At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a creative architectural studio, managing projects and developing innovative designs.
- Company: Join AtkinsRéalis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salaries, flexible working, and tailored benefits for your lifestyle.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local communities through exciting architectural projects.
- Qualifications: Qualified Architect with experience in commercial and educational sectors.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
AtkinsRéalis are looking to recruit an innovative new Architectural Studio Lead to join and grow our Southampton architecture team alongside the existing established consultancy team, as part of the wider Midlands, South-West and Wales Architectural Practice and develop and expand our Architectural offering on the South Coast.
About The Role
- We are searching for a Studio Lead in Southampton with great design abilities, having been the author of a substantial portfolio of work.
- The ability to strategically grow the portfolio, engage with clients, stakeholders and subsequently grow the team.
- The role requires individuals with direct experience of lead coordinator role, delivering projects at all stages.
- We are seeking creative designers as well as technically focused individuals.
- The successful candidate will be familiar with the full construction process from business development, to bidding and project delivery - including the successful commercial management of projects.
- You will sit at the nexus of all that is happening in the Southampton Office and be responsible for driving its success.
Your role
- Responsible for the day‑to‑day running of the studio, including staff development, resource management and finance.
- Work proactively within a multi‑disciplinary environment to deliver project management leadership on major opportunities.
- To lead and support business development and work winning/bidding within the local team and wider South‑West markets.
- Development of the design culture and capability of our multi‑disciplinary design team(s).
- To develop designs that are firmly rooted with a strong narrative that seek to enhance our reputation.
- To secure work through bidding and developing compelling design concepts working with the local team focusing on local opportunities.
- Contribute to and build the design leadership and culture across the Southampton office.
- Successful delivery of projects to a high level of quality and client satisfaction acting as Lead Consultant/Design Manager.
- Identifying opportunities and supporting the development of winning bids for projects in the local government, education, commercial and related sectors—both single discipline and multi‑disciplinary.
About you
- Qualified Architect with ARB registration.
- Demonstrable track record and familiarity with commercial, education, commercial and local government sector clients in Exeter and wider South‑West markets.
- A creative designer with an understanding of technical delivery.
- Experience in preparing successful bids and tenders.
- Ability to confidently engage with clients and stakeholders.
- Direct experience of lead coordinator role, delivering projects at all stages.
- A good awareness of Autodesk Revit and managing projects in a BIM environment.
- Full UK Driving licence.
The opportunity to work both locally and within our national business to win and deliver work will mean that there will be a requirement for flexibility in respect of travel and location as project demands require.
Rewards & benefits
- Explore the rewards and benefits that help you thrive – at every stage of your life and your career.
- Enjoy competitive salaries, employee rewards and a brilliant range of benefits you can tailor to suit your own health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle choices.
- Make the most of a myriad of opportunities for training and professional development to grow your skills and expertise.
- Combine our hybrid working culture and flexible holiday allowances to balance a great job and fulfilling personal life.
About AtkinsRéalis
We’re AtkinsRéalis, a world‑class engineering services and nuclear organization. We connect people, data and technology to transform the world’s infrastructure and energy systems. Together, with our industry partners and clients, and our global team of consultants, designers, engineers and project managers, we can change the world. We’re committed to leading our clients across our various end markets to engineer a better future for our planet and its people.
Additional information
- This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance.
- The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require candidates to provide proof of residency in the UK of 5 years or longer.
- We are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they belong — a place where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop to be the best we can be.
- As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and ability.
- As a Disability Confident Leader, we are committed to offering an interview to all applicants who have a disability and meet the essential criteria.
Architectural Studio Lead in Southampton employer: Dormont Manufacturing Co
AtkinsRéalis is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Southampton that fosters creativity and innovation within the architectural field. With a strong emphasis on employee development, competitive salaries, and a flexible working culture, we empower our team to thrive both professionally and personally. Join us to be part of a collaborative team dedicated to transforming infrastructure and energy systems while enjoying a range of tailored benefits and opportunities for growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Architectural Studio Lead in Southampton
✨Get Your Portfolio Game On Point
As an aspiring architect, your portfolio is your golden ticket. Make sure it's not just a collection of your best work, but tells a story about your design process and creative thought. Showcase a range of projects, from conceptual sketches to final renderings—think of it as a visual CV!
✨Slide into Networking Events
Architecture thrives on community connections, so keep an eye out for local architecture meetups, exhibitions, and lectures. These events are gold for meeting industry professionals, and who knows? You might just bump into someone from Dormont Manufacturing Co who can give you the insider scoop on their hiring process!
✨Learn the Software Inside Out
Make sure you're up to speed with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Being able to discuss your proficiency during interviews can really set you apart. Plus, if you can mention particular projects where you’ve used them, you’ll demonstrate both skill and practical experience.
✨Refine Your Interview Skills
Interviews for architecture roles can get quite technical, so practice answering questions about your design process and decision-making strategies. Prepare for potential design challenges they might put forward in interviews—show them you can think on your feet and come up with innovative solutions!
We think you need these skills to ace Architectural Studio Lead in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Architecture is all about creativity and technical skills, so make sure your portfolio is front and centre! Include a range of your best projects, showcasing different styles and techniques. Don't forget to explain your design process and the challenges you overcame for each project – it gives hiring managers a glimpse into your thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:When putting together your CV, highlight relevant experience in architectural design software, like AutoCAD or Revit. Plus, if you have any internships or coursework that involved real-world projects, be sure to mention them. We want to see not just what you've done, but how it relates directly to this role at Dormont Manufacturing Co!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to Dormont Manufacturing Co. Talk about specific projects or values of theirs you admire, and how you see yourself contributing to their team. We want to feel your enthusiasm – let it shine through your words!
Use Professional Terminology:Don't shy away from using industry-specific jargon that demonstrates your expertise! Terms like 'sustainability', 'scale', and 'aesthetics' can not only show your knowledge but also help you connect with the hiring team. Just ensure it's done in a way that's relatable and not overly technical, so we can see your passion clearly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dormont Manufacturing Co
✨Master the Technical Questions
In an architecture interview, be ready to tackle some technical questions about building codes, design principles, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of materials and components, as you might even face scenarios to solve during the interview that showcase your problem-solving skills in real-time.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure it not only showcases your best work but also highlights your design thinking process, from sketches to final outputs. During the interview, be prepared to discuss the projects in detail—what challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and what you learnt.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
In today's architecture landscape, sustainability is key. Be sure to highlight any projects that involved eco-friendly designs or your understanding of sustainable practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the trends but are genuinely passionate about creating a better future through your designs.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Architecture is a collaborative field, so showing that you're a team player is essential. When conversing with the interviewers, actively listen and respond to their ideas. This isn’t just about you showing off your skills, but also about connecting and demonstrating how well you’d fit into their team at Dormont Manufacturing Co.
