HR Studio Director

A top 100 UK Architectural Practice (AJ100) employing around 130 talented professionals are seeking to appoint a HR Studio Director to help lead and shape operational strategy.

Known for delivering innovative, award-winning design solutions across multiple sectors, as part of a new management structure and evolving business needs, the HR Studio Director will play a pivotal role in strategic management and operational efficiency in our clients growing Architectural Practice.

The Opportunity

As HR Studio Director, you will play a key role in driving the efficiency, culture, and people experience within the practice. You\’ll provide strategic leadership across HR, Administration, Facilities, and Resource Planning functions-ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and alignment with our wider business objectives.

This is a rare opportunity to join at established leadership team and make a meaningful impact in a well-established, design-led business.

Key Responsibilities for the HR Studio Director

Strategic Operations & Leadership

• Partner with Executive Directors to align operational areas with strategic priorities
• Lead and develop the HR, Admin and Office Management functions
• Promote continuous improvement across systems, processes, and team structures

People & Culture

• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, retention and staff development
• Shape and support a strong culture of inclusivity, collaboration, and well-being
• Lead employee engagement, performance management and Learning & Development initiatives
• Ensure HR policies and practices are legally compliant and reflect best practice

Administrative & Office Management

• Provide a leadership and coordination interface to our Admin and Support teams ensuring consistent and high-quality internal support
• Proactively lead and support the optimisation of workplace environments to maintain a positive, safe, and productive workspace
• Liaise with IT and Facilities to support operational requirements and service continuity

Resource Planning & Project Support

• Work closely with the Executive team and managers to oversee and coordinate resource management across all teams
• Help balance workloads and maintain effective capacity planning across the business
• Support cross-functional coordination on internal initiatives

Financial Oversight & Compliance

• Manage budgets for operational departments within the remit of the role and identify cost-efficiency opportunities
• Ensure the practice meets all relevant health, safety, and legal requirements
• Support the firm\’s ongoing duty of care and compliance obligations

About You

• Proven experience in a senior operational or practice management role (ideally within architecture, engineering, or professional services but not essential)
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing multidisciplinary teams
• Broad knowledge of HR, office management, and resource planning
• Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Commercially aware with budgeting and financial oversight experience
• Proactive, collaborative and adaptable in a dynamic, fast-paced environment

Why Join Us?

You\’ll be part of a creative and ambitious team with a clear vision. This HR Studio Director offers a unique opportunity to influence how the business operates and grows.

• A competitive salary of between 60,000 – 70,000 per annum based on 35 hours per week.
• Car allowance on 6000 per annum.
• 25 days holiday with optional salary swap to increase provision to 28 days, Health & Cash plan, 3% pension, profit/performance related bonuses.
• A supportive, inclusive working culture
• Opportunities for professional development and progression
• The chance to shape the future of a leading architectural practice

Interested? Please hit apply and follow the instructions! Or for further information, please contact James Jackson at Conrad Consulting.