Brooklyn New York 11205
USA
About the School of Design and the Interior Design Department
The School of Design at Pratt Institute educates curious makers to engage the world through the design of messages, objects, spaces, and systems. We believe design is a force for good—one that connects, sustains, empowers, and humanizes. Across four undergraduate and five graduate programs, the School sees design as an expansive, socially engaged practice.
The BFA and MFA Interior Design programs prepare students to critically examine occupiable space through theoretical and applied research. Graduates emerge as global innovators and practitioners equipped to address emerging technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, sustainability, ethical practice, and social responsibility. The curriculum bridges historical and contemporary perspectives while advancing new understandings of the interior built environment.
Position overview
The School of Design seeks a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as Chairperson of the Interior Design Department, beginning July 2026. The Chairperson will provide academic and administrative leadership for the department’s undergraduate BFA and graduate MFA programs, guiding their continued excellence, growth, and relevance. The position aligns with Pratt’s mission and strategic plan and supports interdisciplinary collaboration across the School.
Reporting to the Dean of the School of Design, the Chairperson will work closely with faculty, staff, and fellow department chairs to advance curriculum, research, and professional engagement. The Chair oversees 7 full-time faculty, approximately 75 part-time faculty, an Assistant Chair, and a Department Coordinator, and is responsible for the department’s overall management, academic direction, and long-term vision.
The ideal candidate brings a combination of academic leadership, professional practice, inclusive communication, and strategic planning experience, as well as a demonstrated commitment to Pratt’s values.
Key responsibilities
–Provide leadership and oversight for all academic programs within the department.
–Supervise curriculum development, assessment practices, and program reviews.
–Recruit, supervise, evaluate, and support the professional development of faculty and staff.
–Recruit and advise graduate students in collaboration with admissions; support undergraduate advising in coordination with Academic Advising.
–Manage the department budget, resource allocation, course scheduling, and facilities.
–Build and sustain relationships with professional organizations, practitioners, and industry partners.
–Collaborate with the Dean and Institutional Advancement to support fundraising and enhance the program’s visibility.
–Work with other School of Design departments to develop interdisciplinary curricula, shared resources, and events.
–Serve on department, school, and institute committees and represent the department on and off campus.
–Undertake special projects and additional responsibilities as assigned by the Dean.
Qualifications
Education
–MFA or equivalent degree in Interior Design or a related discipline.
Experience
–Demonstrated record of teaching in higher education.
–Administrative experience managing teams, budgets, facilities, and program development, preferably in an academic setting.
–Recognized creative scholarship and/or current professional practice in interior design or a related field.
–Preferred experience recruiting and mentoring a diverse community of educators and designers.
Skills and competencies
–Strong organizational, leadership, and management skills.
–Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication abilities.
–Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse populations.
–Commitment to supporting varied student pathways, research, and professional practices.
Appointment details
This is a twelve-month administrative appointment with a three-year renewable contract. The Chair may teach one course per semester in their area of expertise without additional compensation. The position requires five days per week on campus, with one day allocated for research.
Application process
Applicants should submit:
–Letter of intent outlining interest, qualifications, leadership experience, and vision for the department
–Statement addressing alignment of research, scholarship, and practice with Pratt’s values
–Curriculum vitae
–Portfolio of ten examples of professional/creative work
–Portfolio of ten examples of student work
–Contact information for three professional references (references will be contacted only with prior notice)
Application review begins February 9, 2026. The position will remain open through early interview stages and will close once finalists are selected.
Please note: Pratt Institute is unable to sponsor new H-1B visas for candidates residing outside the United States.
To apply, please visit here.
