Job Location:

PRIMARY PURPOSE:
 

The Design Manager is responsible for leading the planning and design of retail developments in alignment with Simon’s business model and strategic objectives. The role collaborates closely with internal partners, including Development, Leasing, Operations and Project Management to define project goals and deliver coordinated design solutions. Working with the development team, this position manages the full design process through external architectural and engineering consultants, presenting recommendations to senior leadership and guiding approved direction through successful implementation.

 

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Design Leadership

• Manage external AE consultants through the design process from concept through construction.
• Provide master planning input on mixed-use projects in Simon’s real estate pipeline.  
• Review consultant design concepts and construction drawings providing feedback, design suggestions and alternatives to assist in meeting Simon goals for the Project.  
• Participate in Value Engineering sessions to ensure that the overall design goals are met.
• Review and comment on construction submittals of major specialty design components.
• Ensure AE consultants are following Simon design standards and operational initiatives.
• Working with Tenant Coordination, review and comment on tenant work letters and provide input on tenant criteria. Review tenant design drawings on assigned projects.
• Provide input and coordination assistance for the procurement and installation of all project fixtures, furnishings, and equipment. Review FFE purchase orders and submittals of any owner supplied items.
• Make necessary site visits for project meetings to review progress of construction and mock-ups, participate in resolving design related problems.  

Design Management

• Develop project design scope, schedule, and budget for Architect/Engineer services.
• Actively seeks and solicits proposals from external consultants best suited for the assigned project.
• Prepare Request for Proposals (RFP) for new projects, evaluate responses and make selection with project team.
• Prepare consultant contracts and additional services, using Simon standard templates. Manage contracts through Simon’s Project Management system.
• Review and approve consultants invoicing.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor of Architecture from a NAAB-accredited school.
• Architecture license and registration in at least one U.S. state preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years progressive AE industry experience, inclusive of 6 years commercial retail experience. Experience may include roles as project designer or project architect.
• Demonstrated ability to graphically communicate design solutions through hand sketching and computer 2D/3D modeling including: SketchUp or Rhino, CAD or REVIT, along with rendering engine experience including V-Ray or Enscape. Photoshop experience a plus.  
• Experience coordinating engineering disciplines with architectural documentation.
• Knowledge of multifamily, and or hospitality market sectors a plus.