At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage studio operations and resource planning for creative projects.
- Company: Dynamic international branding agency with a vibrant London studio.
- Benefits: Opportunities for career advancement in a growing agency.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values creativity and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be at the heart of creativity, connecting teams and projects globally.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in studio management with knowledge of Paprika and UK IR35.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
This is a Studio Manager seat at an international branding agency with a team of 40 people, more than 30 clients globally, and a London studio that sits inside a live editorial newsroom - which means the creative work here is fed by journalists and a genuinely global point of view. That structural connection to a sister media brand is rare, and it shapes the sensibility of everything the studio produces.
The Role
You'll run the operational heartbeat of the studio. Weekly resource planning through Paprika, balancing immediate team needs against long-term project capacity, and allocating internal and freelance talent against project budgets, with real commercial awareness of freelance rates and profitability. You'll own studio culture and operations end-to-end - facilities, onboarding and offboarding, internal comms, and the printed collateral and prep behind high-profile client presentations. You'll also act as the operational bridge to sister companies and protect the Creative Director's time and focus.
The Package
Growing agency with real scope for advancement.
The Person
You've spent at least three years as a Studio, Traffic or Resource Manager inside a branding, design or advertising agency. You know Paprika or its equivalent, you run weekly resource meetings, and you carry a practical working knowledge of UK IR35, freelancer onboarding and invoicing. A branding background is essential; editorial or production experience is a bonus. Above all, you're the kind of operator who meets 'I don't know how that works yet' with 'I'll figure it out.'
- A more diverse team is a more creative team. It’s our job to build teams of people, and we’re proud to bring together a global network of diverse talent. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, nationality, religious persuasion, sexual orientation, sex, marital or parental status, physical ability, gender, or age.
Studio Manager in London employer: Craft
Craft is an exceptional employer located in the creatively vibrant area of London, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises inclusivity and work/life balance. As a Group Account Director, you will have the opportunity to lead a talented team while engaging with senior stakeholders to shape impactful PR strategies. The agency is committed to employee growth, providing ample opportunities for professional development in a supportive environment that values diversity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Studio Manager in London
✨Maximise your Online Presence
As a freelance management consultant, your personal brand is key! Revamp your LinkedIn profile by sharing insights on industry trends and case studies. Regularly post about your latest projects or findings to showcase your expertise; trust us, potential clients love seeing your knowledge in action!
✨Leverage Professional Networks
Get involved with consulting communities, both online and offline. Join platforms like Consulting.com or go to local meetups and conferences in your area. These are gold mines for networking and can lead to referrals, which are super important in our freelance world!
✨Showcase Your Work with a Portfolio
Create an online portfolio highlighting your previous projects, methodologies, and the impact of your consultancy work. This live demonstration of your skills can make all the difference when clients are deciding between you and someone else—make it easy for them to see why you’re the right fit!
✨Reach Out to Prospective Clients Directly
Don’t wait for clients to come to you! Proactively reach out to companies that interest you, suggesting how your consultancy could solve their specific challenges. Tailor your pitch to show you understand their business and pain points—it's all about showing value before even landing the gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Studio Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In a freelance management consulting role, you’ll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills upfront. Make sure your CV includes examples of how you've tackled complex issues in past projects or roles. Highlight any specific methodologies you’ve used, like SWOT analysis or root cause analysis, to impress Craft.
Craft a Compelling Project Portfolio:As a freelancer, your portfolio is your best asset. Include case studies of previous consulting projects that clearly outline the challenges faced, your approach, and the outcomes achieved. This will help potential clients, like Craft, see your impact and how you can add value to their team.
Personalise Your Proposal:When applying to Craft, tailor your proposal specifically to their needs. Reference their company goals or current challenges, and outline how your skills and experiences align with what they're looking for. This shows that you're not just sending out generic applications but are genuinely interested in working with them.
Highlight Your Availability and Rates:Being freelance means flexibility is key! Be upfront about your availability for projects and what your rates are based on your expertise. Craft will appreciate a clear understanding of your working style and how we can collaborate effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Craft
✨Show Off Your Analytical Superpowers
As a freelance management consultant, you'll be expected to tackle complex problems on the fly. Make sure you’re ready to flex those analytical muscles by preparing for case study questions. Tackle real-world scenarios similar to those you might face at Craft, illustrating your thought process and giving structured responses.
✨Pitch Your Unique Value Proposition
In the freelance scene, it's all about making yourself stand out. Be ready to articulate what sets you apart from the competition. Consider how your previous projects align with what Craft values and how your specific skills can contribute directly to their needs.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Key Tools
Consultants often rely on certain tools to analyse data and generate insights. Get comfortable with software like Excel for data analysis, and if possible, brush up on any specific tools mentioned in the job description that Craft uses. This can give you an edge during technical discussions.
✨Demonstrate Client Management Experience
Freelancing is not just about numbers; it’s also about relationships. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences with clients, particularly how you manage their expectations and deliver results. These examples will highlight your capability to navigate client consultations effectively and reinforce your suitability for the role with Craft.
