designer or contractor needed?

I just closed on a 1 bedroom coop in Harlem and want to make some improvements before we move in but I am not sure who would be the right person to manage the job. We want to paint, replace all appliances in kitchen, replace bathroom sink/vanity, install open shelving and HVAC covers (cabinetmaker) and buy furniture. I don't think any of this will require permits but I don't know for sure. The catch is we live overseas and won't move in full time for 6 months and we want to have it done beforehand. We plan on visiting NYC at least three times over the next few months for a week or two at a time but won't be there to supervise the work full-time So what would be the right person to supervise the work and design the space while communicating with us from overseas?