Design Standards & Concept Designer in City of London

Job description

Criterion Capital is a London-based developer, owner, and operator of hospitality assets — including our in-house hotel brand, Zedwell. With an in-house design team responsible for creating concepts, brand standards, and designs across our hotel portfolio, we’re shaping a distinctive and guest-focused approach to urban hospitality.

We are now seeking a Design Development Manager to lead the ongoing evolution of our hotel brands and ensure design excellence across all new developments and refurbishments. This role requires a creative yet commercially minded leader who can manage design delivery from concept through to completion, maintaining the balance between innovation, operational efficiency, and brand identity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of brand design standards across all hotel brands.
• Oversee design development for projects from initial concept to completion, ensuring alignment with brand vision and operational requirements.
• Collaborate with internal teams — including hotel operations, development, and procurement — as well as architects, contractors, and consultants to coordinate and deliver cohesive design outcomes.
• Direct the creation of room types, public area concepts, and other branded environments that elevate the guest experience.
• Manage design presentations, mood boards, and sample boards to communicate design intent to internal stakeholders and senior management.
• Provide technical oversight on drawings, specifications, and joinery details, ensuring accuracy and buildability.
• Evaluate and select materials, finishes, and FF&E with a focus on durability, cost efficiency, and sustainability.
• Support procurement processes, identifying suppliers and ensuring the design vision aligns with commercial and operational goals.
• Visit project sites to review design quality, resolve issues, and ensure installations reflect approved standards.
• Stay informed on emerging design trends, materials, and technologies, introducing fresh ideas and innovation into ongoing and future projects.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong creative and conceptual design ability, with a deep understanding of hospitality environments.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp/Rhino, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong project management skills — able to prioritise, delegate, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Commercial acumen, balancing aesthetic quality with budget and operational practicality.
• A collaborative, hands-on approach with the ability to inspire and motivate a multidisciplinary team.

Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in interior or architectural design, preferably within the hospitality sector.
• Proven track record of leading or managing design development in hotel or high-end residential projects.
• Strong portfolio showcasing both conceptual and completed work.
• Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a related discipline.

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

City of London

Type of Contract

Part-time jobs

Published at

18-11-2025

Profession type

Design / Fashion

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English