Mandarin Oriental is looking for a Director, Architecture & Design to join our Technical Services – Architecture & Design team.

Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, acting with integrity, respect, and responsibility? Do you embrace a growth mindset and take pride in delivering the exceptional? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional.

Mandarin Oriental is the award‑winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts, and residences, located in the most prestigious destinations globally. Celebrated for legendary service inspired by Asian heritage, the Group continues to shape the future of luxury hospitality through thoughtful design, innovation, and a strong global development pipeline.

Based at the Corporate Office in London, within the Technical Services – Architecture & Design function, the Director, Architecture & Design plays a strategic role in defining and safeguarding Mandarin Oriental’s design excellence across the EMEA region.

The role is responsible for ensuring that new developments and major projects reflect the brand’s guest‑centric philosophy, seamlessly integrate technology and sustainability, and translate a deep understanding of place into refined, luxury product experiences.

The position reports to the Group Director of Architecture & Design and works in close partnership with Development, Technical Services, Brand, and regional leadership teams.

As Director, Architecture & Design, you will be responsible for the following duties:

Development Support – Accelerate

• Partner with Development and Regional Technical Services teams to evaluate planning and design of new projects at pre‑HMA stage.

• Recommend design improvements to ensure alignment with Mandarin Oriental’s ambition, positioning, and guest experience standards.

• Contribute to the Vision & Positioning (PULSE) process through strong understanding of local markets and regional product nuances.

• Deliver project‑specific Design Briefs aligned with the agreed Vision for each development.

• Lead the selection of Architects and Interior Designers capable of delivering the brand vision.

• Inspire and influence owners and development partners to adopt Mandarin Oriental’s design direction and recommendations.

• Maintain the Group’s leadership in luxury hotel and resort design by championing innovation and best‑in‑class design talent.

Project Support – Elevate

• Support Project Leaders in delivering exceptional design outcomes by leading and shaping design conversations with consultants and partners.

• Review mock‑up room (MUR) designs and associated documentation.

• Conduct detailed space planning and layout reviews for guestrooms and all public areas including Restaurants & Bars, Spa, and MICE.

• Lead the briefing and review process for Speciality Suites.

• Support Regional Technical Services teams with major CAPEX and Strategic Asset Management initiatives.

• Track progress and communicate updates to leadership and key stakeholders.

Brand Innovation

• Demonstrate design leadership and initiative across all projects and internal initiatives.

• Collaborate with internal teams to define ad‑hoc research and consumer insight requirements.

• Drive the development and evolution of Mandarin Oriental’s Processes, Tools, Product Standards & Guidelines (PS\&G).

• Propose, research, trial, and implement innovative design and product solutions that elevate the guest experience.

• Actively contribute to brand innovation, sustainability principles, and global Technical Services initiatives.

• Support the Group Director of Architecture & Design on global priorities and initiatives as required.

As Director, Architecture & Design, we expect from you:

• University degree (or equivalent) in Architecture and/or Interior Design.

• 15+ years’ experience in luxury hotel and resort development, interior design, and construction.

• Proven senior leadership experience within luxury hospitality or comparable high‑end environments.

• Recognised expertise in luxury hotel and branded residence interior design.

• Strong spatial planning, sketching, and design review capabilities.

• Solid understanding of industry standards, codes, and sustainability frameworks (e.g. LEED).

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex design and construction processes across multiple projects.

• Strategic mindset with strong analytical, organisational, and problem‑solving skills.

• Proficiency in MS Office, AutoCAD, Revu‑Bluebeam, and relevant design tools.

• Collaborative, culturally sensitive, and confident in influencing owners and senior stakeholders.

• Fluent in English; additional languages are welcome.

• Willingness to travel within the EMEA region as required.

Our commitment to you

Learning & Development
Your success is our success. We provide tailored learning and development programmes to support your continuous growth.

MOstay
As a member of the #MOfamily, enjoy complimentary stays and attractive rates across Mandarin Oriental properties worldwide.

Health & Colleague Wellness
Your wellbeing matters to us. A range of health and wellness benefits are offered globally.

Rewards & Benefits
We offer a competitive senior leadership compensation and benefits package, aligned with local policies.

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