Design Studio Director

Job Details

Description

The Director plays a key role in driving profitability, enhancing the customer experience, and maintaining the studio’s reputation as a leader in luxury retail design. Success in this role requires strong leadership, business acumen, and the ability to foster a collaborative and high-performing team culture.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee daily operations of the design studio, ensuring optimal use of personnel, equipment, and inventory.
• Analyze product performance and design trends to inform merchandising and layout decisions.
• Approve final design elements including furniture, finishes, and spatial layouts to maintain brand standards.
• Lead the development and execution of the Billie Arthur Trade Program.
• Plan and manage studio-hosted events such as workshops, classes, networking functions, and product launches.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including partnerships with real estate agents, trade professionals, and potential clients.
  
  

Team Management

• Create and manage work schedules for all design studio associates.
• Provide ongoing coaching and feedback to foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture.
• Streamline communication across departments to ensure alignment and efficiency.
• Develop and implement a scalable business plan to support studio expansion into new markets.
  
  

Customer Experience

• Ensure a personalized and elevated customer experience that reflects the Billie Arthur Brand luxury positioning.
• Deliver exceptional service by resolving issues promptly and maintaining a customer-first approach.
• Monitor and improve customer follow-up processes to ensure satisfaction and retention.
• Integrate technologies that enhance customer journey and overall studio experience.
  
  

Additional Duties

• Perform other responsibilities as assigned to support the studio’s success and strategic goals.
  
  

Qualifications

Required

• Proven leadership experience in a retail, design, or luxury brand environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and motivate diverse teams in a fast-paced, customer-focused setting.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute business plans aligned with brand goals.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills, with a track record of prioritizing effectively under pressure.
  
  

Preferred

• Experience in luxury retail or interior design environments.
• Familiarity with technologies i.e. CRM systems, CAD, design software
• Background in event planning or community engagement initiatives.
  
  

Education And Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Retail Management, Interior Design, or a related field; equivalent professional experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
• Demonstrated success in leading high-performing teams within a retail or design-focused environment.
• Proven ability to drive results in a customer-centric, luxury brand setting.
• Experience aligning store culture and operations with an organization’s mission, vision, and values