VP of Design Innovation
Summary
Leads architectural and design innovation for senior living projects, managing concept-to-execution workflows, regulatory compliance, and cross-functional teams to deliver aligned design solutions.
POSITION SUMMARY
NexCore Group, a national leader in healthcare real estate and senior living development, is seeking a Vice President of Design & Innovation to help lead programming, planning, and design across our Senior Living portfolio. This role blends architectural rigor with design, and development capability, serving as a design subject matter expert, design decision maker, and strategic contributor to early-stage pursuits.
The VP, Design & Innovation manage all aspects of the design of projects from concept through execution. This is an opportunity for a high-potential architect (10–15 years) with deep Senior Living Design experience who is ready to step beyond traditional practice into a broader real estate development environment.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Design Leadership & Architectural Planning
- Serve as a design expert, representing NexCore and Experience Senior Living in early visioning and throughout project delivery.
- Lead architectural programming, building concepts, operational flow diagrams, blocking and stacking, unit design, and interior design.
- Develop test fits, site plans, landscape concepts, parking plans, and interior layout solutions that align with operational, regulatory, and brand standards.
- Design, draw and render conceptual site plans, floor plans, building exteriors and interiors for presentations, and for design team direction.
- Review, critique, and elevate design work across multiple concurrent projects including interior design concepts, FF&E coordination, lighting, RCPs, flooring schedules, art selection, and finish standards.
- Apply codes, FGI guidelines, AHJs, and licensing requirements to ensure regulatory compliance.
- Lead or support the generation and review of 3D renderings, visualizations, and presentation materials.
- Assist in developing, refining, and documenting NexCore’s brand, design, and planning standards.
Design Consultant Coordination & Project Management
- Coordinate multidisciplinary teams including architects, civil, MEP, structural, interior designers, and specialty consultants to ensure alignment, quality, and milestone achievement.
- Review consultant deliverables, synthesize feedback, and drive consensus among internal stakeholders, operations teams, and healthcare clients.
- Support development, construction, and capital teams in managing design decision-making aligned with schedule, cost, and pro forma requirements.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
- Accredited degree in Architecture.
- Active architectural license (NCARB).
- 10–15 years of experience, with a focus on Senior Living Design.
- Strong capability in programming, planning, workflows, and technical design.
- Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and 3D modeling tools (SketchUp, Rhino, or similar).
- Proven ability to engage with clients and design teams in a polished, professional manner.
- Demonstrated interest, aptitude, in development, client meetings, proposals, interviews, or industry engagement.
Attributes of the Ideal Candidate
- High-potential “up-and-comer” showing clear trajectory toward senior leadership.
- Desire to work beyond architecture and in development, operations, and strategy.
- Relationship-building mindset; consultative, collaborative, and empathetic to Senior Living needs.
- Comfortable managing multiple deadlines and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.
- Strategic thinker with curiosity, humility, and strong professional presence.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & TRAVEL
- Based in Denver HQ; hybrid options may be available.
- National travel expected (estimated 20–30%, flexing with project needs).
- Fast-paced, highly collaborative environment with cross-functional exposure across Development, Capital, Construction, Senior Living Operations, and Design.
Benefits
- Compensation: $160,000 - $175,000 / year
- Eligible for discretionary benefits: performance bonus
- Eligible for standard employee benefit elections: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, FSA, HSA, Commuter Benefits, Employee Assistance Program, Life Insurance (employee and dependents), Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D), vacation days, sick days, and other benefits
Disclaimer:
NexCore Group knows that when we welcome different points of view, it makes us better, stronger, and moves us boldly forward in becoming a world-class company. That is why we’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage all qualified talent to apply. Your application will be reviewed regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.
If you are interested in applying for a position with NexCore Group and need special assistance or an accommodation to use our website, please contact HR@NexCoregroup.com