Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in coordinating iconic architectural projects and support project delivery from concept to completion.
- Company: Join a prominent architecture studio's specialist internal design management team.
- Benefits: Enjoy better work-life balance, competitive salary, and opportunities for international travel.
- Why this job: Transition into strategic design management with tailored mentorship and exposure to significant projects.
- Qualifications: 1+ year experience post-RIBA Part II or equivalent; strong communication and organisational skills required.
- Other info: Rare opportunity to evolve your career into influential realms of architecture.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an Architectural Assistant (RIBA Part II), Architectural Designer, or a Recently Qualified Architect ready for something different? Do you find yourself intrigued by the strategic, operational side of architecture and eager to develop skills beyond traditional design work? We’re offering an exclusive in-house opportunity within a prominent architecture studio’s specialist internal design management team - an ideal role if you want to pivot your career, expand your influence on major design projects, and unlock new pathways in design management.
This role not only provides improved work-life balance compared to traditional practice roles but also opens doors to alternative career routes in design and project management with employers in real estate, development, and beyond.
About the Role
This Assistant Design Manager role is your gateway from hands-on design into strategic project and design management. You’ll become an integral part of the internal Design Management team, separate from the design and production teams, assisting in coordinating iconic architectural schemes and supporting project delivery from early concept to completion.
Your day-to-day tasks will include (but not be limited to):
- Assisting senior Design Managers with project setup, programming, project tracking, and reporting to ensure design quality, efficiency, and consistency.
- Collaborating with consultants, supporting contract reviews, and helping to maintain clear communication channels across all project stakeholders.
- Contributing to strategic documentation, including project schedules, deliverable trackers, and change control management.
- Coordinating design team meetings and workshops, managing agendas and documenting key actions.
- Developing your understanding of financial and contractual aspects of design projects.
Who We’re Looking For
Architectural professionals with 1+ year experience post-RIBA Part II qualification, recently qualified Architects, or equivalent, gained within a UK-based, design-focused practice.
A keen interest in transitioning from traditional design into design management, with a willingness to learn new skills and processes.
Proven organisational ability, attention to detail, and strong communication skills.
Familiarity with design programmes/schedules/route maps, consultant coordination, and documentation standards.
Proficiency in MS Office and the Adobe Creative Suite, and a willingness to learn additional management software (MS Project etc.).
Why Make the Move?
- Career Acceleration: This role offers a clear pathway from architectural design into strategic design management, positioning you for future senior roles and leadership.
- Better Work-Life Balance: Being part of a dedicated Design Management team, separate from the traditional production environment, offers improved work-life balance and a sustainable working rhythm.
- Tailored Mentorship: Receive structured training and support directly from experienced Design Managers, within a supportive environment whilst leading headline projects.
- Strategic Exposure: Work on significant UK and international projects across a range of sectors (cultural, hospitality, aviation, education, and more), gaining insights into client engagement, financial oversight, and high-level project coordination.
- Professional Growth: Build a robust portfolio showcasing strategic skills highly valued by both architectural and design management employers worldwide.
What’s On Offer:
- Opportunities for international travel on global projects (optional).
- Competitive salary and above-market benefits package, commensurate with experience.
- Structured professional development, training, and progression.
- Direct involvement with flagship architectural projects.
- A collaborative, dynamic environment within an industry-leading studio.
- Opportunities to transition into design management in-house are extremely rare.
If you’re considering moving into design and project management, Grõ Careers is uniquely placed to support you. We’re the only specialist recruiter exclusively dedicated to guiding architectural professionals through this pivotal career shift. Our unmatched expertise will help you understand exactly how to leverage your existing skills to stand out and secure the right role.
Ready to take the next step? Send your CV to Reece at Grõ Careers today. Due to high volumes of interest, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.
Assistant Design Manager employer: Grõ Careers
Contact Detail:
Grõ Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in design management roles. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet people already working in this field. Building these connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific software and tools mentioned in the job description, such as MS Project. Taking online courses or tutorials can help you gain confidence and demonstrate your commitment to learning new skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company’s recent projects and their approach to design management. Being knowledgeable about their work will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how your previous experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Assistant Design Manager role. Think of specific examples where you've demonstrated organisational skills, attention to detail, or effective communication in past projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Design Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in architectural design and any project management skills. Emphasise your post-RIBA Part II qualifications and any specific projects that showcase your organisational abilities and attention to detail.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly expresses your interest in transitioning from traditional design to design management. Mention your eagerness to learn new skills and how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Assistant Design Manager role.
Showcase Relevant Skills: In your application, highlight your proficiency in MS Office and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as any experience with design programmes or project management software. This will demonstrate your readiness for the technical aspects of the role.
Express Your Career Goals: Clearly articulate your career aspirations in your application. Explain how this role fits into your long-term goals and why you are excited about the opportunity to work on significant UK and international projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Grõ Careers
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an Assistant Design Manager. Familiarise yourself with design management concepts and be ready to discuss how your previous experience aligns with these tasks.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Highlight your organisational abilities during the interview. Be prepared to provide examples of how you've successfully managed projects or coordinated teams in the past, as this role requires strong attention to detail and effective communication.
✨Demonstrate Your Interest in Transitioning
Express your enthusiasm for moving from traditional design into design management. Discuss why you're interested in this shift and how you plan to develop the necessary skills to excel in this new area.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Have thoughtful questions ready for your interviewers about the team dynamics, project types, and mentorship opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
