Design Manager

The Practice 

ASPECT Studios is a purpose orientated, design led landscape architecture and urban design practice. With operations across Australia, Asia and the Middle East, our studios believe in the power of design to positively change people's behaviour and lives, the environment, and the planet. 

Through spatial and interpretive design, our Wayfinding and Interpretation team reveal the unique stories and histories of places to create meaningful connections for all, bringing together the tangible and intangible through a diverse spectrum of project opportunities including place design / landscape architecture, storytelling and interpretation, environmental graphics and integrated public art, place identity and branding. 

Our team believes in the importance of creating a studio environment where an openness to new ideas and collaboration sits in partnership with deep knowledge and expertise.  

The Role 

Based in either Melbourne or Brisbane, our Wayfinding & Interpretation studio is seeking a Design Manager to join us full-time, to manage a portfolio of exciting projects across ASPECT Studios globally.

The Design Manager will play a pivotal role in supporting leadership with effective project management and delivery, connecting strategic direction with the delivery of operational and design excellence. Acting as a key interface between team members, global ASPECT studios, internal stakeholders, and clients, this role will enable high-quality design outcomes through effective coordination, thoughtful collaboration, and contribution to business development and submissions. 

The Design Manager will mentor team members, refine systems and processes, and strengthen design culture to elevate both project outcomes and team engagement, as well as write and compile wayfinding bids, build and maintain customer relationships, and contribute to studio and commercial management. The role demands strong organisational capability, calm and confident leadership, design literacy, and a collaborative approach with a diverse range of stakeholders. The role also encompasses fostering team cohesion, managing personal workload effectively, and prioritising tasks to ensure outcomes are delivered to the highest standard.

Required skills and experience includes:  

• A minimum of 6+ years industry experience.
• A degree in graphic design, landscape architecture, architecture, urban design or related design field.
• Exceptional stakeholder and project management skills.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading environmental, signage, wayfinding, and user experience design projects, with proven knowledge and experience in wayfinding and multidisciplinary design environments.
• Thorough understanding of design for the built environment and project processes, including program, resourcing and briefing.
• Ability to manage client relationships and coordinating multiple projects with internal teams including supporting and mentoring team members throughout project delivery.
• Ability to effectively manage your time, and team member time to ensure assigned tasks are completed efficiently and on time.
• Experience in ensuring projects meet design excellence, timelines, and budget expectations.
• Ability to manage teams and coordinate across disciplines.
• Proficiency in Office 365 suite and Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Project-based commercial and Quality Assurance understanding.

ASPECT Benefits 

Our workplace culture is extremely supportive, creative, and driven, so you can rest assured that your workmates will have your back and will help you to succeed in the role. We embrace diversity, foster professional development, and will provide you with the tools and environment you need to thrive. 

Some of the benefits you'll enjoy as an ASPECT staff member include: 

• Additional two weeks of annual leave through our Purchased Leave Initiative, 
• Access to generous company paid Parental Leave benefits after 6 months, 
• MAPS Days and paid volunteering – four paid days a year to grow your skills and knowledge, 
• Professional membership support following probation – reimbursement of fees for industry memberships,
• Strong learning and mentoring culture, and more.

Head to our website to view a full list of employee benefits.

How to Apply  

Interested in the role but not sure you meet all our criteria? We'd love to hear from you and encourage you to apply. 

Please submit your CV and portfolio outlining how your skills and experience identify with the role and ASPECT Studios. 

Only applications from Australian Citizens, permanent residents or long-term visa holders are eligible for appointment.