Design Standards & Guidelines Manager Job New York New York USA,Design & Architecture

What This Job Involves

Global Guidelines Development & Management (50-60% of role after initial ramp-up)
Platform & System Administration:
Lead the program management of the website transition from the vendors, ensuring seamless migration and enhanced functionality;
Serve as primary administrator for the platform, managing updates, corrections, and ongoing system optimization;
Remediate legacy content inconsistencies and errors from previous Front Office and Tech & Ops contributions;
Maintain and update design guidelines application processes, including managing exceptions based on line of business requests
Standards Development & Coordination:
Program manage the development and implementation of new and revised guidelines across multiple areas including, but not limited to:
Client Center Guidelines, Design & Build reduced Guidelines for local leadership teams, Line of Business and Select Guidelines, Environmental Graphic Design (EGD) Guidelines, Elevator Lobby Guidelines, Good/Better/Best tiered standards, Hydration station Guidelines, Wellness, Lactation, Medical, and Prayer room standards
Content Enhancement & Documentation:
Compile comprehensive furniture, finishes, and lighting specifications (cut sheets) with cost data organized by region;
Develop standardized deliverable examples including furniture packages for Architect of Record (AoR) use;
Create and maintain Architect Onboarding presentation materials;
Coordinate amenities metrics and space allocation percentages with the Amenities Department;
Manage integration of sustainability content and updates;
Maintain references to strategic partners' standards (Engineering, Resilience, Technology, A/V, Security, etc.)
Research & Development / Sample Coordination (20-25% of role):
Material Library Management – Support the Global Design team in maintaining a relevant, organized, and forward‑looking material and sample library;
Review and categorize existing samples, distinguishing between active‑use materials and research‑focused specimens;
Organize and archive research materials, photos, and insights from international design events and industry visits;
Innovation & Vendor Research – Conduct proactive research into emerging products, finishes, and vendors to expand design solutions across all budget categories;
Engage with vendors and collaborate with architects to identify innovative materials and applications;
Program manage prototyping initiatives for new millwork solutions in coordination with the Global Design Team;
Capture and document knowledge from key design industry events and trade shows
Document Control & Administration (15-20% of role):
Archive Management – Lead the review and update of project archives from recent years (1-2 year lookback);
Maintain centralized archive repository systems;
Ensure current project records remain organized, accessible, and up-to-date;
Convert documents to PDF format and manage distribution to stakeholders as requested

Desired Experience & Technical Skills Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or a related design discipline
7-10 years of professional experience in architecture and workplace strategy
Demonstrated experience developing and managing corporate design standards or guidelines
Strong understanding of commercial interior design, workplace strategy, and space planning principles
Proficiency with digital platform administration and content management systems
Advanced knowledge of design documentation, specifications, and industry standards
Familiarity with document management systems such as ACC/Autodesk Construction Cloud and Microsoft Teams
Working knowledge of sustainability frameworks and workplace wellness standards
Strong…