Senior Client-Side Design & Development Director Property Development | Construction Industry
Seeking Full-Time Role Opportunity
About
Client-side Property Design & Development Management
With over 20 years of dedicated experience in Australian property development, I bring a nuanced and collaborative approach to client-side developers, delivering design management that balances architectural innovation with pragmatic project delivery.
Merging my extensive background in architecture and interior design with Development and Project Management experience, I've held senior client-side positions as Design Director (Design Management) for leading ASX-listed developers like Sunland Group, The Star Entertainment Group and most recently, Vicinity Centres, where I bring strategic feasibility, multidisciplinary consultant appointments, and project-development management to converge seamlessly.
Specialising in premium luxury hospitality, residential mixed-use retail developments, and integrated resorts, I have been privileged to guide and collaborate on landmark projects that elevate the built environment and the guest and resident experience, while unlocking valuable returns.
My work is characterised by thoughtful design solutions grounded in thorough research and a deep understanding of property development objectives, operational requirements, and market dynamics.
Throughout my career, I have partnered with global brands and developers, ensuring that visionary concepts are realised as cohesive, inspiring spaces that stand the test of time. I believe that successful design management is built on clear communication, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, values that drive every project I undertake.
My experience with client-side leadership in Design Management and Development Management has helped shape iconic developments. I am passionate about contributing to Australia’s built form legacy with integrity, sophistication, and a future-forward perspective.
Available for Permanent Roles or In-House Contracting Engagements
What I Do, How I Help You
Role Overview: Client-Side Design Manager
What I Can Do for You
Design Management Across Property Development Delivery
Overseeing the entire design process to ensure coordination, consistency, and alignment with project goals. From concept through to delivery, I navigate complex multidisciplinary teams to drive excellence.Strategic Design & Master Planning
Providing high-level strategic insight that shapes master plans and leverages planning controls. I optimise planning through excellence in feasibility design, ensuring commercial viability for real estate, mixed-use developments, and integrated resorts by aligning design with market demand and aesthetic innovation.Feasibility and Risk Advisory
Offering clear, data-driven advice on project viability and risk mitigation to protect investments and maximise returns through test planning, approval opportunities (planning) & collaborative.Brand and Guest Experience Alignment
Ensuring the design effectively translates the brand identity and delivers exceptional guest experiences, thereby reinforcing the commercial and cultural value of your development.Interim Project or Design Leadership
Stepping in at key stages to provide leadership, streamline delivery, and maintain design integrity throughout construction phases.Delivery & Construction Collaboration
Working closely with construction teams and stakeholders to translate design intent into reality while managing timelines, costs, and quality benchmarks.
How I Help Clients Succeed
Dynamic Market Expertise
My in-depth understanding of brand expectations and market demands, supported by data-driven insights, enables me to craft design strategies that resonate with the most discerning clientele.Global Execution & Network
Leveraging international experience and an extensive professional network across Australia and the Asia-Pacific, I collaborate on high-end developments of the highest standard, on time and on budget.Commercially-driven Aesthetic Excellence
Merging compelling architectural vision with rigorous commercial analysis, I ensure your project achieves both captivating design and sustainable profitability.
I'm a seasoned collaborator and add value in property development through innovative design leadership, strategic foresight, and hands-on delivery expertise.
Together, we can create landmark developments that set new standards in the Australian and international markets.
Proven leadership in client-owned assets | Commercial Real Estate Property Development
In-house Design Management Strategic Value Offer
Providing in-house design management that delivers unparalleled strategic value to client-side operators and developers by embedding a clear, cohesive vision from project inception through to completion. I partner closely with developers to craft comprehensive briefs that set the foundation for success across all facets of design. My expertise encompasses:
Interior Design: Creating visionary concepts and practical solutions that enhance luxury hospitality, resort, and integrated property environments.
Architecture: Delivering best-in-class form and function, marrying aesthetic sophistication with operational excellence.
Masterplanning: Developing visionary placemaking strategies that optimise spatial, use, and commercial outcomes, ensuring long-term value and iconic status.
This integrated approach ensures design leadership grounded in global expertise and local market insight, enabling developers and operators to create exceptional, distinctive, and sustainable developments.
How I Can Help Your Team
Transform Complexity into Clarity
Break down multifaceted design challenges into actionable steps, ensuring the entire team understands goals and deliverables.
Elevate Design Outcomes
Bring an international perspective and luxury hospitality experience that raises the bar for innovative, functional design.Drive Timely Delivery
Navigate the intricacies of large-scale projects to keep design milestones on track without sacrificing creative vision.Ensure Brand Consistency
Safeguard and enhance brand identity through meticulous design oversight tailored to global hospitality standards.Reduce Project Risks
Pre-empt disruptive design issues with thorough reviews and clear communication strategies to keep development sound.Empower Design Teams
Provide mentorship and clear direction, fostering confidence and accountability across design disciplines.Maximise ROI on Design Investment
Deliver design solutions that balance luxury, durability, and cost-effectiveness for long-term asset value.
Design management is the art of bringing creativity and strategy together to create environments that inspire and endure. It ensures every detail, from initial concept through to final delivery, reflects the client’s vision, strengthens their brand, and meets business goals. By fostering seamless collaboration among diverse teams, design management transforms ideas into cohesive, innovative spaces that resonate culturally and function effortlessly. It is through this collective effort and focused leadership that design becomes a powerful tool for elevating experience and delivering meaningful impact.
— Shannon Cloete, Senior Design Manager
Collaboration
Clients & Brand Partners
Lets get Social
Let’s Connect
Open to full-time or part-time roles across Australia and the Asia Pacific region, offering leadership in global design and development management. Ready to connect immediately and contribute to your project’s success. Please reach out to explore opportunities.
Contact: contact@shannoncloete.com