Director of Architecture and Design

Director of Architecture and Design

Background

Lotus Company is a venture capital and real estate development company with close to $1B of projects in the pipeline. We are seeking to create an architecture and design firm within Lotus (“Lotus Form”) to be overseen by a Director of Architecture and Design (“DAD”) who has residential architecture and design experience, ideally with affordable multifamily projects.

The ideal candidate will be familiar with the real estate development design process and have a passion for creating great places and actively contributing to the long-term ownership of quality assets.

Job Description

The DAD acts on behalf of the owner as an internal architecture and design consultant to ensure that the Company receives the best design services using best industry practices.

The role of DAD requires a combination of design and technical knowledge, communication abilities, and a strong understanding of real estate development. This individual works to design unique and sustainable multifamily projects for its development unit.

This role reports to the Senior Director of Development, and interacts with other team members in acquisitions, construction, and development.

Responsibilities

The Director of Architecture and Design position includes the following responsibilities:

Architectural Leadership:

• Develop and articulate the architectural design strategy aligned with the company's mission and values. 
• Hire and lead the design team in creating innovative and efficient prototype affordable multifamily designs
• Ensure designs meet regulatory standards and incorporate best practices in sustainability and resilience

Team Management:

• Goal is to build a team under the banner of “Lotus Form”
• Recruit, mentor, and manage a team of architects and designers
• Foster a collaborative and creative work environment that encourages growth and excellence
• Set clear goals and expectations, providing guidance and support to achieve them

Technology & Innovation:

• Lead technology adoption and innovation across the design vertical to transform codes, and specifications into standardized design and architecture documents utilized by the team to permit and build the project ensuring coordination with the architectural, structural, and MEP packages
• Integrate AI technology in the development and delivery of new products ensuring code and program requirements compliance
• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies in modular construction
• Drive innovation in design methodologies, materials, and building systems
• Conduct research and pilot projects to advance the company's prototype capabilities

Project Oversight:

• Oversee the design development process from concept through to construction
• Collaborate with the construction and development teams to ensure design feasibility and efficiency
• Manage project budgets and timelines, ensuring deliverables meet development expectations

Required Experience

• Minimum of Ten (10) years in architectural design leadership roles, preferably with multifamily projects.  Exposure to LIHTC projects a plus
• Demonstrated success in managing architectural projects from concept to completion
• Demonstrated success in building and managing a team
• Leadership in architectural design, team management, project oversight, innovation, and client collaboration
• Deep understanding of architectural principles and construction methods
• Exceptional knowledge of the Building Code and architectural details is required
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, MS Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), and/or other relevant design software is required
• Proficiency in 3D Rendering, Animation (V-Ray, Lumion, 3ds Max, Sketchup), and Graphic Design (Photoshop, Illustrator) software will be beneficial.
• Creative thinker with a passion for sustainable and affordable housing solutions
• LEED or other green certification a plus

Required Education

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture or Master’s in architecture from a NAAB Accredited program
• Licensed & registered Architect in the state of Utah

Compensation

Job Type: Full-Time

Pay: DOE, with discretionary bonus and other incentive programs

Location:  215 S. State St., Floor 13, Salt Lake City, UT

Benefits

• Eligibility for Lotus Company’s employee benefit package including health, dental, and vision
• insurance, where eligibility begins 30 days after employment.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) – 15 Days as accrued throughout year.
• 10 Paid Holidays as detailed in Lotus Holiday Calendar.
• 401K enrollment (dollar-for-dollar match for the first 3% of salary differed and 50% contribution for the next 3% of salary deferment – with a minimum 6-month employment required prior to enrollment)
• Eligibility for discounted rental rates at Lotus-owned apartments