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- Tasks: Lead and shape a new team in masterplanning within an established studio.
- Company: Join a respected AJ100 architectural practice known for its collaborative design approach.
- Benefits: Enjoy a flexible work schedule with 4 days in the office and 1 day remote.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact while blending creativity with strategy in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in masterplanning; ideally at Director level or strong Associate Director ready to step up.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor a team and contribute to marketing and branding efforts.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
An AJ100 architectural practice is seeking to appoint a senior-level hire to lead and shape a new sector within the studio. This is a unique opportunity to create and grow a team in a space that doesn’t yet formally exist in the practice — an ambitious move backed by leadership, resources, and a design-first culture. The studio EOT with over 80 architects and designers, known for its collaborative and highly respected design approach. They’re now looking to expand their presence in the commercial, hospitality, and residential sectors, with a growing focus on sustainability, retrofit, and working with well-known UK developers.
This role sits at Director level and is suited to someone who wants to build their own team, define their narrative, and make a lasting impact. It would fit a UK- or Europe-based architect with deep experience in urban design/regeneration or masterplanning, particularly someone who has hit a ceiling in their current practice and is ready to lead. You’ll be client-facing, working with senior stakeholders and directors across the business, and expected to bring a clear design voice alongside strong commercial, networking, and leadership capabilities.
This is a rare chance to blend creativity with strategy and to grow a new offer within an already established and successful studio. Those who are actively engaged in the industry — speaking at events, involved in panels or design reviews, or helping shape wider design discourse — will be especially well aligned, as this demonstrates the initiative, drive, and presence needed to succeed in the role. It’s a great opportunity for someone ready to step away from a rigid or corporate environment and take on a leadership role with genuine autonomy and vision.
Key Responsibilities- Shape and lead a new team within an established, employee-owned studio
- Build a clear sector offering and narrative, and confidently take it to market
- Inspire design thinking that is both creative and strategic
- Own your own P&L, driving business development and profitability
- Collaborate with the wider leadership and marketing teams to ensure alignment across communications and strategy
- Contribute to marketing content, social media, newsletters, and branding material
- Mentor and lead a team of architects and designers, with a focus on professional growth, delegation, and collaboration
- A minimum of 15+ years’ experience in masterplanning and urban design/regeneration within the UK
- Ideally already at Director level, or a strong Associate Director ready to step up
- Proven track record of winning work and maintaining a strong client network
- Demonstrable fee-earning responsibilities and commercial awareness, including figures around fees billed, project value, and revenue generated
- Experience managing a P&L and contributing to broader business planning
- Confident in pitching and presenting to clients and stakeholders at all levels
- Excellent communication and reporting skills
- Strategic and innovative mindset with the ability to contribute to overall design direction and delivery
Director of Masterplanning - London employer: Curio Careers
Contact Detail:
Curio Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Masterplanning - London
✨Tip Number 1
Network actively within the architectural community, especially with professionals involved in urban design and masterplanning. Attend industry events, seminars, and workshops to connect with potential collaborators and clients, showcasing your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the studio's existing projects and initiatives by following their social media channels and website updates. This will help you understand their design philosophy and current focus areas, allowing you to tailor your discussions and ideas to align with their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous leadership experiences and how you've successfully built teams or led projects. Highlight specific examples where your strategic thinking and innovative approaches have made a significant impact on project outcomes.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and retrofit practices in your conversations. Share insights on how these elements can be integrated into masterplanning, as this aligns with the studio's growing focus and will showcase your forward-thinking approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Masterplanning - London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience in masterplanning and urban design. Focus on your leadership roles, successful projects, and any relevant achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for shaping a new sector within the studio. Discuss your vision for the role and how your background in commercial, hospitality, and residential sectors can contribute to the company's growth.
Showcase Your Network: Mention your existing client network and any industry engagements, such as speaking at events or participating in panels. This demonstrates your active involvement in the architectural community and your ability to bring in business.
Highlight Leadership Experience: Emphasise your experience in mentoring and leading teams. Provide examples of how you've inspired design thinking and contributed to professional growth within your previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Curio Careers
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for the Director of Masterplanning role, it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed projects, and driven business development in your previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Design Vision
This position requires a strong design voice. Be ready to discuss your design philosophy and how it aligns with the studio's culture. Bring along a portfolio that showcases your best work in urban design and masterplanning, emphasising creativity and strategic thinking.
✨Prepare for Client-Facing Scenarios
Since the role involves working closely with clients and stakeholders, practice articulating your approach to client relationships. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to win work and maintain a strong network, as well as your experience in pitching and presenting.
✨Engage with Industry Trends
Stay updated on current trends in sustainability, retrofit, and urban regeneration. Be prepared to discuss how these trends influence your work and how you can integrate them into the new sector offering. This shows your initiative and engagement in the industry.
