Chairperson of Interior Design

Base pay range

$/yr – $/yr

The School of Design educates curious makers in design practice to impact the world around them through the design of our messages, objects, spaces, and systems. We believe that design at its best is a force for good: it connects, enables, sustains, empowers, and humanizes. Across four undergraduate programs and five graduate programs, we explore the expansiveness of this idea.

The BFA and MFA Interior Design programs at Pratt prepare students to engage in critical inquiry of occupiable space through theoretical and applied research, establishing them as global innovators, leaders, and practitioners in the field of interior design. The curriculum addresses emerging and integrative technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, the historical‑contemporary continuum, sustainable practices, and issues of ethical and social responsibility.

The School of Design seeks a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as Chairperson, beginning in July 2026. The Chairperson is responsible for the overall management and future direction of the department’s academic programs, aligning with Pratt’s mission and strategic plan. The selected candidate will report to the Dean of the School of Design and work closely with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary opportunities for students and faculty.

• Oversee all academic programs in the department.
• Supervise and develop the department’s curriculum and educational programs.
• Recruit, supervise, and evaluate faculty and staff, fostering their development.
• Recruit and advise students in the graduate program; collaborate with admissions and the Dean to support student recruitment and academic advising.
• Develop and maintain assessment instruments and practices, including program reviews.
• Oversee the department’s budget, resources, course scheduling, and facilities.
• Establish links to professional organizations and leading practitioners in the field.
• Assist the Dean and Institutional Advancement in fundraising and advancing the program’s profile.
• Work with other chairpersons, academic administration, and faculty to develop shared resources and interdisciplinary curricular and extracurricular programs and events.
• Serve on department, school, and institute committees and represent the department at various meetings and events, both on and off campus.
• Carry out special projects as assigned by the Dean.
• Participate in and assume all other related responsibilities as required.

• MFA or equivalent degree in interior design or a related discipline.
• Established record of teaching in higher education.
• Administrative experience managing or coordinating a team of people, including oversight of facilities and budget, preferably in an academic context.
• Recognized creative scholarship and/or current professional practice in interior design or a related discipline.
• Preferred experience recruiting and building a network of diverse educators and designers.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work with diverse populations and excellent collaborator with management and leadership skills.
• Ability to support diverse student pathways, research, and practice in related fields.

• Letter of intent outlining your interest, administrative and teaching experience, other qualifications, and a vision for the department.
• Statement of alignment of your research, scholarship, and work with the values of Pratt.
• Portfolio of 10 examples of creative/professional work.
• Portfolio of 10 examples of student work.
• Contact information for three professional references.

The committee will begin reviewing applications on February 9, 2026 and will close when the committee moves into final interviews.

Please Note: We are currently unable to support new H‑1B visas for candidates residing outside of the United States.

Employment type:

Full‑time, Administrative.