The client is a legacy developer with a £5 billion global portfolio and a core focus on hospitality. Working alongside prestigious international operators, the role will deliver hotel and mixed-use developments primarily across the UK and Europe. In addition to their commercial portfolio, the business also includes a private residential development division.
This newly created Design Director role will lead the design and oversee execution of hotel projects, with two major live schemes currently underway in Europe. Projects vary in size and scale, from full fit-outs to sensitive refurbishments of existing sites.
The Design Director will work closely with the senior leadership team to develop innovative, contextually driven schemes that align with both the client's vision and the operator's brand guidelines. There is no imposed house style — this role suits a design leader who can either innovate or stay true to existing brand frameworks, as required.
The majority of the architectural and interior design work is currently outsourced to specialist studios in the UK and Europe. Internally, the role is supported by two designers — one focused on hotels and the other on restaurants — as well as a procurement team. The intention is to bring more of the design capability in-house, the Design Director will be responsible for strategically planning and establishing a new internal design team to fulfil the evolving needs of the business.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the design and development of new, innovative hotel and hospitality concepts across the UK and Europe.
Oversee the delivery and execution of projects, including regular on-site presence.
Collaborate with operators, consultants, and internal stakeholders throughout the lifecycle of each project.
Manage and guide internal design resources and oversee external studios and consultants.
Present design strategies and concepts at executive level.
Travel across Europe will be required, especially during key project stages.
Required Experience:
Background in interior design or architecture, with proven hospitality project experience.
Strong space planning and layout design skills.
Ability to produce mood boards and conceptual visuals as needed.
Strong leadership and stakeholder management experience.
Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to coordinate internal and external teams effectively.
Clear and confident communicator, comfortable working across multiple teams and disciplines.
Able to think both strategically (macro) and detail-oriented (micro).
Location & Working Style:
London-based office (Central), with flexible working policy.
Travel required across Europe (1–2 times/month depending on project stage).
This is a unique opportunity to join a respected, design-forward developer and have a long-term
strategic impact on high-quality hospitality schemes across the region.