ROLE OVERVIEW

Position:

Head of DesignDepartment:

DesignReports to: VP of Design & ConstructionDirect reports:

Interior DesignersLocation:

Fenton, MO office, St. Louis-area job sites, and homeowners' homes

Type:

Full-time, salaried (exempt)

ROLE SUMMARY

The Head of Design owns the complete design experience at company, from initial homeowner discovery to final walkthrough. This leader sets creative direction, manages and develops the design team, and ensures every design is buildable, on budget, and on schedule for high-end custom homes starting at $750K.WHY

THIS ROLE EXISTS

As MCH grows, we need a visionary operator to elevate design standards, establish repeatable SOPs for selections, and lead homeowners through timely decisions so the design pipeline keeps moving without delays.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIESLead the Design DepartmentManage, mentor, and develop Interior Designers through regular reviews and Goal Setting Reviews (GSRs).Establish and enforce MCH design standards across all projects to ensure consistent quality.

Assign project workloads, recruit new talent, and lead high-stakes homeowner interactions.

Own the Homeowner Design ExperienceGuide homeowners through discovery, concepts, selections, and final specifications.

Create mood boards, material palettes, renderings, and technical plans in Chief Architect.

Lead selection meetings, establish firm decision deadlines, and drive selections to closure.

Conduct site visits with Project Managers and homeowners to verify constructability.

Protect Scope, Budget, and ScheduleKeep all selections within approved budgets, obtain vendor quotes, and flag lead-time risks early.

Issue change orders with cost/schedule impacts prior to work proceeding.

Ensure design deliverables and material handoffs match the production schedule.

Run Clean Documentation and SystemsOwn the Chief Architect and BuilderTrend software ecosystem for selection tracking and design records.

Build and maintain design SOPs, including QA checklists and selection binder standards.

Collaborate with architects on redline plans and coordinate installation details with trades.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required5+ years in high-end residential custom homes or major renovations.2+ years managing or mentoring interior designers.

Advanced proficiency in Chief Architect (renderings & documentation).Working proficiency in BuilderTrend (or equivalent construction management software).Solid understanding of cabinetry, millwork, finish carpentry, and construction sequencing.

Portfolio showcasing both high-end aesthetic range and technical documentation.

PreferredDegree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or Architecture.

NCIDQ or NKBA (CKD/CMKBD) credentials.

Experience serving high-net-worth homeowners and building design SOPs.

HOW SUCCESS IS

MEASUREDDesign Accuracy:

99% (final specs match approved plans)

On-Time Deliverables:

90%+ by schedule milestone

Budget Adherence:

95%+ selections within approved budget

Homeowner Satisfaction:

4.5 / 5 average post-design rating

COMPENSATION

& BENEFITSCompetitive base salary + performance bonusesMedical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with company match (up to 3%)Paid vacation, holidays, company computer, tablet, and tech toolsProfessional development support and continuing education