Managing Director/Principal

Managing Director – IA Chicago Studio

IA Interior Architects translates client goals, brand and culture into powerful environments built around people, processes, technologies, and business drivers. Serving diverse global markets, we create high-performance, visually compelling, and sustainable environments that advance our client’s enterprise objectives, foster culture, engage their staff, integrate technology and drive efficiencies. As architects, designers, workplace strategists and environmental specialists in the largest global architecture firm concentrating exclusively on interiors, we help clients articulate and align their business strategies and core values with the dynamic use of space.

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Managing Director to lead our Chicago Studio. This Individual will be responsible for driving strategic growth, operational excellence and team performance. The ideal candidate will have a deep connection and understanding of the design industry, strong leadership skills, and the ability to foster existing clients and develop new business. A strong reputation in the Chicago design and real estate community is vital. This candidate will join an established Studio that has experienced and talented staff, a reputation as a top Design Firm in the Chicago market and has consistently been a top performing Studio within IA. This leader will build on that foundation while looking for new and innovative ways to grow the practice and hire new talent.

Job Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Execute IA’s Firm Goals and Vision
• Ensure the Chicago Studio is aligned with the long term Strategic plan
• Champion design excellence
  
  

Operational Management

• Manage the overall performance of the Chicago Studio, including budgeting, forecasting, accounts receivables, expense monitoring and resource planning
• Effectively manage and direct project management staff, ensuring comprehensive understanding and implementation of operations, policies, and procedures
• Exhibit capability in identifying project risks, working closely with teams to implement action plans to mitigate, reduce or remove project risks for our clients and the company
  
  

Culture

• Mentor and inspire a diverse team of designers, architects and project managers
• Fosters an environment of open communication and mutual respect
• Develops and promotes strong relationships within the studio and throughout the firm
  
  

Client Services / Marketing

• Identify new opportunities and leverage existing relationships to drive and acquire new business
• A solid understanding and connection to the design and real estate industry
• Fosters long-term client relationships with clients and strategic partners
• Participate in business organizations. Maintain relationships with industry associates and professional organizations
  
  

Design & Technical

• Ensures adherence to studio and firm-wide technical standards
  
  

Education & Experience:

Education

• Graduate of architecture, design or business school.
• Licensed architect, with Chicago self-certification, preferred.
• 15 years of comprehensive experience in commercial design /architecture project management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Strong business acumen with experience in management and strategic planning
• Exceptional communication, negotiation and leadership skills
• Focus on growing and developing the business and our staff
• Passion for design and a deep understanding of our industry
  
  

Interior Architects, Inc. (IA) provides equal opportunity in all aspects of recruitment and employment to all persons without regard to their race, color, creed, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital status, nationality, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, uniformed service member and to promote the full realization of equal employment opportunities.