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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 excellence in various sectors.
- Benefits: Enjoy significant visibility, autonomy, and the chance to influence city-shaping projects.
- Why this job: Shape creative direction and work with respected designers in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified architect with 15+ years of experience and strong 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 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 past projects. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've fostered a strong design culture and mentored junior architects, as this will demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on global architectural trends and innovations. Being knowledgeable about current design movements and technologies will not only enhance your conversations but also position you as a forward-thinking candidate who can contribute to the studio's reputation for innovation.
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: In your cover letter, express 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. Be sure to mention specific projects or achievements that reflect your design philosophy.
Showcase Your Portfolio: Include a strong portfolio that spans multiple sectors, highlighting your best work. Ensure it reflects your design opinions and leadership capabilities. Consider including case studies that illustrate your strategic approach to design and collaboration with teams.
Highlight Mentorship Experience: Since the role involves nurturing talent and fostering a strong design culture, be sure to mention any mentorship or leadership experiences in your application. Discuss how you have supported and guided teams in previous roles to elevate design thinking.
How to prepare for a job interview at Curio Careers
✨Showcase Your Vision
As a Design Director, it's crucial to demonstrate your visionary approach to design. Prepare to discuss your design philosophy and how it aligns with the studio's values. Bring examples from your portfolio that highlight innovative solutions and your ability to elevate design thinking.
✨Emphasise Leadership Experience
Highlight your leadership capabilities by sharing specific instances where you've guided teams to success. Discuss how you've nurtured talent and fostered a strong design culture in previous roles, as this will resonate well with the interviewers looking for a creative lead.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect to engage in conversations about strategic design initiatives. Be ready to articulate how you would drive design excellence across various sectors and how your international experience can contribute to the studio's global identity.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Collaboration is key in this role. Prepare to discuss how you've worked with internal leadership and external stakeholders in the past. Share examples of successful partnerships and how they led to impactful design outcomes, showcasing your ability to navigate complex relationships.
