Role Overview
The Design Director is responsible for leading and managing the design studio, overseeing the delivery of high-quality design solutions across international projects. This role combines creative leadership, studio management, and project oversight, ensuring design excellence while maintaining operational efficiency.
As SOG Design is not a registered architectural practice in Singapore, the role focuses on concept design, design development, coordination, and delivery in collaboration with external consultants and local partners where required.
Key Responsibilities
1. Design Leadership
- Lead the creative direction of projects from concept through design development
- Ensure high standards of design quality, innovation, and consistency across all projects
- Provide guidance and mentorship to the design team, fostering a strong design culture
- Review and approve design deliverables, presentations, and client submissions
2. Studio Management
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the design studio, including workload allocation and resource planning
- Manage team performance, development, and staffing needs in collaboration with HR
- Establish and maintain efficient workflows, processes, and quality control standards
- Drive collaboration across offices (Singapore, Vietnam, Philippines, etc.)
3. Project Oversight
- Supervise multiple international projects across various stages
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with client expectations
- Coordinate with external consultants (e.g. local architects, engineers, BIM teams) to ensure compliance with local regulations
- Support project teams in resolving technical and design challenges
4. Client & Stakeholder Management
- Act as a key point of contact for clients on design matters
- Lead design presentations and pitches when required
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, partners, and collaborators
5. Technical & BIM Coordination
- Oversee integration of BIM and technical design within projects
- Ensure proper coordination between concept design and technical delivery teams
- Work closely with BIM specialists to align design intent with technical execution
6. Business & Strategic Contribution
- Support management in business development initiatives, including proposals and competitions
- Contribute to positioning SOG Design in the international market
- Identify opportunities to expand design capabilities and studio growth
Requirements
- Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related field
- Minimum 10-15 years of relevant experience in design consultancy or architecture/interior firms
- Strong portfolio demonstrating concept design and project leadership
- Experience managing teams and leading design studios
- Familiarity with international projects and cross-border coordination
- Strong understanding of BIM and technical coordination processes
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
Key Attributes
- Strong design sensibility and creative leadership
- Practical and hands-on approach to studio and team management
- Ability to balance design excellence with commercial and operational considerations
- Collaborative and culturally adaptable (given multi-country teams)
- Strategic thinker with a growth mindset
