Associate Director Design

Job Description

Position Overview Lead The Canvas s design strategy and team of multi-disciplinary designers, ensuring exceptional creative output aligned with business objectives. This senior leadership role requires 15+ years of design experience and the ability to balance visionary thinking with practical execution. Reporting Structure Reports to: Principal Architect Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Innovation Develop & implement comprehensive design strategies aligned with The Canvas s business goals Collaborate with executives to integrate design thinking into organizational decision-making Identify market trends and emerging technologies to maintain competitive advantage Establish and maintain design systems ensuring brand consistency across all touchpoints Team Leadership & Development Lead and mentor cross-functional design teams across multiple disciplines Establish design processes, methodologies, and quality standards Oversee resource allocation and team capacity management Foster a collaborative, creative culture that encourages innovation and growth Client & Stakeholder Management Serve as design authority and key client contact for high-value accounts Present concepts and strategies to executive stakeholders and clients Navigate complex requirements while maintaining design integrity Build strong client relationships through design excellence and business understanding Quality & Execution Review and approve all major design deliverables, ensuring exceptional quality Establish metrics to measure design effectiveness and impact Lead design critique sessions to elevate work quality Balance aesthetic excellence with business constraints and technical feasibility Business Growth Contribute to new business pitches with compelling design narratives Identify opportunities to expand service offerings based on market needs Represent The Canvas at industry events and speaking engagements Drive growth through design-led innovation Required Qualifications Bachelors degree in Design or related field; Masters preferred 15+ years of progressive design experience with 5+ years in senior leadership Proven track record leading multi-disciplinary design teams Expert proficiency in industry-standard design tools Strong understanding of digital product development lifecycles Experience with design systems implementation Exceptional communication and presentation skills at executive levels Strategic thinking with demonstrated business acumen Portfolio demonstrating design excellence and diverse project experience Key Performance Areas Design quality and consistency across all deliverables Client satisfaction and retention metrics Team performance, growth, and development Contribution to business development and revenue Innovation implementation and measurable impact Key Skills : Interior Design Architecture Design Manager Associate Director Associate Director Design