Design Manager

What you’ll do

The role sits within IHG’s Hotel Lifecycle & Growth (HL&G) function and works closely with Development, Engineering and Interior Design. Together, these teams assess project viability for management or franchising, shape design strategies, and deliver brand-aligned solutions from feasibility through to opening and handover.

You will manage assigned design and technical activities across new build, conversion, acquisition and refurbishment projects. You will apply architectural, technical and commercial judgement, collaborate with owners, developers and internal stakeholders, and support design solutions that balance brand standards, guest experience, owner return on investment, operational efficiency and delivery quality.

Key responsibilities

• Collaborate with the regional Development team to assess the viability of projects for management or franchising under an IHG brand, supporting design strategies that contribute to signings and long-term asset performance.
• Work closely with Engineering and Interior Design to develop practical, innovative and brand-aligned design solutions, helping to resolve project challenges effectively.
• Partner with senior Design colleagues to align design initiatives with owner investment objectives, brand vision and project requirements, and support the presentation of design concepts at key stages of the project lifecycle.
• Manage the review of potential hotel projects in line with IHG Brand Standards and design guidelines, covering concept and detailed design, documentation, inspections and pre-opening readiness.
• Support owners throughout the project lifecycle under the Technical Services Agreement, helping to maintain timely progress, clear decisions and effective communication on cost, resources, programme and brand compliance.
• Work closely with Brand Safety, Engineering, Interior Design and wider internal teams on matters affecting new build, conversion and refurbishment projects to maintain consistency in standards and delivery quality.
• Provide market and project feedback to brand teams on emerging trends and recurring challenges to support the ongoing development of brand standards, design guides and requirements.
• Prepare project reports, maintain deliverables schedules and provide accurate updates on progress, risks and compliance with agreed deadlines.
• Identify and support process improvements that enhance quality, efficiency and stakeholder experience.
• Support sustainability initiatives aligned with IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow agenda.

https://careers.ihg.com/en/job-details/?jobref=Design+Manager+Italy+Remote%7cGB%7c169812#178555