Director of Interior Design

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Full Time Ama Waterways, LLC, Calabasas, CA, US

30+ days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $ To $ Annually

Position Summary

Ama Waterways is seeking a highly creative, design-driven, and strategically minded Director of Interior Design to lead and define the next evolution of luxury river cruising through elevated onboard interior design experiences, setting a new standard in luxury

This role will own the definition and execution of the aesthetic vision for both fleet refurbishment initiatives and future newbuild programs, ensuring every onboard environment reflects warmth, sophistication, residential comfort, and a refined sense of place.

The Director of Interior Design will partner with executive leadership, external design firms, shipyards, and cross-functional teams to deliver immersive guest experiences that blend operational excellence with emotionally engaging hospitality design. The ideal candidate combines visionary creative instincts with exceptional design leadership and a deep understanding of luxury interiors, guest behavior, and experiential hospitality.

Key Responsibilities

Brand Design Strategy & Standards

• Lead the development of Ama Waterways design philosophy and supporting design standards.
• Document the standards for internal and external audiences.
• Partner with design agencies to bring the standards to life across all projects and guest touchpoints.

Brand & Guest Experience Collaboration

• Partner directly with the Chief Creative & Marketing Officer and the experience design teams to ensure alignment between onboard design initiatives, brand strategy, guest experience objectives, and overall visual consistency across the fleet.
• Translate Ama Waterways’ brand values into immersive physical environments that strengthen emotional connection, guest satisfaction, and premium market positioning.
• Champion the continued evolution of the Ama Waterways guest experience through thoughtful, design-forward, and commercially aligned interior solutions.
• Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Product Development, Procurement, and Technical teams to ensure cohesive execution of all design initiatives.
• Lead the development and execution of refurbishment and enhancement programs across the Ama Waterways fleet.
• Drive the evolution of Ama Waterways’ onboard design identity through boutique-hotel-inspired aesthetics and guest-centric interior experiences.
• Define and direct design concepts that elevate onboard environments through layered materiality, curated lighting, refined detailing, and residential-style comfort.
• Direct the research and selection of materials, finishes, furniture, lighting, fabrics, artwork, and decorative elements appropriate for luxury hospitality and marine environments.
• Oversee mock-ups, sample reviews, and prototype approvals to ensure design quality and consistency.
• Ensure all design solutions balance aesthetics, durability, maintainability, marine compliance, and operational practicality.
• Benchmark emerging trends in luxury hospitality, wellness, residential design, and experiential travel to continually elevate the guest experience.

Newbuild Design Leadership

• Direct and manage external interior designers, architects, and consultants appointed for newbuild projects.
• Define and own the overarching design language and guest experience philosophy for next-generation vessels.
• Lead the review of design packages, drawings, material selections, and specifications to ensure alignment with Ama Waterways’ luxury brand standards and operational requirements.
• Oversee design deliverables, approvals, comments, and…