Design Manager

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.
Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.
What this job involves:
We are seeking an experienced design professional with a strong background in architectural and workplace strategy to lead the development, management, and evolution of global design standards and guidelines. This role is responsible for ensuring consistency across the company’s global portfolio while supporting innovation and adaptability to changing business needs. The position combines strategic design thinking, program management, and cross-functional collaboration to maintain a comprehensive global guidelines system and support workplace design excellence.
Your day-to-day tasks will include:
Global Guidelines Development & Management (50-60% of role after initial ramp-up)
Platform & System Administration
Lead the program management of the website transition from the vendors, ensuring seamless migration and enhanced functionality
Serve as primary administrator for the platform, managing updates, corrections, and ongoing system optimization
Remediate legacy content inconsistencies and errors from previous Front Office and Tech & Ops contributions
Maintain and update design guidelines application processes, including managing exceptions based on line of business requests
Standards Development & Coordination Program manage the development and implementation of new and revised guidelines across multiple areas including, but not limited too:
Client Center Guidelines
Design & Build reduced Guidelines for local leadership teams
Line of Business and Select Guidelines
Environmental Graphic Design (EGD) Guidelines
Elevator Lobby Guidelines
Good/Better/Best tiered standards
Hydration station Guidelines
Wellness, Lactation, Medical, and Prayer room standards
Content Enhancement & Documentation
Compile comprehensive furniture, finishes, and lighting specifications (cut sheets) with cost data organized by region
Develop standardized deliverable examples including furniture packages for Architect of Record (AoR) use
Create and maintain Architect Onboarding presentation materials
Coordinate amenities metrics and space allocation percentages with the Amenities Department
Manage integration of sustainability content and updates
Maintain references to strategic partners' standards (Engineering, Resilience, Technology, A/V, Security, etc.)
Research & Development / Sample Coordination (20-25% of role)
Material Library Management
Support the Global Design team in maintaining a relevant, organized, and forward-looking material and sample library
Review and categorize existing samples, distinguishing between active-use materials and research-focused specimens
Organize and archive research materials, photos, and insights from international design events and industry visits
Innovation & Vendor Research
Conduct proactive research into emerging products, finishes, and vendors to expand design solutions across all budget categories
Engage with vendors and collaborate with architects to identify innovative materials and applications
Program manage prototyping initiatives for new millwork solutions in coordination with the Global Design Team
Capture and document knowledge from key design industry events and trade shows
Document Control & Administration (15-20% of role)
Archive Management
Lead the review and update of project archives from recent years (1-2 year lookback)
Maintain centralized archive repository systems
Ensure current project records remain organized, accessible, and up-to-date
Convert documents to PDF format and manage distribution to stakeholders as requested
Desired experience and technical skills:
Requirements:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or a related design discipline
7–10 years of professional experience in architecture and workplace strategy
Demonstrated experience developing and managing corporate design standards or guidelines
Strong understanding of commercial interior design, workplace strategy, and space planning principles
Proficiency with digital platform administration and content management systems
Advanced knowledge of design documentation, specifications, and industry standards
Familiarity with document management systems such as ACC/Autodesk Construction Cloud and Microsoft Teams
Working knowledge of sustainability frameworks and workplace wellness standards
Strong program management, organizational, and stakeholder management skills
Ability to manage multiple concurrent initiatives with strong attention to detail
Excellent written and verbal communication skills across diverse teams and geographies
Knowledge of furniture, finishes, lighting, and materials specifications
Understanding of cost implications across tiered design frameworks
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to synthesize complex information into actionable guidance
Self-directed and collaborative work style with adaptability to evolving business needs
Preferred:
Experience with Satori or similar workplace/design standards platforms
Experience supporting global workplace or corporate real estate portfolios
Familiarity with prototyping initiatives and materials research programs
Passion for emerging workplace trends, innovative materials, and design technology
Experience coordinating across creative teams, strategic partners, and operational stakeholders
This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Expected compensation for this position:
170,000.00 – 190,000.00 USD per year
Final compensation packages are determined by various considerations including but not limited to candidate qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations.
Location:
On-site –New York, NY
If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!
Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:
JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits include:
401(k) plan with matching company contributions
Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay
At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.
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Jones Lang LaSalle (“JLL”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with dis