Sr. Project Design Manager

Sr. Project Design Manager

We are seeking a Senior Design Manager to lead retail design execution and serve as a central point of communication for design and construction projects. This role requires mastery of architectural design principles, Revit, and project management — combined with the ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder prototype workflows from concept through construction. You will work closely with client design teams, approved architects, construction managers, real estate teams, and consultants to deliver high-quality, retail-focused solutions that align with business objectives and exceed client expectations.

• Serve as the primary design point of contact for the client, building a trusted, long-term partnership across retail design and construction teams.
• Communicate design concepts, decisions, and recommendations clearly and confidently to stakeholders at all levels, including senior leadership.
• Translate client business needs into functional, innovative retail solutions, including test fits and space planning recommendations.
• Manage and continuously improve client design standards, proactively recommending updates that reflect evolving retail trends and best practices.
• Set up and facilitate Real Estate Site Approval presentations to deliver best in class design options, including recommendations and a clear analysis of the pros and cons of each option, to internal leadership, operations teams, regulatory agencies, and landlords.

• Oversee all phases of the retail design process, ensuring deliverables are safe, functional, code-compliant, and aesthetically aligned with client prototypes.
• Reviews and analyzes site survey and due diligence information as the basis for developing preliminary designs.
• Coordinates with architectural consultants to develop preliminary planning submittal packages for city review and approval.
• Partner with Construction and Real Estate to successfully manage regional store development pipeline.
• Build effective program and alignment with Development Manager
• Review and approve preliminary space plans and design concepts against IBC, ADA, and applicable local code requirements.
• Maintain rigorous quality control across all design documentation and deliverables.
• Explore and implement innovative retail design solutions, encouraging creative thinking within the project team.

• Act as a primary communicator between the internal client design group, client-approved architects, construction managers, and consultants.
• Proactively manage and problem-solve on-site construction issues affecting design, with a clear understanding of downstream impacts.
• Support vendor relationships and contribute to procurement processes as needed.

• Create, implement, and maintain Revit templates, families, and design assets that support consistent and efficient retail project delivery.
• Champion the adoption of tools that optimize design workflows.
• Build and maintain program infrastructure, including SharePoint sites, Smartsheet project trackers and dashboards, file structure guidelines, construction document review checklists, retail design management process flowcharts, and design RACIs.
• Track data to demonstrate drive for results.
• Stay current on emerging retail design software, technologies, and industry trends.

• Develop and manage project timelines across a portfolio of retail projects with varying scope and complexity.
• Ensure all design processes and standards are clearly documented, communicated to stakeholders, and consistently implemented.
• Partner cross-functionally with project management, facilities, construction, and other internal teams to deliver integrated retail solutions.

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Interior Design from a CIDA or NAAB accredited institution
• 10+ years of professional design experience with demonstrated progression into senior design management roles
• 5+ years of Revit experience in a professional setting
• 5+ years of experience managing complex design and construction projects in a retail environment
• Strong proficiency in architectural drawings, space planning, and retail design concept development
• Working knowledge of IBC and ADA requirements with the ability to review drawings for code compliance
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, SharePoint, and Smartsheet
• Understanding of MEP systems and their integration with architectural design
• Exceptional problem-solving skills with the ability to think critically under pressure
• Proven ability to build trusted relationships with internal teams, external partners, and clients
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to delivering quality outcomes
• Licensure (RA or NCIDQ) preferred but not required

Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance,…