Managing Director NY Studio
At Unispace, we are committed to transforming workplaces to meet the diverse needs of today’s dynamic global brands. Our agile, end-to-end approach is delivered seamlessly across borders, fueled by strong client partnerships and supported by insightful workplace intelligence and innovative technology.
We believe that everyone deserves to work in an environment that inspires productivity, fosters peak performance, and promotes overall well-being. Across our 48 global studios, we recognize that positive work environments cultivate open, collaborative, and supportive cultures, enriched by the contributions of independent and motivated individuals from all backgrounds.
While our core business revolves around strategizing, designing, and building workplaces for some of the world's leading brands, we understand that our people are our greatest asset. We prioritize their growth and well-being through a comprehensive Employee Value Proposition program that includes rewards and recognition, career development opportunities, and a strong focus on mental and physical well-being.
To further support our team, we embrace flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options that empower our employees to balance in-office collaboration with remote work flexibility. This approach not only enhances work-life balance but also allows us to harness the full potential of our diverse and talented workforce.
Why you’re here:
As the Managing Director, you will provide strategic leadership and operational direction to Unispace’s New York studio. You’ll play a key role in fostering a high-performing team, driving business growth, and ensuring exceptional client service aligned with our full methodology. This is an opportunity to shape Unispace New York's operations by developing market-specific strategies, building client relationships, and nurturing a culture of collaboration and excellence.
What you’re responsible for:
- Establish and lead high-performing teams across the New York studio, supporting Discipline Leads in recruitment, talent development, and performance management.
- Develop and execute a strategic plan that focuses on resource allocation, client acquisition, team growth, and operational excellence.
- Drive Unispace’s market presence as a visible ambassador, understanding local market trends, cultural nuances, and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with global and regional leaders to align New York operations with Unispace’s broader strategic objectives.
- Build and nurture strategic relationships with clients, project managers, and industry agents to expand Unispace’s portfolio and secure repeat business.
- Develop and implement client strategies tailored to local market needs, ensuring alignment with global goals.
- Identify new business opportunities, lead client presentations, and drive revenue growth by achieving pre-agreed sales targets.
- Maintain insight into project and client profitability throughout project lifecycles.
- Oversee adoption and effective use of key systems, including Salesforce, Procore, Revit, and more.
- Provide financial oversight, including reporting on sales, gross profit, labor costs, and pipeline projections.
- Ensure risk management strategies are in place and address legal, reputational, and financial risks in collaboration with global functions.
- Foster collaboration across disciplines, studios, and corporate functions, ensuring seamless operations and alignment with Unispace culture and values.
- This section is for measurable KPIs
- It is intended to prepare a candidate on what’s expected of them
- Focus on things like “Presentations are fit for purpose and meet client standards” or “Projects are delivered within scope and on budget”
How we’ll measure it:
- Build and maintain high-performing, collaborative teams aligned with Unispace’s culture and values.
- Achieve sales targets, drive pipeline growth, and ensure high sales conversion rates with target clients.
- Deliver an exceptional client experience, resulting in repeat business and a strong local reputation.
- Maintain consistency in standards, technology solutions, and processes across studios while managing risks effectively.
- Position Unispace as a competitive leader in the New York market by driving service excellence and gaining market share.
Your experience & skills:
- Proven leadership in managing and developing high-performing teams.
- Exceptional client relationship management and networking abilities.
- Strong commercial awareness and business acumen.
- Expertise in contract negotiation, procurement processes, and pitching to clients.
- Excellent communication, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to collaborate across diverse teams and geographies.
- Extensive knowledge of the New York market, including local industry trends and regulatory requirements.
- Track record of driving business growth and achieving revenue targets in competitive markets.
- Experience in managing complex, multi-disciplinary teams and projects.
- Background in commercial real estate, design, or project management is advantageous.
- Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience and location
The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person(s) assigned to this job. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.
We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply, and we are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, allowing them to perform essential job functions as determined on a case-by-case basis.
Inclusion and Diversity Commitment:
At Unispace, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity hiring and will evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition (as defined by state law), physical or mental disability, military service, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We are proud that our leadership reflects this commitment, with persons of color, women, neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ individuals playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of our organization. Their unique perspectives and experiences drive innovation and help us create a truly inclusive culture. We are dedicated to ensuring that every voice is heard and that our workplace is a space where diversity is not only celebrated but is integral to our success.
