Design and Business Director - #1173387

PARENTHESIS is a Singapore-based interior design studio specialising in high-end residential developments, bespoke private residences, hospitality-inspired interiors, and commercial spaces.

Our design philosophy is rooted in thoughtful creativity, refined aesthetics, and meticulous attention to detail. We work closely with established property developers, private clients, and industry partners to create distinctive and meaningful spaces.

As our studio continues to grow, we are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Design Director to strengthen our design leadership, expand our business opportunities, and build long-term client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Client Relations

• Identify, develop, and secure new business opportunities across residential, hospitality, and commercial sectors.

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with property developers, architects, consultants, private clients, and industry partners.

• Represent the studio in client meetings, business presentations, networking events, and industry engagements.

• Lead project pitches, design proposals, fee negotiations, and commercial discussions.

• Develop strategies to expand the studio's client portfolio and strengthen its market positioning.

• Identify potential collaborations, partnerships, and opportunities for business growth.

• Maintain and nurture existing client relationships to encourage repeat business and long-term partnerships.

Design Leadership & Creative Direction

• Provide creative direction and design leadership across multiple projects.

• Collaborate with the design team to develop compelling design concepts and presentations.

• Review design proposals to ensure consistency with the studio's design philosophy and quality standards.

• Guide and mentor designers, encouraging creativity, technical excellence, and professional development.

• Oversee key design milestones and ensure that project deliverables meet client expectations.

• Balance creative aspirations with project budgets, commercial considerations, and practical implementation.

Strategic & Operational Management

• Work closely with the management team to develop and implement business growth strategies.

• Evaluate potential projects based on commercial viability, resource allocation, and strategic alignment.

• Oversee project proposals, fee structures, and resource planning.

• Monitor client satisfaction, project performance, and overall service quality.

• Contribute to the studio's long-term development, brand positioning, and operational improvement.

Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Architecture, or a related discipline.

• Minimum 8–10 years of relevant experience in interior design, architecture, or a related design consultancy environment.

• Proven experience in a senior design, management, client-facing, or business development role.

• Strong understanding of the residential property development, hospitality, and commercial interior design sectors.

• Established professional network within the property development, architecture, construction, or design industries will be advantageous.

• Strong design sensibility with the ability to evaluate and communicate design concepts effectively.

• Excellent interpersonal, presentation, negotiation, and relationship management skills.

• Commercially minded, with a good understanding of consultancy fees, project profitability, and business operations.

• Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience managing multidisciplinary teams.

• Proactive, independent, and capable of identifying opportunities and driving initiatives.

• Proficiency in relevant design software is advantageous.

What We Offer

• A senior leadership position with opportunities to influence the studio's creative and business direction.

• Exposure to high-profile residential developments, bespoke private residences, and commercial projects.

• Opportunities to build relationships with established property developers and industry partners.

• A collaborative and design-driven working environment.

• Competitive remuneration commensurate with experience and capabilities.

• Opportunities for long-term career development and progression within the studio.

Application

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and portfolio, together with a brief summary of their experience in design leadership, client management, and business development.

We are particularly interested in individuals who combine strong design understanding with commercial acumen, excellent relationship-building abilities, and a genuine passion for growing a design-led practice.