leadership to establish annual revenue goals, growth targets, and market initiatives.
• Help define long-term vision and positioning for the aviation practice.
• Monitor industry trends, funding opportunities, and emerging technologies impacting aviation infrastructure.
• Support firmwide strategic initiatives and cross-market collaboration opportunities.

Requirements

• Professional bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture from an accredited institution.
• Registered Architect (RA) license required with NCARB certification for reciprocal state licensure.
• Minimum 12-15 years of professional tenure with significant aviation project experience.
• Proven track record of business development and client management within the aviation industry.
• Experience leading complex aviation projects and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong understanding of airport operations, FAA requirements, and aviation industry standards.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and presentation skills.
• Ability to travel as needed.
• Existing relationships with airport authorities and aviation stakeholders preferred.
• Experience with medium and large-hub airport projects desired.
• Experience working within a growing or entrepreneurial A/E environment.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• LTD & STD
• Life Insurance
• 401k with match
• PTO
• Holidays
• HSA with company contribution
• Pet insurance
• Employee assistance program

Pay

Competitive salary.

Schedule

Full-time.