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DESIGN OPERATIONS MANAGER

Charleston, SC

Summary

PWD Studio is expanding and seeking support for our interior design team. Our Design Operations Manager will lead the operational management of luxury residential and commercial interior design projects at PWD Studio. This role sits at the intersection of client experience, project execution, and team leadership.

You will be responsible for overseeing the full design lifecycle, from initial client interaction through to final installation, ensuring excellence at every phase.

This is a leadership role that requires strong operational expertise, fluency in the design process, and a commitment to upholding the firm’s creative standards. You will act as a liaison between the Founder & Creative Director, designers, and clients, ensuring project execution and top-tier service.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Project Oversight

Simultaneously oversee all design projects from concept to completion across residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors.

Ensure all project communications, documentation, presentations, and deliverables are complete, accurate, and reflect design excellence.

Lead the development and maintenance of project budgets, proposals, schedules, and scope documentation.

Review and redline design proposals, presentations, technical drawings, and renderings, ensuring they align with project vision and client expectations.

Communicate directly with clients to arrange meetings, implement feedback, and share design materials.

Translate creative direction from the Studio Principal into actionable plans and processes with team leads and timelines.

Team Leadership & Development

Mentor, manage, and support design staff across experience levels; supervise staffing plans, resource allocation, and team development.

Guide and participate in the onboarding and training of new team members.

Identify growth opportunities and operational efficiencies for continuous team improvement.

Serve as a liaison between the Principal, design teams, and clients to ensure alignment and accountability.

Oversee procurement and warehouse operation team; refine workflows and systems as needed to increase efficiency.

Collaborate with leadership on internal systems, software utilization, and general business operations.

Support brand and business development initiatives when needed.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Communications, Business, or a related field.
10+ years of experience in the design industry with at least 5 years managing projects and teams.
Minimum of 3 years in a senior leadership or people management role.
Strong knowledge of the interior design process, construction timelines, materials, and vendor coordination.
Proficiency in AutoCAD and SketchUp (required), with familiarity in 3D modeling and rendering workflows.
Experience with Google Suite and strong familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Monday.com).
Exceptional organizational skills and ability to manage multiple people and complex projects simultaneously.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a polished and professional client-facing demeanor.
Proven experience with budget management, pricing accuracy, and financial documentation.
High attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and a calm, composed attitude under pressure.
Passion for thoughtful design and dedication to maintaining the firm’s aesthetic and high standard of execution.

To apply

To be considered for this position, you must share an up-to-date resume, portfolio, and detailed cover letter, which illustrates why you're specifically interested in working at PWD Studio.

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