Design Director

Design Director Skip to main content#Design Director page is loaded## Design Director Apply remote type:
On-site locations:
Chicago, ILtime type:
Full time posted on:
Posted Todayjob requisition :
REQ
520508
** JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way**.Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong.  Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

JLL Design seeks an accomplished Design Director to lead creative excellence across our North American interiors practice. This senior leadership role combines strategic vision with hands-on design expertise to deliver transformative workplace environments that elevate both client success and firm reputation. This position requires a seasoned design professional with deep workplace expertise who can balance bold creative vision with pragmatic execution.

You'll drive creative direction while ensuring delivery excellence across multiple projects and teams. As a client-facing leader, you'll translate business objectives into compelling spatial solutions, mentor design teams, and maintain accountability for design quality and performance across all deliverables. Active participation in business development is essential to this role. You'll inspire teams and clients through strategic thinking and design excellence, partnering closely with business development, project management, and technical disciplines to ensure alignment with client objectives and business goals.
*
* Qualifications & Skills:

*** 15+ years’ experience working on commercial Interior Design with significant focus on workplace environments through design and consultancy.
* Bachelor's or master’s degree in interior design, Interior Architecture, or Architecture from an accredited program.
* NCIDQ certification required. LEED AP, WELL AP, or Fitwel Ambassador credentials strongly preferred.
* Demonstrated portfolio of completed workplace projects showcasing design leadership on projects of varying scale and complexity.
* Proven track record leading design for Fortune 500 companies, corporate headquarters, or similar high-profile workplace projects.
* Expert-level proficiency in space planning, programming, and workplace strategy principles.
* Advanced knowledge of building systems, construction methods, and materials applications.
* Comprehensive understanding of accessibility codes and life safety requirements.
* Proficiency with design software including Revit, AutoCAD, Sketch Up, Adobe Creative Suite, and visualization tools.
* Familiarity with workplace data analytics platforms and occupancy planning tools.
* Exceptional leadership presence with ability to inspire teams and influence senior stakeholders.
* Strong project management skills including budgeting and scheduling.
* Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously while maintaining design quality and meeting deadlines.
* Experience mentoring junior staff and building high-performing teams.
* Outstanding verbal and written communication skills with ability to articulate complex design concepts to diverse audiences.
* Polished presentation skills with experience presenting to C-suite executives and large groups.
* Strong facilitation and consensus-building capabilities.
* Ability to prepare compelling design narratives and documentation.
* Understanding of commercial real estate fundamentals, workplace economics, and client business drivers.
* Awareness of competitive landscape and market trends affecting workplace design sector.
* Established industry relationships and professional network.
* Entrepreneurial attitude - must be self-motivated and self-managed and can multi-task and organize several projects at a given time.
* Able to meet concurrent deadlines, sometimes under pressure and tight deadlines.
* Seeks out and…