Director of Interior Design

Meet the company: Our client, a growing interior design studio, is seeking a Director of Design to join their collaborative, high-performing team. This role is responsible for driving design excellence, technical quality, and team performance across projects. You’ll serve as the technical authority and quality control lead for Construction Documentation (CD), while also guiding creative direction and mentoring design teams. This is a highly visible leadership position with direct impact on project success, client satisfaction, and studio standards. This role is fully on-site near San Mateo, CA. About the role and your impact: Design Leadership & Execution Lead and guide design teams from concept through construction Ensure consistent, high-quality design aligned with client vision, budget, and brand standards Contribute to and elevate overall design direction across projects Technical Oversight & Documentation Serve as lead CD set reviewer Ensure accuracy, completeness, code compliance, and consultant coordination Establish and uphold documentation standards, processes, and quality benchmarks Identify risks early and ensure projects are fully coordinated prior to permit submission Team Leadership & Mentorship Mentor and develop designers, strengthening technical and creative capabilities Provide clear direction, feedback, and support across project teams Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing team environment Client & Project Management Partner with clients, consultants, and internal teams to deliver successful outcomes Support presentations, design reviews, and project strategy Balance design intent with budget, schedule, and constructability Travel to project sites (approx. 20%) Studio Contribution Support business goals, staffing plans, and project resourcing Contribute to process improvements and studio standards Participate in business development and client relationship building What you'll bring: 10+ years of experience in interior design, with leadership on large-scale projects (preferably within multifamily developments) Strong expertise in Construction Documentation and CD set review Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously Experience mentoring and leading design teams Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or related field NCIDQ certification or architectural license preferred Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp Strong knowledge of FF&E, materials, lighting, and construction methods