Operations Manager (Interior Design, Architecture, or Creative Firm)

Role: Design Operations Manager
Hours: 9am - 6pm Central Time
Hourly Wage: $8.00 - $12.00 (Open to negotiation based on experience)

Lago is looking for a proactive and experienced Design Operations Manager to oversee and streamline our design processes. In this role, you will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure that design projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. You will be responsible for optimizing workflows, enhancing collaboration among designers, and implementing best practices in the design process. Your expertise will be crucial in creating a cohesive vision across all design projects while ensuring that the team's creative output aligns with the strategic goals of the organization.

If you have a solid background in design operations and a passion for improving team efficiency while fostering a vibrant and creative environment, you will be an excellent fit for our team. Join Lago and play a key role in shaping our design initiatives and delivering exceptional creative solutions.

Responsibilities

General Administration & Internal Coordination

• Manage daily administrative tasks including scheduling, file organization, and inbox triage
• Oversee client onboarding, nurturing, and offboarding with polished professionalism
• Maintain and update internal templates, contracts, and intake forms (Canva, Google Docs, etc.)
• Assist with implementing systems to improve efficiency across the team

Project Coordination & Workflow Management

• Own project timelines, milestone tracking, and internal task management
• Coordinate with clients, vendors, and contractors to ensure project timelines stay on track
• Utilize tools like Motion or ClickUp to manage and visualize workflow
• Troubleshoot issues and ensure seamless coordination across roles

Process Optimization & SOP Development

• Build and refine SOPs for the full design lifecycle
• Document team processes and ensure consistent adoption of tools and systems
• Improve communication pathways internally and externally
• Identify bottlenecks and recommend operational improvements

Procurement & Vendor Management

• Oversee FF&E purchases, vendor coordination, and delivery timelines
• Track all procurement details in real-time (budgets, shipping, install readiness)
• Maintain vendor relationships, negotiate pricing, and schedule deliveries
• Organize and support white-glove delivery and installation timelines

Budgeting & Financial Oversight

• Monitor project budgets and identify any overages early
• Assist with invoicing, retainer tracking, and coordinating client/vendor payments
• Track margins and markup compliance across purchases
• Partner with leadership to improve financial tracking and reporting

Team Support & Internal Operations

• Act as a support partner to the Principal Designer and broader team
• Coordinate internal meetings, vendor presentations, and jobsite walkthroughs (virtual/in-person)
• Support team hiring and onboarding processes when needed
• Contribute to building a collaborative and efficient team culture

Installations & On-Site Execution

• Prepare for install days by confirming delivery logistics and styling checklists
• Coordinate final walkthroughs and address any last-minute needs
• Ensure installation day aligns with creative vision and brand standards

Client Communication & Support

• Communicate proactively and professionally with clients throughout the project lifecycle
• Provide regular updates regarding logistics, timelines, and deliverables
• Escalate design-related questions to appropriate team members
• Gather client feedback and flag any concerns early

Technology & Systems Management

• Manage tools like Program and cloud-based systems (G Suite, ClickUp, etc.)
• Ensure smooth digital workflows for proposals, presentations, invoicing, and tracking
• Keep documents organized, accessible, and securely backed up
• Recommend tools and improvements that support scalability and quality

Requirements

• Experience: 3+ years in operations, project management, or administration—ideally in design, architecture, or creative industries

• Tools: Proficient in project management tools (ClickUp, Motion), G Suite, Canva
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Mindset: Highly organized, proactive, resourceful, and adaptable
• Multitasking: Able to manage multiple timelines, requests, and moving parts with confidence
• Bonus Experience: FF&E procurement, vendor management, logistics, affiliate marketing, or eCommerce

• Remote Work: Work from anywhere—our team is global, and we value work-life balance.

• Growth Opportunities: As a key player i you’ll have the chance to shape your role and grow with us.

• Innovative Culture: Join a team that is passionate about leveraging data to solve challenges and drive success in a rapidly evolving market.