Mixed-Use Studio Leader

Murfreesboro, TN, USA|Remote, Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $15.50 - $24.25

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Flexible

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

employee ownership

Job Description

DLR Group is a renowned integrated design firm dedicated to elevating the human experience through innovative and thoughtful design solutions. With a global presence, the firm offers a diverse range of services including architecture, engineering, interiors, planning, and building optimization. The company focuses on creating designs that are not only aesthetically compelling but also environmentally responsible and community-oriented. DLR Group operates on a unique employee-owned model, meaning every employee is personally invested in the success of their clients and the projects they undertake. This collaborative and interdisciplinary approach ensures exceptional outcomes that align with the firm's core values of commitment, creativity, environmental stewardship, fun, integrity, ownership, sharing, and teamwork. The firm actively pursues ambitious sustainability goals in alignment with initiatives such as the 2030 Challenge, ME2040, SE2050, and is a signatory of the China Accord and the AIA 2030 Commitment, underlining its dedication to environmental responsibility and the future of design.

DLR Group's Nashville, TN office is currently seeking a Studio Leader to spearhead the growth and success of its Mixed-Use sector locally. This role is central to bridging enterprise and community through transformative design that invigorates social hubs, crafts unique stories, and fosters cultural identity. The Mixed-Use practice at DLR Group emphasizes a people-first approach, creating meaningful connections between communities and built environments that enable people to thrive. The role supports a flexible hybrid work model which balances office presence with work-from-home opportunities, promoting work-life balance and flexibility.

As a Studio Leader and Client Leader, the successful candidate will be instrumental in business development, client management, and contract negotiation processes. This position requires a deep understanding of managing client relationships alongside a strategic leadership approach in collaboration with project managers and design leaders to ensure projects meet financial and qualitative goals. The role involves continuous engagement with clients throughout project lifecycles, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment, and securing alignment between client expectations and DLR Group’s standards of design excellence. The Nashville studio culture is built around the ethos of great design delivered by great people, with a shared passion for enhancing human experience through every design initiative. Leadership in this role means maintaining strong communication, overseeing project execution, managing budgets and schedules, and ensuring the overall excellence of deliverables. The Studio Leader also participates in staffing decisions, performance evaluations, and supports business development by contributing to proposals and client engagements. This position offers an opportunity to lead in a dynamic and person-centered design practice embedded within a company committed to sustainability, professional growth, and a rewarding work culture.

Job Requirements

Bachelor's degree in architecture engineering interior design or related construction field
At least 10 years of professional experience in the AEC industry inclusive of at least 5 years in a client-facing role leading mixed-use projects in the southeast preferably in Nashville
Strong understanding of business management principles including strategic planning resource allocation and leadership
Knowledge of customer service principles including needs assessment quality standards and customer satisfaction
Expertise in design techniques and tools for producing technical plans drawings and models
Familiarity with building methods materials and systems for construction and renovation projects
Strong critical thinking time management and communication skills both verbal and written
Ability to actively listen understand others' perspectives and respond thoughtfully in conversations

Job Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in architecture engineering interior design or related construction field
At least 10 years of professional experience in the AEC industry inclusive of at least 5 years in a client-facing role leading mixed-use projects in the southeast preferably in Nashville
Strong understanding of business management principles including strategic planning resource allocation and leadership
Knowledge of customer service principles including needs assessment quality standards and customer satisfaction
Expertise in design techniques and tools for producing technical plans drawings and models
Familiarity with building methods materials and systems for construction and renovation projects
Strong critical thinking time management and communication skills both verbal and written
Ability to actively listen understand others' perspectives and respond thoughtfully in conversations

Job Duties

Manage project execution ensuring alignment with budget schedule and scope while maintaining client expectations
Collaborate with the project manager and design leader on staffing responsibilities and performance feedback for project team members
Track project milestones and deliverables ensuring adherence to quality standards and preparing regular status reports
Facilitate and document meetings with staff and clients coordinating project personnel vendors and consultants
Participate in client contract negotiations manage change requests and approve project plan modifications
Support business development initiatives by contributing to RFP responses and participating in client interviews
Oversee project invoicing ensuring accuracy and alignment with work deliverables and manage account receivables