Design Director

About the Role:

We are partnering with one of the most respected architecture and design firms in the US, renowned for its award-winning work across sports, higher education, healthcare, aviation, and civic architecture. Their Denver studio is seeking a hands-on, conceptually strong Design Director to shape the studio’s creative direction while staying embedded in the work itself.

This is a leadership opportunity with real impact. You will split your time between active project involvement and driving the studio’s broader design culture, collaborating closely with local and national leadership to elevate design, mentor talent, and guide the next chapter of the practice.

This is an opportunity to define the creative identity of a growing, community-rooted studio. The firm has won multiple awards and is investing deeply in talent, sustainability, and inclusive design leadership.

If you are a thoughtful design leader who wants to make meaningful impact, shape culture, and lead award-winning work, this is the one.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead design direction across a broad portfolio, guiding teams and elevating output
• Serve as a key member of studio leadership alongside Managing and Operations Directors
• Champion peer reviews, design workshops, and a high standard of project excellence
• Mentor and grow the next generation of design talent
• Engage in early-phase pursuits, interviews, and marketing strategy
• Represent the studio externally through community involvement, speaking, and publications
• Promote a culture rooted in inclusivity, design integrity, and social responsibility

Key Skills / Requirements:

• 15+ years of professional experience, including built work across multiple typologies
• A design-forward mindset with a strong, refined portfolio
• Licensed Architect with deep conceptual and technical fluency
• Comfortable shifting between big-picture vision and hands-on project work
• Down-to-earth leadership style
• Excited by sports architecture (experience not required, but interest is important)
• Strong communication skills and a track record of mentoring diverse teams
• Based in or open to relocating to Denver (on-site presence required)

To apply for this position please click on the apply button to attach your resume (and portfolio for design positions).

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The Crowd is an equal opportunities employer and agency.