At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative landscape projects from concept to completion, shaping environments that matter.
- Company: Join Gillespies, a creative practice with over 60 years of impactful design experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, flexible hours, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a modern studio with great facilities and support for your professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in sustainable design while collaborating with talented professionals.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in landscape architecture, strong design portfolio, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About Gillespies
For over 60 years, Gillespies has been designing exceptional places around the world. We believe that by working intelligently with people and nature, we can create places that deliver lasting social and environmental value. Our work spans scales and sectors, from neighbourhoods and parks to major city districts, across the UK and internationally. We are a collaborative, creative practice with studios in London, Oxford, Manchester, Leeds, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Our culture is supportive, design-led and people-focused, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and long-term impact.
The Role
We are looking for a Principal Landscape Architect to join our Manchester studio. This is a senior role within the team, offering the opportunity to lead on the design and delivery of high-quality projects in the UK and internationally. You will play a key role in shaping projects from concept through to completion, contributing to design direction, managing project delivery, and supporting client relationships. You will also help strengthen our regional and international portfolio, working closely with colleagues across the practice. This is an opportunity for someone who combines strong design ability with technical expertise and a collaborative approach to leadership.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and delivery of landscape projects across all stages
- Provide creative and technical direction within project teams
- Manage client relationships and contribute to business development
- Coordinate with internal teams and external consultants
- Support and mentor junior team members
- Contribute to the growth and profile of the Manchester studio
About You
- 7+ years’ professional experience in landscape architecture
- Degree in Landscape Architecture (or related discipline)
- Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute (CMLI), or equivalent preferred
- Strong design portfolio demonstrating concept through to built work
- Proven experience delivering UK-based projects
- International experience, particularly in arid or Middle Eastern landscapes, is desirable
- Proficient in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite and SketchUp
- Working knowledge of Revit is advantageous
- Strong communication skills, both visual and written
- Confident working with clients and multidisciplinary teams
- A proactive, collaborative and design-led approach
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Hybrid working (typically 2 days from home, 3 days in the studio)
- Flexible working hours to support work-life balance
- Opportunities to work on high-profile UK and international projects
- Career development and progression opportunities
- Mentoring and support towards Chartership (if applicable)
- Paid professional membership
- Healthcare cashback scheme and Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to Perkbox wellbeing and benefits platform
- Modern studio in central Manchester with gym, roof garden and cycle facilities
- Visa support where required
How to Apply
Please submit your CV, portfolio, and a brief note outlining your salary expectations and any visa or relocation requirements.
Closing date: 22 July 2026
Due to the volume of applications, we are only able to respond to candidates selected for interview.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Gillespies is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and make employment decisions based on merit, skills and business needs.
Principal Landscape Architect in Manchester employer: Gillespies
Gillespies LLP is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to creating transformative and sustainable environments that enhance community well-being. With a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and professional growth, employees have the opportunity to engage in pioneering projects both in the UK and internationally. The freelance nature of this role allows for flexibility while contributing to meaningful design leadership and mentorship within a forward-thinking studio environment.
