Director of Prototypical Design at The Gettys Group Companies – Chicago, Illinois

The Director is a leader within the prototypical design studio, responsible for driving studio performance across design excellence, team leadership, and business operations. This role ensures the successful delivery of projects while strengthening team culture, client relationships, and overall studio efficiency.

The Director serves as a key connector between studio team members and firm leadership, providing clarity, direction, and support. They lead by example as both a strategic thinker and active project leader, while contributing to the continued evolution of The Gettys Group’s design process and business practices.

Studio Leadership & Operations

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the studio, ensuring alignment with firm-wide goals, financial targets, and design standards
• Oversee project performance across the studio, including quality control, schedule adherence, and financial health
• Monitor project metrics (budget vs. actuals, utilization, billing) and proactively address risks
• Develop and manage monthly staffing plans, including coordination with Manila team members
• Ensure consistent execution of studio processes, while identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and effectiveness

Project & Client Leadership

• Serve as a senior leader on key projects, providing strategic direction and oversight
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and repeat business
• Review and contribute to project scopes, work plans, and fee structures
• Partner with Business Development to support proposals, pitches, and pipeline growth

People Leadership & Development

• Foster a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative team environment
• Mentor and develop team members, supporting career growth and skill development
• Act as a trusted resource for team members, maintaining an open and approachable leadership style
• Identify and address team needs, challenges, and opportunities in a timely manner
• Partner with HR on recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and performance management

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with Director peers and cross-studio partners (Branding, Procurement, BD) to ensure a cohesive client experience
• Support alignment across global teams, including effective integration of Manila resources
• Contribute to the evolution of design processes, tools, and systems that enhance collaboration and delivery

Business Development & Strategy

• Support the development of new business opportunities through client relationships and strategic outreach
• Contribute to studio growth strategies and long-term planning
• Identify opportunities to expand services, improve profitability, and strengthen market position

Administrative & Operational Oversight

• Oversee studio-related administrative functions including time approvals, PTO, and resource planning
• Ensure accurate and timely project reporting and documentation
• Support adoption and effective use of firm systems and tools

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Interior Design or Architecture from a CIDA- or NAAB-accredited program

EXPERIENCE

10+ years of professional experience in interior design, architecture, or related field, with demonstrated leadership experience. Select Service and Brand Standard experience preferred.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Proven leadership at both studio and firm levels
• Strong client relationship management and brand stewardship
• Excellent communication, including presentation, listening, and conflict resolution
• Sound decision-making with accountability for outcomes
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Highly organized with strong time and resource management skills
• Collaborative, team-oriented mindset with a focus on shared success
• Self-directed, proactive, and adaptable
• Willingness to travel as required for client engagement and business development