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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 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 speak confidently about how your vision aligns with theirs during interviews or networking opportunities.
✨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 is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your international project experience and global mindset by discussing any cross-cultural collaborations you've been involved in. This will demonstrate your ability to work effectively within a diverse team and contribute to the studio's global identity.
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 specific 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 focus on innovation and creativity. Mention specific projects or achievements that illustrate your capability to elevate design thinking.
Showcase Your Portfolio: Include a strong portfolio that spans multiple sectors, highlighting your best work. Ensure it reflects your design philosophy and leadership in previous projects. This is crucial for demonstrating your ability to guide teams and maintain design quality.
Prepare for Interviews: If invited for an interview, be ready to discuss your design opinions and how you would champion design culture within the studio. Prepare examples of how you've mentored talent and collaborated with stakeholders at high levels, as these are key aspects of the role.
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 ability to lead and innovate across various sectors.
✨Emphasise Leadership Experience
Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams and driven design excellence in previous roles. Discuss your approach to mentoring and nurturing talent within a creative environment.
✨Understand the Studio's Identity
Research the studio's past projects and their design philosophy. Be prepared to articulate how your vision aligns with their values and how you can contribute to their global identity.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the role involves working with internal leadership and external stakeholders, practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Show that you can effectively communicate and collaborate at all levels.
