Job Description

As Director of Design, you will define the creative vision for our portfolio, lead a multidisciplinary team, and deliver world-class hospitality environments that strengthen our brands and delight our guests.
The Opportunity
In this senior leadership role, you will:

• Shape the design strategy for all Northland-owned hotels, restaurants, and facilities.
• Lead a talented in-house design team and manage external consultants.
• Oversee large-scale, multi-million-dollar design and procurement initiatives.
• Ensure every project reflects our brand identity, operational needs, and guest expectations.

This is your chance to make a lasting mark on the hospitality landscape while working within a collaborative, entrepreneurial culture.
Key Responsibilities
Based in our Vancouver Head Office and reporting to the VP, Construction & Design, your key responsibilities will involve:

• Leadership & Strategy

• Provide strategic direction and vision for the Design Department.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of department managers, project managers, designers, and procurement specialists.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Manage departmental budgets, resource planning, and project scheduling.
• Drive process improvements and change initiatives aligned with company goals.
• Represent Northland at corporate and industry events.

• Design & Creative Direction

• Establish and maintain a cohesive aesthetic vision across all corporate properties.
• Develop and enforce design guidelines, including architectural, brand, furnishings, and safety standards.
• Oversee all phases of design projects--from concept to installation--ensuring alignment with brand, budget, and schedule.
• Manage outsourced design work and external consultant relationships.
• Integrate sustainable practices and emerging trends into design solutions.

• Project Management

• Direct planning, execution, and evaluation of multiple concurrent projects valued at $25M+ each.
• Define scopes, assign responsibilities, and monitor progress to ensure timely delivery.
• Conduct site reviews to maintain design intent through construction.
• Collaborate closely with development, construction, and operations teams.
• Manage consultant contracts, scopes of work, and pre-construction engineering selection.
• Oversee construction administration, including RFIs, ASIs, and shop drawing reviews.
• Capture and implement lessons learned for continuous improvement.

• Procurement & Vendor Management

• Oversee strategic procurement across multiple categories for design and construction.
• Manage a $250M+ budget, ensuring cost-effective, timely delivery of materials.
• Lead vendor selection, negotiation, and relationship management.
• Develop procurement policies, QA/QC processes, and inventory tracking systems.

What You Bring

• Experience: 15+ years in design leadership within hospitality, commercial, or related industries, managing large-scale projects from concept to completion.
• Leadership: Proven ability to inspire, develop, and retain high-performing teams.
• Design Expertise: Strong creative vision with refined aesthetic judgment, aligned with brand and operational needs.
• Collaboration: Skilled at working across disciplines with architects, engineers, contractors, and brand leaders.
• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of building codes, safety standards, and construction best practices.
• Tools: Proficient in SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and project management platforms.
• Trend Awareness: Up-to-date on sustainability, innovation, and hospitality design trends.
• Travel: Willing to travel up to 20% of the time across Canada and the US.

What We Offer

• Extended health, dental, and vision coverage
• Group life insurance
• Annual bonus opportunities
• RRSP matching (after 6 months)
• Company cell phone or monthly reimbursement
• Discounts at Northland hotels, resorts, and select restaurants
• Half-price lift tickets at Grouse Mountain and Revelstoke Mountain Resort
• Free mental health support & counselling
• A collaborative, friendly, and inclusive work environment
• The opportunity to shape the future of hospitality design in a growing organization

Join us and design spaces that inspire.
Northland Properties thanks all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Skills Required