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- Tasks: Lead design direction across projects and teams in a globally recognised architecture studio.
- Company: Join a renowned architecture practice known for innovation and creativity with a strong international presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy significant visibility, autonomy, and the chance to influence city-shaping projects.
- Why this job: Shape the creative direction and work alongside respected designers in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified architect with 15+ years of experience and proven leadership skills.
- Other info: International project experience and a global mindset are highly valued.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
A globally recognised architecture studio with multiple international offices is seeking a visionary Studio-Wide Design Director to join their London office. This is a rare opportunity to step into a design leadership position known for delivering design excellence across a broad range of sectors.
With a strong international presence and a reputation for innovation, creativity, and thoughtful design, this practice works across a variety of typologies including cultural, commercial, mixed-use, hospitality, masterplanning, residential, and sports architecture. Their London studio is a key hub within the global network, driving major design initiatives and contributing to the practice's global identity.
As the Design Director, you will work studio-wide, leading the design direction across projects and teams. You will act as the creative lead of the London studio, supporting the heads of sector and guiding the development of design strategies from concept through delivery. You’ll champion design culture, nurture talent, and ensure consistency and quality across the studio’s output.
You must be a qualified architect, and this role is best suited to individuals with strong design opinions and leadership capabilities, who are able to raise the level of design thinking across all sectors. Your ability to challenge, guide, and elevate teams will be instrumental in maintaining and evolving the studio’s reputation for design excellence.
Experience:- A qualified architect (ARB/RIBA) with 15+ years of professional experience
- A strong portfolio spanning multiple sectors (e.g., cultural, civic, commercial, mixed-use, or transport)
- Proven leadership experience within a design-focused architecture practice
- Experienced in driving design excellence at a strategic level across a large team or studio
- Comfortable working with internal leadership and external stakeholders at the highest level
- Passionate about mentoring, collaboration, and cultivating a strong design culture
- International project experience and global mindset highly valued
This is an opportunity to shape the creative direction of a renowned global studio, influence city-shaping projects, and work alongside some of the most respected designers in the field. The role offers significant visibility, autonomy, and the chance to lead at the forefront of architectural innovation.
Design Director - Global Architecture Practice employer: Curio Careers
Contact Detail:
Curio Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Director - Global Architecture Practice
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the architecture field, especially those who have experience in design leadership roles. Attend industry events, seminars, and workshops to connect with potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights into the studio's culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the studio's recent projects and design philosophy thoroughly. Understanding their approach to various typologies will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews, showcasing how your vision aligns with their goals and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully guided teams in previous roles. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've fostered a strong design culture and mentored talent within your teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your global mindset by highlighting any international project experience you have. Discuss how this experience has shaped your design thinking and ability to collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Director - Global Architecture Practice
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your qualifications as an architect and showcases your 15+ years of experience. Emphasise your leadership roles and any projects that demonstrate your ability to drive design excellence across various sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for architecture and design leadership. Discuss your vision for the role and how your experience aligns with the studio's commitment to innovation and creativity.
Showcase Your Portfolio: Include a strong portfolio that spans multiple sectors, highlighting your best work. Ensure it demonstrates your design thinking and leadership capabilities, as well as your ability to elevate teams and maintain design quality.
Highlight International Experience: If you have international project experience, make sure to mention it. This is highly valued by the studio, so detail any global projects you've worked on and how they have shaped your design perspective.
How to prepare for a job interview at Curio Careers
✨Showcase Your Vision
As a Design Director, it's crucial to demonstrate your unique design vision. Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail, highlighting projects that showcase your innovative thinking and leadership in various sectors.
✨Emphasise Leadership Experience
Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams and influenced design culture in previous roles. Discuss your approach to mentoring and nurturing talent, as this is key for the position.
✨Understand the Company's Identity
Research the studio's past projects and their design philosophy. Be prepared to articulate how your vision aligns with their reputation for innovation and excellence, and how you can contribute to their global identity.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about your experience with strategic design initiatives. Think about how you've driven design excellence at a high level and be ready to discuss your approach to collaborating with both internal and external stakeholders.
