Director of Design

Northland Properties

  • Vancouver, BC
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 13 days ago
As Director of Design, you will define the creative vision for our portfolio, lead a multidisciplinary team, and deliver world-class hospitality environments that strengthen our brands and delight our guests.The OpportunityIn this senior leadership role, you will:
  • Shape the design strategy for all Northland-owned hotels, restaurants, and facilities.
  • Lead a talented in-house design team and manage external consultants.
  • Oversee large-scale, multi-million-dollar design and procurement initiatives.
  • Ensure every project reflects our brand identity, operational needs, and guest expectations.
This is your chance to make a lasting mark on the hospitality landscape while working within a collaborative, entrepreneurial culture.Key ResponsibilitiesBased in our Vancouver Head Office and reporting to the VP, Construction & Design, your key responsibilities will involve:
  • Leadership & Strategy
  • Provide strategic direction and vision for the Design Department.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of department managers, project managers, designers, and procurement specialists.
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
  • Manage departmental budgets, resource planning, and project scheduling.
  • Drive process improvements and change initiatives aligned with company goals.
  • Represent Northland at corporate and industry events.
  • Design & Creative Direction
  • Establish and maintain a cohesive aesthetic vision across all corporate properties.
  • Develop and enforce design guidelines, including architectural, brand, furnishings, and safety standards.
  • Oversee all phases of design projects—from concept to installation—ensuring alignment with brand, budget, and schedule.
  • Manage outsourced design work and external consultant relationships.
  • Integrate sustainable practices and emerging trends into design solutions.
  • Project Management
  • Direct planning, execution, and evaluation of multiple concurrent projects valued at $25M+ each.
  • Define scopes, assign responsibilities, and monitor progress to ensure timely delivery.
  • Conduct site reviews to maintain design intent through construction.
  • Collaborate closely with development, construction, and operations teams.
  • Manage consultant contracts, scopes of work, and pre-construction engineering selection.
  • Oversee construction administration, including RFIs, ASIs, and shop drawing reviews.
  • Capture and implement lessons learned for continuous improvement.
  • Procurement & Vendor Management
  • Oversee strategic procurement across multiple categories for design and construction.
  • Manage a $250M+ budget, ensuring cost-effective, timely delivery of materials.
  • Lead vendor selection, negotiation, and relationship management.
  • Develop procurement policies, QA/QC processes, and inventory tracking systems.
What You Bring
  • Experience: 15+ years in design leadership within hospitality, commercial, or related industries, managing large-scale projects from concept to completion.
  • Leadership: Proven ability to inspire, develop, and retain high-performing teams.
  • Design Expertise: Strong creative vision with refined aesthetic judgment, aligned with brand and operational needs.
  • Collaboration: Skilled at working across disciplines with architects, engineers, contractors, and brand leaders.
  • Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of building codes, safety standards, and construction best practices.
  • Tools: Proficient in SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and project management platforms.
  • Trend Awareness: Up-to-date on sustainability, innovation, and hospitality design trends.
  • Travel: Willing to travel up to 20% of the time across Canada and the US.
What We Offer
  • Extended health, dental, and vision coverage
  • Group life insurance
  • Annual bonus opportunities
  • RRSP matching (after 6 months)
  • Company cell phone or monthly reimbursement
  • Discounts at Northland hotels, resorts, and select restaurants
  • Half-price lift tickets at Grouse Mountain and Revelstoke Mountain Resort
  • Free mental health support & counselling
  • A collaborative, friendly, and inclusive work environment
  • The opportunity to shape the future of hospitality design in a growing organization
Join us and design spaces that inspire.Northland Properties thanks all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Northland Properties