ABOUT THE ROLE:
- Columbus, OH
- Onsite
- Full-Time – Benefits eligible
- Direct Hire
We’re looking for a visionary Creative Director specializing in experiential environments, interior architecture, and pre-construction design to lead our client’s creative team. You’ll oversee the design and development of immersive, branded spaces for specialty retail and restaurants, blending creativity with technical expertise.
This role requires a leader who can bridge creative vision with spatial and construction realities, collaborating with architects, engineers, and fabrication teams to bring compelling retail environments to life.
You’ll guide design strategy, mentor a multidisciplinary team, and work closely with stakeholders to deliver bold, innovative spaces that delight customers and elevate brands.
ABOUT OUR CLIENT:
DAILY RESPONSIBILITIES:
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Lead all creative and design efforts across retail, hospitality, and experiential interior environments
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Oversee projects from concept through pre-construction, ensuring design intent is carried through build-out
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Collaborate with cross-functional teams including architects, engineers, project managers, and contractors
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Inspire and mentor the design team, fostering a culture of creativity, growth, and accountability
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Balance design vision with client budgets, timelines, and construction feasibility
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Ensure materials and finishes align with both aesthetic and technical project requirements
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Present concepts and solutions persuasively to clients, stakeholders, and internal teams
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Play a critical role in business development by acting as a Subject Matter Expert in client pitches
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Integrate sustainable practices and explore innovative materials and design processes
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Drive a collaborative environment with hands-on leadership while empowering emerging talent
REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
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Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Environmental Design, or related field
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7–10+ years of experience designing retail, hospitality, or branded experiential environments
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At least 3 years in a leadership role guiding creative teams and overseeing large-scale projects
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Strong portfolio showcasing interior design for specialty retail, restaurants, or hospitality spaces
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Expertise in pre-construction design, construction documentation, and collaboration with architects/engineers
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Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Wacom, and AutoCAD (SketchUp, Revit a plus)
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Excellent public speaking and presentation skills for client pitches and design reviews
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Ability to lead creative vision while also being hands-on and detail-oriented when needed
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Collaborative mindset with proven ability to work across disciplines and departments
ABOUT US:
Portfolio Creative is an award-winning women-owned specialized staffing and recruiting company providing talent in the digital, marketing, and creative industries. We work with clients in several states, and employ candidates in and outside of Ohio. Please note, we do not have the ability to work with candidates outside of the U.S.
Portfolio Creative is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to have a diverse and inclusive workforce and are committed to ensuring all employees are recruited, assigned, and employed on a nondiscriminatory basis.
Job Number: 8444
