HKS, Inc.
Studio Design Leader – HKS, Inc. – Los Angeles, CA
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Overview
HKS Los Angeles is seeking a Studio Design Leader to join our team. Responsible for advancing Design Excellence in the studio through critical design dialog and evaluating studio work against the strategic plan.
Responsibilities
Supports all project design leaders and teams, evaluating studio work against the strategic plan in collaboration with studio and office leadership.
Collaborates in strategic planning and facilitates communication across practices, such as vetting studio marketing strategy and allocating needed resources.
Ensures project teams develop measurable standards for design enterprise integration, innovation, and impact.
Collaborates on project process, vision, goals, service delivery, work environment and documentation.
Handles initial marketing stages through construction, including programming client needs, conceptual design, schematic design, design development and delivery.
Leads the team through all phases by guiding, advising and mentoring designers, developing design direction, and leading critiques.
Serves as the primary interface with clients, building and strengthening connections through a comprehensive understanding of their mission, goals, policies, needs, and progress.
Manages client expectations, team communication, and consultant coordination in collaboration with project team leadership.
Monitors staffing, utilization and growth management across the studio, recommending adjustments when necessary.
Provides technical expertise, resolving complex problems and helping team members grow.
Reviews concept development and, with Studio Practice Leader and Regional Design Director, inspires the design team to produce high‑quality documentation and achieve client satisfaction.
Partners with Office Director, acting as liaison between firm leadership and staff, communicating initiatives and priorities.
Incorporates HKS strategic priorities, such as including Design Measures in client solutions.
Maintains a ONE Firm mindset, minimizing sector and operational variables in collaboration with Regional Design Director.
Integrates HKS services, expertise and innovation in all projects, seeking opportunities to adopt best practices, sustainable design solutions and subject‑matter expertise strategically and efficiently.
Exhibits persuasion and negotiation skills on critical issues.
Qualifications
Accredited professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related field, or equivalent years of education or experience.
Licensure or certification in chosen field preferred.
15+ years of experience, including a proven leadership role with success in both project work and talent/resource development.
Significant experience in the practice area of the studio.
Sustainable design accreditation preferred.
Familiarity with design‑related software and vision tools.
Experience with MS Office Suite, Microsoft Project and Microsoft Teams.
Proficiency in logistics management, connecting people and resources efficiently.
Track record in directing and leading design teams from business development presentations through strategy and concept development.
Proven success building, nurturing and fostering new client relationships.
Excellent presentation, leadership, communication and relationship‑management skills.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Collaborative leadership style that promotes an interdisciplinary design approach and philosophy.
Clear, concise, professional verbal and written communication.
Problem‑solving ability and innovative solution application.
Travel required.
Base Salary Range
$130,000 – $160,000 annually (Los Angeles locations only).
Benefits
Health, dental and vision care coverage; 401(k) plans; life & AD&D insurance; short/long‑term disability; paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, vacation); and additional benefits for eligible employees.
EEO Statement
HKS is an EEO/AA Employer: M/F/Disabled/Veteran.
Application
Apply via the HKS careers portal. Internal applicants should submit through the Internal Careers Portal. Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at HKS, Inc. by 2×.
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