At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-profile architectural projects and inspire teams to achieve design excellence.
- Company: Award-winning architectural studio with a collaborative and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, generous holiday, private medical insurance, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape impactful projects and strategies in a senior leadership role.
- Qualifications: 10+ years of experience in architecture and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to innovation and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
This is a rare opportunity for an established architectural leader to step into a genuinely influential role within a highly regarded, award-winning studio. For someone ready to shape projects, people and strategy at a senior level, this position offers both autonomy and real impact.
The studio is looking for an Associate Director who combines design credibility with commercial awareness, and someone who is comfortable leading complex, high-profile work while contributing to the wider direction of the practice. Working closely with the Directors, this role sits at the heart of the senior leadership team, helping to drive design excellence, strong client relationships and sustainable growth across a diverse portfolio.
The role will involve:
- Leading the design and delivery of complex, high-profile projects, balancing quality, programme and profitability
- Providing strategic direction and contributing to long-term business growth
- Inspiring, mentoring and guiding teams to consistently produce outstanding work
- Acting as a senior client contact, presenting proposals and building trusted, long-term relationships
- Supporting business development, fee proposals and wider strategic planning alongside the leadership team
What’s on offer:
- Hybrid working, with a minimum of three days per week in the London studio
- A comprehensive benefits package including generous holiday allowance, enhanced pension, private medical insurance, life assurance, cycle-to-work scheme and ongoing professional development
- A collaborative, inclusive studio culture with clear opportunities for progression and recognition
About you:
- 10+ years post-qualification experience
- A strong track record of leading teams and delivering complex architectural projects
- Confident in client-facing roles, with excellent communication and presentation skills
- Commercially aware, strategically minded and proactive in problem-solving
- Experienced in coordinating consultants and overseeing project delivery
- Proficient in relevant design and BIM software (Revit preferred)
- Full right to work in the UK (no sponsorship available)
The studio is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where different perspectives are valued and supported. If design quality, leadership and innovation matter to you, this could be a standout next step.
Associate Director - Architecture in City of London employer: Architecture Social
Contact Detail:
Architecture Social Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director - Architecture in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, join architectural forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best projects and leadership experiences. When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let your work do the talking.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the studio's recent projects and their design philosophy. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals and values.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - Architecture in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Associate Director role. Highlight your leadership in complex projects and any commercial successes to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about architecture and how your vision aligns with our studio's goals. Be genuine and let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Portfolio: Include a portfolio that not only displays your best work but also demonstrates your ability to lead and inspire teams. We want to see how you’ve tackled challenges and delivered outstanding results in past projects.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Architecture Social
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in your past projects. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced, how you led your team, and the impact of your decisions. This will showcase your design credibility and leadership skills.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
Prepare to discuss how you've contributed to long-term business growth in previous roles. Think about examples where you balanced quality with profitability and how you inspired your team to achieve outstanding results. This will demonstrate your commercial awareness.
✨Practice Client-Facing Scenarios
Since this role involves being a senior client contact, practice presenting proposals and building relationships. Role-play with a friend or mentor to refine your communication and presentation skills, ensuring you come across as confident and approachable.
✨Emphasise Your Collaborative Spirit
The studio values a collaborative culture, so be prepared to discuss how you’ve worked with diverse teams and coordinated with consultants. Highlight your experience in mentoring others and fostering an inclusive environment, which aligns with their commitment to different perspectives.