Design Manager

About the role

We are seeking an experienced design professional with a strong background in architectural and workplace strategy to lead the development, management, and evolution of global design standards and guidelines. This role is responsible for ensuring consistency across the company’s global portfolio while supporting innovation and adaptability to changing business needs. The position combines strategic design thinking, program management, and cross-functional collaboration to maintain a comprehensive global guidelines system and support workplace design excellence.

Responsibilities

• Global Guidelines Development & Management (50-60% of role after initial ramp-up):
  • Platform & System Administration: Lead the program management of the website transition from the vendors, ensuring seamless migration and enhanced functionality; Serve as primary administrator for the platform, managing updates, corrections, and ongoing system optimization; Remediate legacy content inconsistencies and errors from previous Front Office and Tech & Ops contributions; Maintain and update design guidelines application processes, including managing exceptions based on line of business requests.
  • Standards Development & Coordination: Program manage the development and implementation of new and revised guidelines across multiple areas including, but not limited to: Client Center Guidelines; Design & Build reduced Guidelines for local leadership teams; Line of Business and Select Guidelines; Environmental Graphic Design (EGD) Guidelines; Elevator Lobby Guidelines; Good/Better/Best tiered standards; Hydration station Guidelines; Wellness, Lactation, Medical, and Prayer room standards.
  • Content Enhancement & Documentation: Compile comprehensive furniture, finishes, and lighting specifications (cut sheets) with cost data organized by region; Develop standardized deliverable examples including furniture packages for Architect of Record (AoR) use; Create and maintain Architect Onboarding presentation materials; Coordinate amenities metrics and space allocation percentages with the Amenities Department; Manage integration of sustainability content and updates; Maintain references to strategic partners' standards (Engineering, Resilience, Technology, A/V, Security, etc.).
• Research & Development / Sample Coordination (20-25% of role):
  • Material Library Management: Support the Global Design team in maintaining a relevant, organized, and forward-looking material and sample library; Review and categorize existing samples, distinguishing between active-use materials and research-focused specimens; Organize and archive research materials, photos, and insights from international design events and industry visits.
  • Innovation & Vendor Research: Conduct proactive research into emerging products, finishes, and vendors to expand design