Interior Design Manager

Not Specified | Permanent, full-time
Ref: KM39 (2 weeks ago)
Guildhall is seeking an Interior Design Manager for our client, a premium café brand, to lead the design and delivery of new store interiors and upgrades across Dubai. This role combines creative vision with hands-on project management to ensure that every café reflects the brand’s premium identity and operational needs.

Key Responsibilities

Design Leadership
• Develop and oversee interior design concepts, ensuring alignment with the brand identity and customer experience standards
• Create mood boards, layouts, furniture, lighting, and finishes for new stores and café refurbishments
• Ensure designs are both visually appealing and operationally practical

Project Management & Coordination
• Lead design implementation from concept through to handover, coordinating with contractors, suppliers, and café operations teams
• Manage timelines, budgets, and quality standards for interior design projects
• Review shop drawings, material samples, and design documentation, ensuring compliance with brand guidelines

Collaboration & Stakeholder Management
• Liaise with architects, contractors, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure smooth project delivery
• Support procurement of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) in coordination with the procurement and supply chain teams
• Conduct site visits to monitor progress, quality, and adherence to design intent

Reporting & Documentation
• Maintain organized project records, drawings, and approvals
• Prepare regular design status reports and updates for senior management
• Identify and implement improvements in design and execution processes

Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or related field
• 5+ years’ experience in interior design, preferably in F&B, hospitality, or retail environments
• Strong portfolio demonstrating café, restaurant, or hospitality projects
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, 3D rendering software, and MS Office
• Strong project management, coordination, and communication skills
• Must be based in UAE; willingness to travel to sites for supervision