Role Overview:
Fort Standard is seeking a Studio Director to work closely with the Principal to support the growth and success of the business. This role will play a key part in translating the company's vision into actionable strategies, operational systems, and team initiatives across our furniture, hardware, and home goods collections.
We are a small, ambitious team dedicated to designing, developing, and producing original work of the highest caliber. The ideal candidate is highly organized, business-minded, and comfortable taking ownership within a collaborative, founder-led environment. This is a leadership role for someone who enjoys building systems, supporting teams, and helping a creative business scale. A genuine appreciation for design is essential.
The position spans operations, business development, sales, marketing, and team management, and may be tailored to the strengths of the right candidate. We welcome applicants from a variety of professional backgrounds; however, prior employee management experience is required.
The Studio Director should thrive in a small-team environment and bring energy, initiative, and adaptability to the role. Success in this position requires the ability to create structure and accountability while remaining flexible and responsive to evolving priorities.
Please note that our office and showroom share a space with our woodshop in an industrial building in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Cleanliness and organization are paramount throughout every area of our studio, all of which are fully climate-controlled.
Requirements:
Driven by business operations, growth, and continuous improvement
Self-starter with a proactive, action-oriented mindset
Passionate about building strong teams and positive company culture
Enjoys high-level strategy and the responsibility to execute projects
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and skilled at managing multiple priorities
Strong problem-solving abilities, with comfort navigating ambiguity and balancing creativity with operational discipline
Enjoys collaboration in a process-driven studio
Genuine appreciation for design and the creative process
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, no matter the audience or format
Diplomatic and professional
5+ years of experience in a management, operations, business development, or leadership role, including direct employee management responsibility
Experience in sales and marketing to trade and/or wholesale clients
Confident working directly with high-end residential and commercial clients
Flexible and willing to provide support outside standard business hours when needed
Beneficial Experience:
Basic knowledge of Monday or similar, Excel, Google Workspace and QuickBooks
Basic knowledge of ADP/ADP Total Source
Basic knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite
Active participant in the NYC Design, Architecture, or related communities
Fort Standard is a Brooklyn-based contemporary design studio and manufacturer specializing in heirloom-quality, made-to-order furniture and lighting. Through an obsessive commitment to materials, craftsmanship, and original design, we create enduring pieces that generate lasting value. We work closely with interior designers, architects, developers, and private clients, and seek team members who share our pride in producing exceptional work.
