Gensler

Your Role

Gensler is organized around a studio structure, each with a focus on a particular client and practice specialty. The Oakland office is looking for a leader experienced in the design and execution of Office Building / Commercial Developments.

As a Gensler Studio Director, you are a leader of clients, design and delivery, and culture. You will work with the Oakland Office Directors to fulfill our strategic planning objectives and to lead your studio to deliver the best design work possible.

What You Will Do

Business Development/Marketing

• We are looking for a leader that has a market presence and is comfortable developing new business on a consistent basis.
• This includes reaching out to new clients, leading projects and marketing opportunities with existing clients, and working closely with our Marketing department to lead business development reporting, lead generation, and proposal writing.

Leadership

• We are looking for a strong leader who can mentor and motivate employees to enable them to reach their individual potential.
• We support leadership maintaining an “open door policy” to allow individuals to feel free to communicate with you and other members of the management team.
• Studio Directors are expected to grow staff capabilities through fostering a culture of learning focused on improving individual technical, management and design skills.
• You will lead quarterly coaching sessions with employees and ensure employee goals are monitored throughout the year.
• Provide a creative, innovative and nurturing environment through your studio by developing an effective coaching/mentoring program.

Management

• As the leader of your studio, you are responsible for overall performance of the studio.
• As the caretaker of your staff, you should address the interests, concerns and problems of the studio and ensure issues are addressed and resolved expeditiously.
• In your role, you will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of the studio relating to all staff, business and financial operations.

Projects

• In your role as Studio Director, you will be responsible for maintaining positive client relationships with all projects assigned to your studio.
• You will need to attend client meetings, lead and participate in strategy, review conceptual development and provide leadership, inspiration and motivation to the design team to ensure the highest quality design documentation is produced and client satisfaction is achieved.

Your Qualifications

• Bachelor or Master’s degree in Architecture or Interior Design
• A design professional with proven leadership skills, including business development
• A minimum of 15 years of experience in the architecture, interiors and design field with a focus on workplace design and delivery
• Technical delivery and contract review expertise
• Experience in guiding the operations of a studio; both in the mentorship and development of staff as well fiscal oversight
• Top notch client relationships in the Bay Area a plus in our consideration
• Demonstrated business development skills within the local industry
• High EQ
• Significant project experience in some combination of mixed use/office, high rise residential, office, and renovation work
• High level of drive and collaborative spirit to help grow and mentor a dynamic studio with engaged team members
• Able to travel to other Gensler offices or client project locations if needed
• Excellent references and personal portfolio of work
• Participation and presence in industry organizations and professional affiliations
• The base salary will be estimated between $136,000 - $173,500 plus bonuses and benefits and contingent on relevant experience.

For consideration, please submit cover letter, resume and portfolio in PDF format.

Life at Gensler

At Gensler, we are as committed to enjoying life as we are to delivering best-in-class design. From curated art exhibits to internal design competitions to “Well-being Week,” our offices reflect our people’s diverse interests.

We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offer a 401k, profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and twice annual bonus opportunities. Our annual base salary range has been established based on local markets.

As part of the firm’s commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, we reimburse tuition for certain eligible programs or classes. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future.