Studio Director
3 days ago
Los Angeles
Job DescriptionSalary: to be discussed The Studio Director is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the internal operations, project management systems, and organizational health of Studio LIFE/STYLE. Acting as the operational and logistical backbone of the firm, this person ensures that projects run efficiently, teams are supported, and the principals can focus on big-picture strategy, design leadership, and creative direction. This role requires a strong balance of business acumen and operational expertise, with a deep understanding of how design studios function. The Studio Director will develop, implement, and manage internal systems; oversee team structure and HR processes; and collaborate closely with the Finance Partner to ensure financial clarity and forecasting accuracy. The ideal candidate is proactive, solutions-oriented, and capable of both strategic thinking and hands-on management. Key Responsibilities Studio Operations & Management • Oversee the day-to-day operations of the studio, ensuring clear communication, structure, and accountability across all teams., • Develop, implement, and maintain efficient internal systems, workflows, and processes that support project execution and studio growth., • Partner with the Principal to translate big-picture goals into actionable operational strategies., • Serve as the central point of contact for resolving project or team-related issues before escalation to the principals., • Ensure deadlines, budgets, and deliverables are met through effective coordination between project managers, designers, and vendors. Project Oversight & Support • Work closely with Senior Project Managers and Project Managers to ensure projects are properly staffed, scheduled, and resourced., • Monitor project health budgets, timelines, and deliverables providing guidance or intervention when needed., • Support project teams in problem-solving logistical, contractual, or resourcing challenges to maintain project momentum., • Coordinate with the Design Principal on creative staffing needs and the Business Principal on financial feasibility and workload projections. Finance, Reporting & Forecasting • Oversee the use of Studio Designer (or similar project management software), ensuring accurate data entry and reporting across all teams., • Generate and review monthly financial reports and projections in collaboration with the Finance Partner., • Provide the principals with clear insights on studio profitability, resource utilization, and capacity planning., • Support the preparation of contracts and fee proposals for new business opportunities in collaboration with the Business Principal., • Track project billing, expenses, and profitability to ensure financial accountability and transparency. HR, Staffing & Culture • Oversee day-to-day HR operations in partnership with the studios HR consultant, including onboarding, reviews, and performance management., • Ensure the organizational structure supports the studios needs, with clear roles, responsibilities, and reporting lines., • Collaborate with the principals to determine staffing needs, manage recruitment efforts, and oversee employee growth plans., • Supervise and support the Office Manager and/or Design Assistant, ensuring they are aligned with studio priorities., • Help maintain a positive, professional, and creative studio culture rooted in accountability, communication, and mutual respect. Systems, Tools & Process Improvement • Evaluate and refine studio systems for efficiency and scalability, including project management, finance tracking, and communications tools., • Ensure consistency in documentation, contracts, and deliverables across teams., • Train team members on studio standards and workflows to maintain consistency and quality., • Proactively identify gaps or inefficiencies and propose strategic solutions. Leadership & Communication • Act as a bridge between the principals and the broader teamtranslating vision into action and maintaining transparency on progress and priorities., • Lead regular all-studio and project management meetings to align teams and ensure accountability., • Support the principals by managing day-to-day studio needs and freeing them to focus on creative, strategic, and relationship-building priorities., • Uphold and embody the values and standards of Studio LIFE/STYLE in all internal and external interactions. Partnership & Collaboration • Collaborate closely on design team management, staffing needs, and project oversight; ensure creative priorities are supported by operational systems., • Partner on financial forecasting, contracts, and business operations to maintain studio health and sustainability., • With the Finance Partner: Manage ongoing reporting, projections, and budget reviews to provide accurate insights to leadership., • With the HR Consultant: Oversee employee relations, staffing processes, and compliance. Qualifications • 812+ years of experience in operations, production, or management within an interior design, architecture, or creative studio environment., • Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and oversee multiple projects simultaneously., • Strong financial literacy and proficiency in Studio Designer (required)., • Demonstrated experience implementing studio systems, workflows, and process improvements., • Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills., • Ability to balance structure with flexibility in a creative, fast-paced environment., • Deep understanding of the interior design process and its operational demands.