Position Overview:

The Design Lead fosters collaboration both internally with our talented roster of designers and externally with our valued stakeholders. This individual will work directly with our Studio Design Leaders, overseeing every stage of the design process—from initial concepts to construction documentation, team management and design implementation. You will be responsible for crafting compelling visual presentations, articulating Curioso’s vision, and leading a team through all project phases, including client interactions and consultant coordination.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

Design:

• Collaborate with managing partners and Studio Design Leaders to organize priorities across both US and Mexico studios

• Collaborate with Design Principal, Studio Design Leaders, and Studio Orchestrator to make sure our projects are adequately and appropriately staffed

• Establish design vision, goals, budgets, and schedules for interior design projects. Lead project teams through each phase of design, ensuring the delivery of excellent design and cohesive, thoughtful work 

• Establish a collaborative environment for project teams, providing high-level design direction and/or solutions with thoughtful consideration and input from designers

• Mentor the design team, encouraging creative innovation and inspiring performance excellence

• Ensure project teams are progressing steadily and deadlines are met

• Identify and develop tools to streamline workflows and enhance overall efficiency

• Develop relationships with clients and brands to strengthen existing connections and build new business opportunities

• Present design concepts, narratives, and progress to internal and external audiences

• Communicate with clients in a clear, timely manner and report pertinent updates to Studio Design Leaders and Project Teams

Project Execution:

• Interpret and evaluate client requirements, ensuring all project needs are met

• Organize and direct the workflow of project team members to achieve results, particularly on larger and more complex projects

• Coordinate detailed design solutions, addressing function requirements and meeting client project design criteria. Identify instances of additional services/project work out of scope when applicable

Technical Coordination and Quality Assurance:

• Demonstrate a complete understanding of the studio design process, building upon established design strategies within this framework

• Assist in design and technical coordination among disciplines such as interior design, architecture, engineering, and construction

• Provide on-site direction when needed to ensure that the execution of design concepts aligns with client and Curioso standards

Team Development and Mentorship:

• Direct, organize and mentor staff, providing guidance and mentorship to junior team members

• Ensure project teams are adequately equipped with appropriate resources for the effective execution of design documentation

• Ensure project teams have a positive work environment that is conducive to collaborative, efficient work

Software/Skill sets:

Must be proficient in:

• Revit

• AutoCAD

• Sketchup/Enscape

• Bluebeam

• Adobe Creative Suite (INDD, PSD)

• Microsoft/Google office 

• Hand sketching

• Fluent in English and Spanish
  

Not required but beneficial skills:

• 3D Max and/or Lumion

• SpecSources, Designspec or similar FFE specification programs

• Sketches, Concepts, Procreate or Morphofolio trace (tablet apps)

• Project management methodologies such as CMap, Asana

Experience Level:

8-10 years working in an architectural or interior design studio, hospitality-focused preferred.

Location:

Must be located in Merida, Yucatán, Mexico, or willing to relocate.