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- Tasks: Lead design excellence and mentor a talented team in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join HLM Architects, a top UK practice known for innovation and award-winning culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible work options, an award-winning lifestyle package, and personal development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team that values your input and fosters creativity and growth.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified architect with 10+ years of experience in design delivery.
- Other info: We are an Employee Owned Trust, promoting ownership and inclusivity in the workplace.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are seeking a Design Director to join our team in London.
We are a UK & Ireland practice with strong connections across all of our studios in London, Sheffield, Cardiff, Glasgow, Belfast, and Dublin. We work collaboratively as one team structured by sector, sharing resources, knowledge, and skills. Ranked as one of the top 25 largest practices in the UK this year, other recent accolades include:
- Best Companies Top 50 Best Mid-sized Companies to work for 2023.
- Winner Building Awards: Architectural Practice of the Year 2022 & 2023.
- Winner Building Awards: Every Person Counts, the people strategy award.
- Winner AJ100 Sustainability Innovation of the Year 2022.
- Winner AJ100 Awards Employer of the Year Award 2021.
For this role, we are looking for a fully qualified architect with a minimum of 10 years of professional experience and proven delivery of design excellence, who will:
- Strive for continuous improvement by promoting and developing high-quality innovative design and technical excellence for the region.
- Coach and mentor staff and identify areas of development to drive efficiency, productivity, and performance.
- Provide advice and offer expertise on projects on a company-wide basis, and encourage staff to develop their talents for design.
- Work closely with the Senior Leadership Team, with particular responsibilities for the suitability of design proposals, compliance with statutory and Client requirements, and establishing the Company’s design ethos and environmental objectives.
- Manage existing client relationships and act as a principal contact with Client and Consultant teams.
- Work with the Directors to develop new initiatives, innovation, and business opportunities in line with Company strategy and procedures.
We offer a blended work model with a flexible approach to studio and remote working, along with a friendly studio environment, an award-winning lifestyle package, and a commitment to your personal development through the HLM Academy. We are also an Employee Owned Trust, which means our employees have a sense of ownership, a say in our direction, and are rewarded for the part they play in our future success.
Diversity, inclusion, and belonging (DIB) is at the core of our business. We advocate equal opportunities, creating an inclusive working environment for all. If you have a disability and would prefer to apply in a different mode, please contact our HR team for assistance.
If you think this role could be for you, please submit your cover letter, CV, and examples of your work.
Those shortlisted will be contacted.
HLM Architects is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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Design Director employer: HLM Architects
Contact Detail:
HLM Architects Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Director
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to showcase your leadership skills during the interview. As a Design Director, you'll be expected to coach and mentor staff, so be prepared to discuss your experience in developing teams and driving design excellence.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with the company's recent awards and accolades. Being knowledgeable about their achievements, such as the Building Awards and AJ100 recognitions, will demonstrate your genuine interest in the firm and its values.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss how you can contribute to the company's design ethos and environmental objectives. Highlight any past projects where you've successfully integrated sustainability into your designs, as this aligns with their focus on innovation.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees if possible. Understanding the company culture and the collaborative environment they promote can give you an edge in your application and help you articulate how you fit into their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Design Director position. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications, such as the emphasis on design excellence and mentoring staff.
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses how your experience aligns with the role. Highlight your 10+ years of professional experience, your approach to innovative design, and your ability to coach and mentor others.
Showcase Your Work: Include examples of your previous design projects in your application. Make sure these examples demonstrate your design excellence and ability to manage client relationships effectively.
Highlight Your Values: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging, as these are core values of the company. Show how you can contribute to creating an inclusive working environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at HLM Architects
✨Showcase Your Design Excellence
As a Design Director, it's crucial to demonstrate your track record of design excellence. Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best projects, focusing on innovative solutions and technical achievements that align with the company's ethos.
✨Emphasize Collaborative Leadership
This role requires strong leadership skills. Be ready to discuss your experience in coaching and mentoring teams, and how you've fostered collaboration across different sectors. Share specific examples of how you've driven efficiency and performance in past roles.
✨Understand the Company’s Values
Familiarize yourself with the company’s recent accolades and their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. During the interview, express how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their ongoing success.
✨Prepare for Client Relationship Management
Since managing client relationships is key, be prepared to discuss your approach to client engagement. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated client expectations and built lasting partnerships in previous projects.
