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- Tasks: Lead design strategy and narrative development for global architecture projects.
- Company: Join a globally recognised architecture and urbanism studio known for innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a creative environment that encourages exploration and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape impactful design narratives and work on exciting, large-scale projects.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in architecture or urban design with strong storytelling skills required.
- Other info: Ideal for creative thinkers eager to define big ideas before the brief.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We’re hiring a Strategic Design & Narrative Lead to join a globally recognised architecture and urbanism studio. This role is ideal for a designer who thrives at the intersection of concept, culture, and communication—someone who sees storytelling as foundational to shaping the built environment.
You’ll work on large-scale urban, masterplanning, and architectural projects, contributing to the earliest stages of design—from positioning and narrative development to competition entries and client visioning.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead early-stage design strategy and narrative development across global projects
- Shape conceptual direction for competitions and key project pitches
- Develop clear, compelling narratives that tie together place, context, and purpose
- Collaborate closely with visualisation, urban design, and architecture teams
- Translate research, client aspirations, and cultural insights into strong design briefs
- Contribute to thought leadership and strategic framing across the studio’s portfolio
- 8+ years' experience in architecture, urban design, placemaking, or strategic design
- Proven experience working on high-profile competitions or masterplans
- Excellent storytelling and communication skills—both visual and written
- Strong grasp of contextual research, positioning, and place identity
- Experience guiding teams through early concept and narrative phases
- Confident presenting ideas to clients, collaborators, and internal stakeholders
- A creative thinker who brings depth and clarity to complex briefs
- Experience in framing RIBA Stage 0–2 work
- A background in communications, design writing, or editorial alongside design
- Familiarity with urban-scale and mixed-use projects in international contexts
This team is designed to be the experimental space of the practice, a place to explore, provoke, and imagine what’s next. Here we connect strategy and creativity to shape design narratives that resonate across cities, sectors, and disciplines. If you’re drawn to work that sits before the brief, where you can help define the big idea - this opportunity and role could be your next step.
If you’re passionate about shaping ideas, telling powerful stories, and guiding design from the ground up—we’d love to hear from you.
Contact Detail:
MADE Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Design & Narrative Lead – Architecture & Urban Futures
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in architecture and urban design. Understanding current movements and innovations will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare a portfolio that showcases your storytelling abilities through design. Highlight projects where you've successfully developed narratives that connect with place and context, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the architecture and urbanism sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online communities to build connections that could lead to referrals or insights about the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Practice presenting your ideas clearly and confidently. Since the role involves pitching concepts to clients and stakeholders, being able to articulate your vision effectively will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Design & Narrative Lead – Architecture & Urban Futures
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Strategic Design & Narrative Lead position. Familiarise yourself with the studio's projects and ethos to tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Compelling Narrative: Since storytelling is crucial for this role, ensure your application reflects your ability to weave narratives. Use your cover letter to illustrate how your experiences align with the studio's vision and how you can contribute to their projects.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your 8+ years of experience in architecture, urban design, or strategic design. Provide specific examples of high-profile competitions or masterplans you've worked on, showcasing your storytelling and communication skills.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Focus on your ability to guide teams through early concept phases and your familiarity with urban-scale projects, ensuring it aligns with the job description.
How to prepare for a job interview at MADE Careers
✨Showcase Your Storytelling Skills
As a Strategic Design & Narrative Lead, storytelling is key. Prepare examples of how you've used narrative to shape design projects in the past. Be ready to discuss your thought process and how you connect context and purpose through your stories.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires close collaboration with various teams. Highlight your experience working with visualisation, urban design, and architecture teams. Share specific instances where teamwork led to successful project outcomes.
✨Prepare for Conceptual Discussions
Expect to engage in discussions about early-stage design strategy. Brush up on your understanding of RIBA Stage 0–2 work and be prepared to articulate how you approach conceptual direction and narrative development.
✨Research the Studio's Portfolio
Familiarise yourself with the studio's previous projects and their design philosophy. This will not only help you understand their work but also allow you to tailor your responses to align with their vision and values during the interview.
