Role Summary
Join our team as VP, Design, and become one of the authors of our story.
This is a new leadership role for Auberge that will play a critical role in our growth.
As part of the Auberge family, you will report directly to the Chief Creative Officer with primary responsibility for managing the design and creative process for new projects and renovations and have a high degree of autonomy and responsibility in those projects.
This role is an integral component of a small, focused Design and Construction team and the overall design of the hotel is a shared responsibility among this group.
Working seamlessly as an effective team will be critical.
Design at Auberge is where every hotel is a unique luxurious expression of its place
– and an eye for unique bespoke design is crucial.
We are looking for a true leader in the design and creative space.
This position is ideally based on the East Coast
– U.S.
Core Responsibilities
manage both the design direction and the design process for individual projects from concept/vision to implementation
manage owner relations, outsourced designers, other creative/project disciplines
partner with internal stakeholders in marketing, operations, and project teams
focus equally on vision and execution
utilize visionary thinking as well as a deep appreciation for process details to implement a one-of-kind design at each property
manage the detailed reviews of layout/planning, design narrative, direction in FFE, OSE, collateral as well as creating experiences and weaving design in all areas of hotel operations.
inspire, lead, and include multiple stakeholders including owners, project teams, partners, and internal teams in the creation of the project
influence the design and outcomes of all aspects of the hotel
– public spaces, rooms, food and beverage, landscaping, heart of the house as well as accessory items like operating supplies, uniforms, and signage.
create and communicate a narrative for each property based on vision, market comps, owner aspirations for each project and the evolution of the brand.
interpret program requirements into a clear design and story vision
develop overall plans, adjacency diagrams and detailed designs
coordinate in a management company capacity with designers, consultants and trades throughout the design and construction process
translate business needs into detailed project plans, monitor progress against schedules and budgets; maintain high-performance standards
assign clear accountability and monitor implementation to ensure success
establish priorities and effectively manage design through people and processes, using reliable tools, and leveraging resources and other parts of the organization
collaborate with operations department heads to ensure functions in design operate well
align with sales and marketing so strategies are aligned with the overall hotel plan
remain attuned and connected to the designers, manufacturers, trends, and makers that will help keep Auberge relevant as we create new projects
lead projects through imagery and specifications where needed (fabrics, furniture, architectural elements, partnerships)
This role is responsible for the highest level of design outcomes, guiding projects to completion with accuracy and creativity while monitoring project performance and managing both internal and external stakeholders.
Essential Skills, Knowledge, Abilities
Ability to inspire and demonstrate innovative thinking and techniques
Strong communication and collaboration skills
Ability to communicate the What, How and Why of the project to the team members at all levels of the organization and during regular owner reviews
Detail-oriented and highly organized
Possess an outside network of creatives to propose outside design teams and other partners to build out the owners vision
Ability to proactively develop and maintain effective relationships with internal and external key stakeholder groups to build on owners’ vision in creating great Auberge hotels
Strong influencing skills; ability to influence without direct management authority
Ability to create an atmosphere in which timely information flows smoothly both upward and downward through the organization
Ability to support, initiate, and manage change, taking steps to remove barriers or to accelerate pace as needed
Ability to bring alignment behind a concept, keep it on track and lead it through to successful execution.
Strong design/spatial and style skills to develop and review design work
Demonstrate a working understanding of:
Project schedules, design and construction process and sequence
Interior architecture and detailing for preparation of construction documents
Building and Accessibility codes
Furniture installation plans and specifications for bid purposes or direct purchase
Construction Administration experience: RFI’s, submittal review, field observation
Contracting for services
Redline and review plans, specifications, and bid packages
As a part of a fast-growing company, an entrepreneurial and can-do attitude is a necessary basis for success.
Required Qualifications
Luxury and lifestyle experience
Experience leading design projects in entrepreneurial, brand-led businesses
Background in managing multiple projects ranging from small
– to large-sized projects
Proven interaction and collaboration with hospitality panels, author of blogs, and travel content thought leaders
Prior experience building partnerships and strategic alliances
Proven experience managing project deliverables, staff, and consultants
Experience leading and motivating a strong, dynamic team
Bachelor’s degree in Design/Architecture or related field
8+ years’ experience in Interior Design
Experience with Technical REVIT, AutoCAD, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Project), GSuite, Adobe/Bluebeam
Strong leadership skills
– to effectively manage all stakeholders, collaborate across groups with opposing views, and align the vision with ability to execute.
Through curiosity and research has developed a connection or interaction with tastemakers and thought makers.
Background in influencing with certitude, directing with dignity, and creating with inspiration is critical to the success of this role.
Preferred Qualifications
Lodging/hospitality industry knowledge preferred, but willing to look at other industries
Design experience with start-up brands preferred
Prefer expertise in working with an experienced-based boutique hotel company
Travel Requirements
Frequent travel to new sites, existing hotels, and home office
Travel includes U.S.
and international (passport required, ability to rent and drive car in remote locations)
Infrequent travel to industry conferences