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- Tasks: Lead architectural teams and manage projects from concept to completion.
- Company: Join a top UK architectural studio known for innovative and sustainable designs.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape impactful projects while working in a collaborative and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: ARB-registered Architect with experience in managing complex projects and teams.
- Other info: Work in a central London studio just a short walk from the Thames.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 70000 £ per year.
Job Title: Senior Associate / Project Director Location: London (Hybrid – 2 days/week in-office) Salary: Up to £70,000 per annum + benefits About the Practice Join one of the UK’s leading architectural studios based in central London, with a distinguished track record delivering bold, sustainable, and future-ready design solutions. With offices across the multiple nations, this global practice is renowned for shaping complex and high-profile projects across sectors including aviation, transport, healthcare, education, retail, and hospitality. From major international airports to award-winning educational campuses and rail hubs, this studio combines technical precision, aesthetic clarity, and environmental responsibility to bring ideas to life—whether on home ground or abroad. The Opportunity We’re seeking a talented and driven Senior Associate / Project Director to lead architectural teams and project portfolios across all RIBA stages. This is a strategic design, leadership, and business development role, offering significant scope to shape large-scale, technically demanding, and visually striking schemes. You’ll work directly from the central london studio (just a short walk from the Thames), with flexible hybrid working—balancing team presence and individual autonomy. Key Responsibilities of a Senior Associate / Project Director Design Leadership – Develop and drive design concepts across a diverse range of typologies and scales. Project Delivery – Lead projects from early briefing to completion (RIBA 0–7), ensuring efficient, profitable, and high-quality delivery. Team Management – Define team structures and provide clear leadership, mentoring, and line management. Commercial Oversight – Prepare and manage fee proposals; identify and mitigate commercial risks. Quality Assurance – Oversee audits, ensure compliance with best practice, and uphold industry-leading standards. Client & Business Development – Build and maintain networks that bring repeat business and new opportunities to the studio. What We’re Looking For ✔ ARB-registered Architect with strong design and technical credentials ✔ Demonstrated success managing teams and leading complex, multi-sector projects ✔ Excellent communication and client-facing skills ✔ Sound knowledge of UK building regulations and construction methodology ✔ Proficiency with sector-relevant design and management software ✔ A proactive leader with the ability to foster long-term relationships and identify commercial opportunities What’s in It for You * Competitive salary up to £70,000 * Hybrid working with 2+ days in the Blackfriars studio * Opportunity to lead major international and UK-based projects * Professional development and clear career progression * Collaborative, innovative, and supportive studio culture * Be part of a global team shaping sustainable, people-centred environments Apply Now Ready to make your mark? Submit your CV and portfolio, along with a brief cover letter, to (url removed)
Senior Associate/Project Director employer: Carrington West
Contact Detail:
Carrington West Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Associate/Project Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the architectural field, especially those who have experience in leading complex projects. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and clients, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable architecture and design. Being knowledgeable about innovative practices will not only enhance your discussions during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the values of our studio.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects you’ve led that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Highlight your role in managing teams and delivering successful outcomes, as this will showcase your leadership skills effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research our studio’s recent projects and initiatives. Understanding our portfolio will allow you to tailor your conversations and show how your experience and vision align with our goals, making you a more compelling candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Associate/Project Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as an ARB-registered Architect, focusing on your design and technical credentials. Emphasise your success in managing teams and leading complex projects, particularly in sectors relevant to the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your skills align with the key responsibilities, such as design leadership and project delivery, and provide examples of your past achievements that demonstrate your capabilities.
Showcase Your Portfolio: Include a portfolio that showcases your best work, particularly projects that reflect your ability to lead and deliver high-quality designs. Highlight any experience with large-scale or multi-sector projects, as this is crucial for the role.
Highlight Relevant Software Proficiency: Mention your proficiency with sector-relevant design and management software in both your CV and cover letter. This will demonstrate your technical skills and readiness to take on the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington West
✨Showcase Your Design Leadership
As a Senior Associate / Project Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead design concepts. Prepare examples of past projects where you took the lead, highlighting your creative vision and how it contributed to the project's success.
✨Emphasise Team Management Skills
This role requires strong team management capabilities. Be ready to discuss your experience in defining team structures, mentoring colleagues, and managing diverse teams. Share specific instances where your leadership made a difference in project delivery.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Acumen
Understanding commercial oversight is crucial for this position. Prepare to talk about your experience with fee proposals, risk management, and how you've successfully identified opportunities for business development in previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with UK Regulations
A solid knowledge of UK building regulations and construction methodology is essential. Brush up on relevant regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in your past projects to ensure compliance and quality assurance.
