Drury Design is hiring: Senior Designer in Chicago

If you are a talented designer with formidable experience, a passion for creating exceptional kitchen and bath spaces, and you thrive in a role that combines design, project management, and sales, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join the Drury team and contribute your skills to our mission of transforming kitchens and bathrooms (and more!) into works of art. 

About Us: Drury Design is known for creating exquisite and functional spaces that allow our clients to “Live Life Artfully.” We specialize in end-to-end design solutions, from concept to construction, offering a seamless experience for our clients. Our team of designers is passionate about transforming kitchens and bathrooms into beautiful and functional spaces that meet the unique needs and desires of our clients. 

Job Description: 

The Sr. Designer role at Drury Design revolves around designing great spaces for luxury clients. You will be supported by a team of assistant designers who help with measuring, computer renderings and materials selections; a VP of operations who serves as an in-house engineering expert and the GC over the company's installers; purchasing support to aid with materials ordering and delivery; and a marketing team that matches you with clients looking to create their dream spaces. Your expertise, confidence and ability to communicate help you stand out in the industry as someone who sells your own amazing designs to clients and then sees them through to completion in a project manager capacity. Our clients are not shuffled around from salespeople to designers to random service providers and contract workers... our white glove service makes our company different. Our business model relies on design professionals like you who understand the importance of helping clients who expect white glove service. This multifaceted role is dependent on your creativity, organizational skills, and ability to build strong client relationships. Here are the key responsibilities associated with this position: 

Design: 

• Collaborate with clients to understand their design preferences, requirements, and budget constraints. 
• Assist in field measures 
• Create innovative and aesthetically pleasing kitchen and bath designs that align with clients' visions and functional needs. 
• Produce detailed design drawings, floor plans, elevations, and 3D renderings to communicate design concepts effectively. 
• Select appropriate materials, finishes, fixtures, and appliances while staying within project budgets. 
• Present design concepts to clients and make adjustments based on their feedback. 

Sales: 

• Engage with walk-in clients – listen to their needs, answer questions and help them understand the scope of solutions Drury Design offers 
• Conduct in-home consultations to better understand client needs and present preliminary design ideas. 
• Prepare and present detailed project proposals, including cost estimates and timelines. 
• Follow up on leads generated from marketing efforts and convert them into sales. 
• Negotiate and close sales deals, ensuring client satisfaction and project feasibility. 
• Foster long-term client relationships by providing exceptional service and support. 

Project Management: 

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project, ensuring clear and effective communication. 
• Develop (with Operations) project timelines, budgets, and scope of work in collaboration with clients. 
• Oversee project implementation, including coordinating with contractors, suppliers, and subcontractors. 
• Monitor project progress and quality, conducting site visits to ensure quality, resolve any issues or delays that may arise. 
• Ensure all projects are completed on time and within budget while maintaining design integrity. 
• Manage project documentation, including contracts, change orders, and project schedules. 

Collaboration & Teamwork: 

• Work closely with others - Designers, Assistant Designers, the VP of Operations, installers and support staff to support the design process. 
• Provide mentorship and guidance to other design team members, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. 
• Participate in team meetings, design reviews, and training sessions to continuously improve skills and knowledge. 
• Manage assigned vendor categories, maintaining industry relationships and product knowledge while curating showroom samples and serving as the team's category expert. 

Professional Development: 

• Stay updated on the latest design trends, materials, and technologies. 
• Attend industry events, workshops, and training programs to enhance design and project management skills. 
• Seek feedback from clients and colleagues to identify areas for improvement and growth. 
• Pursue NKBA membership and certification, participating in ongoing industry education and certification. At Drury Design, we strongly believe in ongoing industry education and certification. All design employees are on a continual path toward achieving higher levels of NKBA certification and participating in continuing education. We support our designers' certification journeys and regularly arrange on-site training sessions that qualify for NKBA continuing education credits. 

Job Requirements: 

• Growth Mindset 
• Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field. 
• Minimum of 5 years experience in kitchen and bath design, project management, and sales within the residential design/build industry. 
• Proficiency in hand drafting/sketching or design software. Experience in Chief Architect is a plus. 
• Strong project management and organizational skills. 
• Prior NKBA membership/certification encouraged but not required. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously. 
• Strong sales acumen. Prior sales experience is a plus.  
• Strong understanding of project management principles and practices. 
• Creative problem-solving skills and attention to detail. 
• A strong commitment to delivering exceptional customer service. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team. 
• Knowledge of construction processes and materials. 
• Positive attitude and a proactive approach to tasks. 
• A portfolio showcasing your design work and project management experience is required. 

Benefits: 

• Highly competitive commission structure with transition salary program. 
• Health, dental, and vision insurance programs. 
• Matching IRA program. 
• Flexible Schedule 
• Professional development and continuing education support. 
• A supportive and creative work environment. 
• The chance to be part of a dynamic and growing design firm. 
• Our showroom is conveniently situated in the vibrant heart of downtown Glen Ellyn, offering easy access to charming cafes, exciting shopping destinations, walkable train access, and even a nearby post office. 

How to Apply: Follow the ZipRecruiter process to indicate your interest and share your resume/materials. Go-getters determined to get ahead of the pack will reach out directly to our recruiting team at hannah@drurydesigns.com. We look forward to reviewing your application and considering you for this exciting opportunity to be part of our design team.