At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams on high-profile architectural projects while driving strategic growth.
- Company: Award-winning architectural studio with a collaborative and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, generous holiday allowance, private medical insurance, and professional development.
- Why this job: Shape impactful projects and mentor future leaders in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 10+ years of experience in architecture with strong leadership and client-facing skills.
- Other info: Join a team that values diverse perspectives and fosters innovation.
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 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 London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, join online forums, and connect with people in the architecture field. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly to hiring managers.
✨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, having a visual representation of your work can really set you apart.
✨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 values and goals. This will demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment.
✨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 take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - Architecture in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Associate Director role. Highlight your leadership in complex projects and any commercial successes you've had. We want to see how you can bring value to our studio!
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 sure to mention specific projects or experiences that showcase your design credibility and strategic mindset.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, give us a glimpse of your leadership style. How do you inspire and mentor teams? Share examples of how you've guided teams to deliver outstanding work while maintaining strong client relationships. We love to see how you can lead by example!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining 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 Commercial Awareness
Prepare to discuss how you balance quality with profitability. Think of examples where you’ve made strategic decisions that positively affected project outcomes. This will demonstrate your understanding of the business side of architecture, which is crucial for this role.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you’ll be acting as a senior client contact, practice presenting your ideas clearly and confidently. Use mock interviews to refine your communication style and ensure you can engage effectively with clients and stakeholders.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership and Mentoring
Be ready to talk about your experience in inspiring and guiding teams. Share specific instances where you’ve mentored others or fostered collaboration, as this aligns with the studio’s focus on leadership and team dynamics.