Managing Partner

Shape the future of design in Aotearoa.

Who We Are:

For nearly 50 years, we've been all‑in on design. Trusted partners to businesses of every scale and category. We combine strategic clarity, design craft, and cultural insight to create brands that endure.

Proudly one of Aotearoa's most awarded design agencies, recognised globally for our craft, strategy, and storytelling - from Best Awards to D&AD, Type Directors Club and AGDA.

Our history is long, but our focus is sharp: building brands that move people, connect deeply, and deliver lasting impact.

That's design that works.

The Role:

We're looking for a visionary Managing Partner to lead our Auckland based studio. This is a critical leadership position for a commercial leader who understands the power of design to transform business.

You will build deep client trust, deliver mutual commercial growth and ensure that our studio's work consistently solves our clients' biggest challenges.

Your leadership will be the catalyst for our evolution. You will foster a culture where creativity thrives and empower our team to reach new heights.

Key Responsibilities:

• Client Partnership:
  Act as a trusted advisor to our key clients, understanding their complex business challenges and translating them into strategic opportunities.
• Studio Leadership:
  Inspire and mentor a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
• Commercial Growth:
  Drive Designworks P&L, identifying new business opportunities and ensuring the commercial health and sustainability of the business.
• Strategic Vision:
  Work closely with the Executive team and other key Partners to evolve the Designworks offering, staying ahead of emerging trends.
• Operational Excellence:
  Oversee the smooth running of the studio, ensuring resources are managed effectively and projects are delivered on time and on budget.

About You:

You're a seasoned agency leader with a "design-led" mindset. You don't need to be a designer by trade, but you must have a deep appreciation for the design process and the ability to sell bold ideas.

• Experience:
  10+ years in a senior leadership role within a creative, design, or brand agency environment.
• Commercial Acumen:
  Proven track record in managing P&L's, driving revenue growth, and winning new business pitches.
• Connector:
  You have an extensive network in the NZ business community and the ability to build genuine, long-lasting relationships.
• People First:
  You lead with empathy and energy, capable of navigating the highs and lows of agency life while keeping morale high.
• Strategic Thinker:
  You can see the big picture and articulate the ROI of design to stakeholders at the highest level.

Why Join Us?

Here's just some of what makes Designworks a great place to work:

• Legacy & Impact:
  Work with a prestigious portfolio of brands.
• Growth:
  Direct access to global networks and opportunities for professional evolution.
• Culture:
  A team that celebrates diversity, creativity, and "good humans."
• Summer Days:
  5 paid half days off each Summer.
• Birthday Leave:
  A paid day off to celebrate your Birthday each year.
• Loyalty Leave:
  An additional days leave for each year of tenure, up to a maximum of 5 days.
• Employee Assistance Programme:
  Offering 24/7 support.
• PerkSPACE:
  A dedicated platform for employee benefits that help you save, grow and generally make life easier.
• Parental Leave:
  Company paid time off for new parents.

Designworks is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

Designworks is a WPP Agency. For more information, follow Designworks on our social channels via Instagram and LinkedIn.

If you have the vision to lead a legacy agency into its next era, we'd love to hear from you.

To apply, please include your CV and a cover letter.