Director, Design

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Join BWH Hotels – Where Passion Meets Purpose

At BWH® Hotels, we don't just offer employment opportunities, we create opportunities to be part of something extraordinary. As a global leader in hospitality for nearly 80 years, our vision is to inspire travel through unique experiences. Joining our corporate team means becoming part of a dynamic and inclusive community that values innovation, collaboration, and making a meaningful impact in the travel industry.

Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, BWH Hotels boasts a powerful portfolio of 18 brands, including WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts, and SureStay Hotels®, with approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries. We take pride in our top-ranking employee engagement scores and foster a workplace culture where your contributions truly matter. Join us and be part of a team that's shaping the future of hospitality!

Job Purpose

Leads strategic design initiatives to enhance member development and product experience. Oversees the implementation of design programs that align with company standards and guest expectations. Drives innovation and continuous improvement across regional design operations. 

Key Responsibilities

  • Directs the Management of Design Requirements for Member Hotels, Interior Design, and Project Services
  • Lead the development and execution of design programs and initiatives that support member development and capital investment returns.
  • Establish and maintain departmental standards, policies, and tools to ensure consistency and excellence in design delivery.
  • Oversee regional design initiatives and ensure alignment with company objectives and professional standards.
  • Manage relationships with internal stakeholders and external vendors to ensure satisfaction and successful project outcomes.
  • Evaluate and improve design processes, guidelines, and methods to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Develop and mentor design staff by identifying strengths and providing training and development opportunities.
  • Prepare and manage annual budgets and works closely with Director, Purchasing, in vendor inclusion and management.
  • Ensure quality service by adhering to company standards and promoting design excellence.
  • Champion continuous improvement by evaluating emerging tools, processes, and best practices to drive operational efficiency, optimize resource utilization, and elevate the member and guest experience.

Preferred Experience and Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in architecture, interior design, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum 8 years of professional experience in architecture or interior design for commercial, industrial, or institutional facilities, including supervisory/management experience.

Required Knowledge and Skills

  • Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong financial and budgeting acumen.
  • Knowledge of industry standards and competitive landscape.
  • Ability to manage complex design projects and departmental operations.
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills with internal and external stakeholders.

Work Location 

  • This is a hybrid position, requiring onsite presence Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at our Headquarters location, with the option to work remote on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  Requires 5-day presence once per month during Board week.  This hybrid model fosters intentional collaboration, teamwork, connection, and productivity, while still providing flexibility and work life balance.  The office address is 6201 N 24th Parkway, Phoenix, Arizona 85016

This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship. 

Benefits Summary for Full-Time Employees  

· Medical/Dental/Vision available day one 

· Vacation/Sick- accruals start day one 

· Paid company holidays and personal holidays to celebrate what’s important to you  

· 401K - company contribution and match (U.S.) 

· Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) – company contribution and match (Canada) 

· Employee discounts/hotel discounts 

· Free financial and health wellness programs 

· Tuition Reimbursement 

Equal Employment Opportunity

BWH Hotels (the "Company") maintains a policy of equal employment opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants for employment without regard to race (including hair textures and hair styles associated with race), color or pigmentation, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, alienage or citizenship status, caste, age, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, sex, sexual orientation, LGBTQIA+ individuals, height, weight, pregnancy status, childbirth or related medical conditions, genetic information, uniformed service or veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, provincial, or local laws. The Company’s equal employment opportunity policy applies to all aspects of employment with the Company, including, but not limited to, hiring, promotion, transfer, benefits, discipline, and termination.