Project Design Intern

Project Design Intern – Global VM & Display Team

We are offering an exciting 3‑month summer placement within our Global VM & Display team, from June–August 2026. This opportunity is ideal for a creative, detail‑oriented design student or graduate looking to gain hands‑on experience delivering innovative retail environments and immersive brand spaces. You will play a key role in supporting the team to deliver creative objectives over the summer while helping prepare for the AW26 season.

You will spend 2 months working alongside the Senior Project Designer and 1 month independently managing projects to keep timelines and deliverables on track. You will support with the design and delivery of innovative temporary spaces, pop‑ups and showrooms that communicate our brand's tone of voice. You'll work under the direction of the Global Head of VM & Display and in alignment with the overall creative direction set by the Head of Creative.

Please note, this role requires that you submit an online link to a portfolio containing work examples as part of your application. This should be available for 4 weeks after the advert closing date.

• Support with the design of pop‑up concepts, showrooms and temporary display spaces in line with the global display strategy.
• Independently design pop‑up projects across the UK, Europe and US retail markets.
• Produce exceptional 3D renders for presentation to Sir Paul Smith and the wider business.
• Develop projects from initial concept through to final installation, providing all relevant technical design detail for local production.
• Create graphics, artworks, technical drawings and 3D renderings to support remote teams in sourcing props and vinyl locally.
• Provide scaled documentation and visual mock‑ups to ensure design accuracy and consistency.
• Support the Global Head of VM & Display on additional creative projects as required.
• Maintain organised and accessible project folders on the shared drive for the wider team.

• High‑level proficiency in computer design packages such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketch Up and Vectorworks.
• Appreciation of colour and imagery, with spatial awareness.
• High attention to detail.
• Creative flair in terms of presentation of product & space.
• Excellent, finely‑tuned inter‑personal skills.
• Highly organised with good prioritisation skills and able to work to set deadlines.
• Ability to work with different business partners in various locations.
• Available to work from June–August 2026.

• Hybrid working and flexi‑time.
• A discretionary discount on Paul Smith products.
• Opportunities to gain exposure to international retail design work.
• Mentorship from senior designers and the Head of VM & Display.

To apply, submit a CV, portfolio link and any relevant samples in the format specified below. Please ensure your file names include your name (e.g., “_cv.docx”). Files must be less than 4 MB. Allowed file types: txt, pdf, doc, docx, rtf, jpg, jpeg, png.

Founded in Nottingham in the 1970’s, the Paul Smith collections have become internationally recognised. The brand, known for its distinctive blend of classic and contemporary design, operates globally with a focus on apparel, footwear, accessories and licensed products across fragrance, eyewear and interior design.