Creative Director Landscape Architecture

ABOUT WATG WATG is the world’s preeminent destination and hospitality design firm. We are employee-owned, almost 80 years young, and home to over 450 creative, globe-trotting professionals located remotely and in our offices in California, Dallas, New York, Honolulu, London, Singapore, and Shanghai. Our approach to design applies a hospitality ethos to the development of all shapes and sizes. From initial feasibility studies to finishing touches, we operate globally as an integrated, multidisciplinary practice. Along with our interior design studio, Wimberly Interiors , we specialize in hospitality, gaming entertainment, urban mixed-use, and high-end residential design. We were founded in Honolulu in 1945, and the spirit of the islands taught us to focus on community strength, self-reliance, and sustainability – which we still prioritize today. We passionately believe that culture and heritage are the roots that lead to long-term resilience. We stay true to our values of designing spaces that respect, protect, and enhance the natural magic of their surroundings while delivering long-term value for our clients and their communities. WATG is hiring a Creative Director in Landscape Architecture for our office in Tustin or Los Angeles, California. ROLE The Creative Director is the design leader and mentor to conceptualize, develop, and implement innovative design solutions. The Creative Director develops pioneering solutions and strategies to address client goals, resulting in consistent, high-quality, and exceptional design experiences. The Creative Director develops high-level concepts for design projects and works with internal and external clients, pitching designs and understanding client needs. The Creative Director may sometimes be responsible for managing third-party design firms and internal design resources. The Creative Director has extensive experience managing all phases of the project and demonstrates creative design skills and high standards. Creative Directors focus globally and locally, cross-selling services and demonstrating a strong commitment to collaboration with Managing Principals and the Studio Directors to implement annual business plans and financial performance goals for the Studio. The Creative Director reports to the Studio Director and Managing Principal. RESPONSIBILITIES Leads creative sessions for project kick-offs, finding the most effective way to find the best design solution Influences and shapes the design concept for multiple projects from concept through completion Works directly with the Studio Director and Managing Principal to meet established overall Studio targets and objectives within a service line Works with the Studio Director, Project Director and internal teams to generate ideas for pitching proposals and collaborates on opportunity pursuits Works with the Studio Director to prepare client presentations Develops creative programs and design concepts that meet the business objectives of the organization Establishes creative direction and programs for the team and the Studio Oversees and ensures that the design quality and design standards used in the projects meet brand consistency (the Design Way) and processes established by service leadership Understands the team’s skillsets, assures studio talent effectiveness and growth, and liaises with other offices on talent resourcing, sharing and exchange Collaborates with design and technical senior leaders in the development and implementation of project plans Collaborates with Studio Director and Managing Principal on business development initiatives and industry intelligence and trends Provides and promotes learning and development opportunities to raise the design quality and capabilities of the team Spends time researching best practices Works with senior leaders and Studio Director on project issues and resolutions Builds the team, motivates, and fosters design quality of project team members Joins senior leader meetings to communicate and participate in key initiatives QUALIFICATIONS Professional degree from an appropriate accredited institution 10 years of experience in hospitality design and advanced knowledge of the service Licensure and/or professional certification as appropriate Successful track record of managing large projects or multiple smaller projects Experience in hospitality design and interaction with clients regarding project scope and concepts Proven abilities in interfacing with clients, consultants, vendors, and employees Experience leading design teams and mentoring, motivating and giving constructive feedback to the project team Committed to thought leadership History of leading and inspiring staff to produce great work while maintaining a positive culture Please include a copy of your resume and portfolio to be considered for this position. JOB INFORMATION $115,000 to $150,000 per year WATG is an Equal Opportunity Employer