Design Manager

Overview

The Design Manager drives the day-to-day operations of the Singapore design team, ensuring projects are delivered on time, to standard, and with operational excellence. Acting as the department's operational anchor, you'll remove friction, coordinate across teams, and free the Design Director to focus on strategy and growth.

Job Summary

The Design Manager leads daily operations of the Singapore design team, ensuring timely, high-quality project delivery. You will remove operational friction, coordinate cross-functionally, and enable strategic focus for leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and allocate tasks across the design team to optimize performance and project delivery
• Conduct regular feedback sessions and monitor team performance to identify and address capability gaps
• Review design proposals, layouts, materials, and specifications to ensure compliance with DreamR’s standards and buildability
• Collaborate with the Head Drafter to enhance drawing and documentation quality for accuracy and clarity
• Maintain comprehensive visibility of all active projects to track progress and identify risks
• Partner with Project Management, Quantity Surveying, and Drafting teams to resolve project bottlenecks efficiently
• Ensure clear ownership and timely follow-through on all action items within the team and cross-functional groups
• Support designers during key client meetings by providing guidance and expertise
• Uphold professionalism and ensure timely responsiveness in all communications internally and externally
• Guide the team in resolving complex client issues with clarity and care to maintain client satisfaction
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and low-ego team culture that encourages continuous improvement
• Improve workflows, templates, and operational standards to drive departmental consistency and efficiency

Preferred competencies and qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in Singapore residential interior design
• Proven experience leading or mentoring designers
• Strong space planning, detailing, and technical knowledge
• Proficient in AutoCAD and SketchUp
• Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment