At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations and manage a talented team in a creative architecture practice.
- Company: Renowned mid-sized architecture firm known for design excellence and creativity.
- Benefits: Work-from-abroad options, generous leave, and opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Join a collaborative environment and drive the practice forward during an exciting growth phase.
- Qualifications: Experience in operations or practice management within architecture and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on international exposure and operational excellence.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A highly sought after, mid-sized architecture practice is seeking a Practice Manager (Associate) to join its London team. Renowned for the quality and ambition of its work, the practice has built a strong reputation for design excellence and creativity over many years.
This Associate-level role focuses on operational leadership, people management and strategic support, with responsibility for overseeing practice systems, finance and compliance, alongside the line management of a small, experienced team and direct reporting to the Founder. The ideal candidate will bring experience from a design practice with international exposure, combining strong attention to detail and sound judgement with positive energy, initiative and a bit of fire, someone confident taking responsibility, building trust across the studio and helping drive the practice forward as it enters a new phase of growth.
This opportunity would suit someone eager to progress their career in practice management within a collaborative and social environment. In addition to long-term development and progression, the practice offers benefits including working-from-abroad options, generous annual leave and more.
Key Responsibilities:- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the studio, ensuring the smooth running of facilities, suppliers, health & safety and compliance
- Act as a senior operational lead, working closely with Directors to support the long-term objectives of the practice
- Manage HR processes end-to-end, including recruitment, onboarding, training, wellbeing initiatives and compliance with employment legislation
- Line manage key operational figures (4 in total) across studio management, compliance and finance
- Lead on financial operations alongside the Finance Manager, including payroll sign-off, billing and budgeting
- Coordinate management meetings, resourcing discussions and reporting across the practice
- Oversee IT systems, infrastructure and external consultants, supporting both day-to-day operations and larger IT projects
- Maintain strong relationships across the wider practice, as well as external consultants, insurers and advisors
- Significant experience in a senior operations or practice management role within architecture, design, built environment
- Strong working knowledge of HR, finance and operational management in a studio environment
- Experience working within a design studio that has international exposure is highly desirable
- Line management experience and confident presenting to board members
- Commercially aware with proven experience overseeing budgets, payroll and financial reporting
- Confident managing IT systems and external consultants
- Highly organised, proactive and able to operate calmly under pressure
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively across a studio team
To apply for this position please click on the apply button to attach your CV (and portfolio for design positions).
The Crowd is an equal opportunities employer and agency.
Practice Manager (Associate) employer: CROWD CREATIVE
Contact Detail:
CROWD CREATIVE Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Practice Manager (Associate)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the architecture and design scene. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the practice thoroughly. Know their projects, values, and what makes them tick. This will not only help you stand out but also show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to talk about your experience and how it aligns with the role of Practice Manager. Highlight your operational leadership skills and how you can contribute to their growth. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Practice Manager (Associate)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your operational leadership and people management experience, as these are key for the Practice Manager role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to showcase your passion for architecture and design. Share specific examples of how you've driven practice growth or improved operational efficiency in previous roles.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since this role involves managing a small team, emphasise your collaborative approach. Mention any experiences where you’ve successfully built trust and fostered a positive work environment.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at CROWD CREATIVE
✨Know Your Practice Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the practice's projects and ethos. Familiarise yourself with their design philosophy and recent works. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your experience with their values.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Practice Manager (Associate), you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your approach to HR processes, training, and fostering a collaborative environment. Be ready to discuss how you can bring positive energy and initiative to their studio.
✨Be Financially Savvy
Since the role involves overseeing budgets and financial operations, brush up on your financial management skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with payroll, billing, and budgeting. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your commercial awareness and ability to manage finances effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Excellent communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex topics like compliance and IT systems. Use examples from your past experiences to illustrate your points and show how you can build trust across the studio.