Studio Director

Company: Studio LIFE/STYLE
Location: Los Angeles
Posted on: February 16, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Salary: to be discussed The Studio Director is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the internal operations, project management systems, and organizational health of Studio LIFE/STYLE. Acting as the operational and logistical backbone of the firm, this person ensures that projects run efficiently, teams are supported, and the principals can focus on big-picture strategy, design leadership, and creative direction. This role requires a strong balance of business acumen and operational expertise, with a deep understanding of how design studios function. The Studio Director will develop, implement, and manage internal systems; oversee team structure and HR processes; and collaborate closely with the Finance Partner to ensure financial clarity and forecasting accuracy. The ideal candidate is proactive, solutions-oriented, and capable of both strategic thinking and hands-on management. Key Responsibilities Studio Operations & Management Oversee the day-to-day operations of the studio, ensuring clear communication, structure, and accountability across all teams. Develop, implement, and maintain efficient internal systems, workflows, and processes that support project execution and studio growth. Partner with the Principal to translate big-picture goals into actionable operational strategies. Serve as the central point of contact for resolving project or team-related issues before escalation to the principals. Ensure deadlines, budgets, and deliverables are met through effective coordination between project managers, designers, and vendors. Project Oversight & Support Work closely with Senior Project Managers and Project Managers to ensure projects are properly staffed, scheduled, and resourced. Monitor project health budgets, timelines, and deliverables providing guidance or intervention when needed. Support project teams in problem-solving logistical, contractual, or resourcing challenges to maintain project momentum. Coordinate with the Design Principal on creative staffing needs and the Business Principal on financial feasibility and workload projections. Finance, Reporting & Forecasting Oversee the use of Studio Designer (or similar project management software), ensuring accurate data entry and reporting across all teams. Generate and review monthly financial reports and projections in collaboration with the Finance Partner. Provide the principals with clear insights on studio profitability, resource utilization, and capacity planning. Support the preparation of contracts and fee proposals for new business opportunities in collaboration with the Business Principal. Track project billing, expenses, and profitability to ensure financial accountability and transparency. HR, Staffing & Culture Oversee day-to-day HR operations in partnership with the studios HR consultant, including onboarding, reviews, and performance management. Ensure the organizational structure supports the studios needs, with clear roles, responsibilities, and reporting lines. Collaborate with the principals to determine staffing needs, manage recruitment efforts, and oversee employee growth plans. Supervise and support the Office Manager and/or Design Assistant, ensuring they are aligned with studio priorities. Help maintain a positive, professional, and creative studio culture rooted in accountability, communication, and mutual respect. Systems, Tools & Process Improvement Evaluate and refine studio systems for efficiency and scalability, including project management, finance tracking, and communications tools. Ensure consistency in documentation, contracts, and deliverables across teams. Train team members on studio standards and workflows to maintain consistency and quality. Proactively identify gaps or inefficiencies and propose strategic solutions. Leadership & Communication Act as a bridge between the principals and the broader teamtranslating vision into action and maintaining transparency on progress and priorities. Lead regular all-studio and project management meetings to align teams and ensure accountability. Support the principals by managing day-to-day studio needs and freeing them to focus on creative, strategic, and relationship-building priorities. Uphold and embody the values and standards of Studio LIFE/STYLE in all internal and external interactions. Partnership & Collaboration Collaborate closely on design team management, staffing needs, and project oversight; ensure creative priorities are supported by operational systems. Partner on financial forecasting, contracts, and business operations to maintain studio health and sustainability. With the Finance Partner: Manage ongoing reporting, projections, and budget reviews to provide accurate insights to leadership. With the HR Consultant: Oversee employee relations, staffing processes, and compliance. Qualifications 812 years of experience in operations, production, or management within an interior design, architecture, or creative studio environment. Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and oversee multiple projects simultaneously. Strong financial literacy and proficiency in Studio Designer (required). Demonstrated experience implementing studio systems, workflows, and process improvements. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Ability to balance structure with flexibility in a creative, fast-paced environment. Deep understanding of the interior design process and its operational demands.

Keywords: Studio LIFE/STYLE, Torrance , Studio Director, Human Resources , Los Angeles, California