Design & Development Manager

About JETSET Pilates Franchising

At JETSET Pilates Franchising, we pioneer a unique franchise model in the fitness industry, offering Modern Pilates classes and a curated selection of fitness-related products. Our business model is centered on establishing a strong brand image, cultivating exceptional relationships with franchisees, and delivering outstanding client services. We operate in a dynamic, fast-paced startup environment where adaptability and innovation are crucial for success.

Position Overview

The Design & Development Manager plays a pivotal role in JETSET’s development and operations ecosystem. This person bridges creative vision with operational execution - protecting the brand experience through early design validation while optimizing vendor relationships across our national franchise network.

Reporting to the Director of Construction, this leader will work closely with both the Real Estate & Construction, Operations, and Marketing teams to ensure every new studio meets JETSET’s aesthetic, functional, and financial standards from the very first step of site selection.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of design, operations, and strategic vendor management - someone who can balance creative instincts with disciplined process and partnership relationship management.

• Design Leadership
• Own the test fit process for all new franchise locations—develop quick-turn test fits and layout concepts to validate site feasibility before architectural engagement
• Maintain and evolve prototype studio layouts and standards that protect the brand’s design integrity and optimize functionality across varying footprints, while optimizing revenue potential per square foot
• Collaborate with the Real Estate & Construction team to evaluate potential sites, providing design-based input on space planning, flow, and brand consistency
• Serve as an internal design advocate, ensuring that early development decisions align with the JETSET brand experience and operational standards

• Vendor & Partner Management
• Oversee day-to-day relationships with JETSET’s source-restricted and preferred vendors across categories such as architecture, signage, millwork, equipment, facilities, amenities, and more
• Ensure vendor accountability, service quality, and pricing consistency systemwide
• Lead ongoing cost and performance evaluations to ensure JETSET’s franchisor buying power translates into tangible value for franchisees
• Manage consistent rhythm of vendor reviews, performance scorecards, and contract renewals
• Partner with department heads to identify, vet, and onboard new vendor partners that enhance both the franchisee and client experience

• Strategic Collaboration
• Partner cross-functionally with Real Estate, Construction, Operations, and Marketing to maintain alignment between studio design, brand identity, and operational excellence
• Provide design insight during franchise onboarding and site selection calls
• Support long-term scalability by helping define standards and playbooks for vendor sourcing, accountability, and communication

• Continuous Improvement
• Document and refine internal workflows for test fits, vendor approvals, and studio layout iterations
• Identify opportunities to streamline design feedback loops between HQ, vendors, and franchisees
• Monitor industry trends in retail design, studio layouts, and material sourcing to keep JETSET ahead of the curve

• What You Need to Be Successful
• You have an eye for design but think like an operator, and you care about beauty and flow as much as efficiency and cost.
• You are a systems thinker who can design scalable processes that keep a fast-growing network consistent and efficient.
• You thrive in environments where you’re trusted to create clarity, build structure, and collaborate across multiple departments.

• Key Attributes
• Brand Stewardship – Protect and evolve the JETSET experience through design discipline and vendor excellence
• Strategic Operator – Able to balance design sensibility with practical business and cost considerations
• Relationship Builder – Skilled in vendor management, negotiation, and partnership development
• Problem Solver – Adept at translating complex challenges into actionable design or process improvements
• Detail-Oriented Communicator – Strong visual and written communication skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience)
• 5+ years of experience in design management, architecture, or construction coordination (franchise or multi-unit retail preferred)
• Strong proficiency in space planning software (AutoCAD or Bluebeam)
• Experience managing or sourcing vendors across multiple categories
• Understanding of design documentation, construction processes, and brand standards
• Exceptional project management and communication skills; ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-growth environment

• This is a hybrid role with significant on-site presence at the HQ office in Miami, FL, at least three days per week. 10-15% travel for project closeout and vendor meetings.

JETSET Pilates is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inviting work environment for all team members.