Jobs · Washington

Director - Interior Design

DAHLIN Architecture | Planning | Interiors · Bellevue, WA · Yesterday
Hybrid$163k/yrFull-time

Job Summary

The Director – Interior Design will serve as DAHLIN's market ambassador for the Pacific Northwest Interior Design sector, helping strengthen the firm's reputation, expand its client portfolio, and drive sustainable revenue growth through strategic relationships and market leadership.

What You'll Do

  • Develop and execute DAHLIN's Interior Design business development strategy for the Pacific Northwest, aligned with firmwide growth initiatives.

  • Leverage an established network ("book of business") to generate new client relationships and project opportunities.

  • Lead business development efforts focused on interior design in collaboration with architectural leaders and the firm’s marketing team.

  • Build relationships with developers, owners, municipalities, brokers, consultants, contractors, and industry influencers.

  • Represent DAHLIN at industry organizations, conferences, speaking engagements, and community events.

  • Develop annual market development plans identifying target clients, market sectors, revenue opportunities, and strategic initiatives.

  • Develop and maintain executive-level relationships with developers, ownership groups, investors, and strategic partners to expand DAHLIN's market share throughout the Pacific Northwest.

  • Build and lead executive-level meetings with owners, investors, and development teams.

  • Act as a trusted advisor by understanding client business goals and aligning DAHLIN's services accordingly.

  • Ensure exceptional client experience from pursuit through project completion.

  • Lead major pursuit strategies and Go/No-Go decision-making.

  • Partner with Marketing and technical teams to position DAHLIN competitively.

  • Utilize interior design and architectural expertise to engage clients in meaningful discussions regarding design solutions and project delivery.

  • Provide technical insight that builds client confidence and differentiates DAHLIN from competitors.

  • Partner with practice leaders to position DAHLIN's design expertise as a competitive differentiator during client pursuits.

  • Monitor interior design trends and competitive market conditions to identify emerging opportunities.

  • Foster a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive team environment that supports engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement.

  • Provide coaching, technical guidance, and professional development opportunities that help team members grow and perform at their highest potential.

  • Establish clear performance expectations and promote open communication to align individual contributions with firm goals.

  • Mentor interior designers and project leaders in business development and client engagement.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Interior Design or Architecture.
  • Certified Interior Designer (CID) preferred.
  • 10+ years of progressively increasing management and leadership experience within highly regarded design firms.
  • 10+ years of successful business development experience.
  • Experience working in the Pacific Northwest.
  • Must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States without any restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience leading complex pursuit strategies and negotiating professional service agreements.
  • Excellent presentation, communication, and executive relationship-building skills.

Leadership Competencies

  • Demonstrates genuine humility while possessing strong professional confidence.
  • Comfortable engaging in healthy conflict rather than avoiding difficult conversations.
  • Values team success above personal recognition.
  • Naturally seeks clarity before consensus.
  • Believes culture is measurable, manageable, and every bit as important as financial performance.
  • Holds peers accountable with respect and courage.
  • Enjoys building trust before building process.

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