Director of Integrative Design

Description

JLG Architects is currently seeking qualified applicants for the position of Director of Integrative Design to advance the firm’s integrative design methodology, elevate the JLG design brand, and foster a culture of design excellence both within and outside the organization, collectively ensuring that JLG pioneers a way forward amid rapid and constant change in our company and in our world. This role oversees a broad team of integrative design leaders, including architecture, interior design, sustainability, and design technology specialists, in the pursuit of solutions that elevate expectations and outcomes for our company, our clients, and our communities.

Why JLG? Because we work together to empower the future of architecture and design, driving dynamic solutions that make lives better. We are employee owners, collectively invested in the success of our clients, communities, and each other. Our candidates bring a diverse background of talent, a spirit of collaboration, and an enduring desire to help others thrive. At JLG, you will find inspiration to ignite change, challenge the status quo, and build resilient foundations for the next generation of education, healthcare, sports, and civic, cultural, and commercial service.  

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer 

Responsibilities:

• Advance an integrative design methodology. Adopting the AIA Framework for Design Excellence, orchestrate an integrative design methodology that cuts across all disciplines and all Practice Studios through training and education, internal and external communication, infrastructure and talent development, discipline as well as inspiration, and rigorous accountability.
• Develop, implement, and direct design processes aligned to the AIA Framework for Design Excellence.
• Oversee the integration of design across all project phases, from conceptual design through construction documentation and completion.
• Ensure that integrated design team members contribute to delivering projects that meet schedule, scope, and budget requirements while maintaining high standards.
• Engage with project design leadership to monitor and manage project risks, identifying and addressing potential issues proactively.
• Govern relevant internal processes, including design reviews and other quality control procedures to ensure design consistency and excellence across all projects.
• Provide constructive feedback to team members to drive continuous improvement.
• Building on a solid foundation of design excellence, lead, challenge, and inspire our teams and clients to embrace innovative solutions that elevate experiences, measurably improve outcomes, and honor the firm’s steadfast commitment to our clients’ functional and economic performance parameters.
• Lead staff reviews and mentoring and development of integrative design team, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Oversee recruitment and interviews of design talent.
• Stay ahead of industry developments and trends, evaluating and applying processes, tools, and technologies to enhance project outcomes.
• Lead the pursuit of external professional awards, publications, and presentations that build JLG’s recognition for design excellence.
• Collaborate with JLG Practice Studio Leaders and management to advance company goals and objectives and ensure operational effectiveness.
• Advance the development of internal training sessions, internal design competitions and Design Excellence awards. 
• Foster a culture of design excellence. 
• Through inspirational, authentic, and accessible leadership, engage and energize stakeholders both within and outside the organization, keeping us all connected to design as it evolves in the world around us. 
• Contribute to the firm’s business development efforts by participating in proposal writing, client presentations, thought leadership, and networking events.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and ensuring their vision is reflected in the design.
• Preserve design excellence as the heart of our organization through firm-wide communication and other cultural initiatives. 
• Participate in targeted professional outreach and engagement, including industry, academic, and community channels.
• All other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Masters or Bachelors of Architecture from an NAAB accredited university.
• Current architecture license.
• 10-15 years of professional experience with a proven track record in leading multiple large-scale project designs, teams, and clients 
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, critical thinking and design skills, with the ability to formulate design solutions that elevate the JLG brand