Technical and construction-stage delivery, Senior architectural team leadership, Client relationships and business developmentJob SummaryAssociate Architect / Associate Director job Holborn offers a permanent senior leadership opportunity within an established architectural practice. The position welcomes experienced architectural professionals from across all sectors, particularly those with proven technical and construction-stage delivery experience.
You will take ownership of complex architectural schemes and lead projects through technical design, construction and completion. The role combines technical oversight with responsibility for architectural teams, client relationships and commercial performance. You will work closely with senior management to support successful project delivery and the continued development of the practice. Responsibilities include coordinating technical information, resolving construction challenges, overseeing resources and contributing to fee proposals.
Candidates should be confident working with consultants and contractors while maintaining strong relationships with clients. An existing client portfolio is not essential, as the practice values relationship-building skills and commercial awareness. A January 2027 start is preferred, with flexibility for the right candidate.
About the CompanyThe employer is an established architectural practice seeking to strengthen its senior leadership team. Its appointment priorities centre on technical excellence, successful construction-stage delivery and the ability to guide architectural teams. The practice will consider experience across architectural sectors rather than requiring a particular specialism or established client portfolio. It values professionals who can manage complex projects, build client relationships and contribute to commercial outcomes. Senior management is looking for someone who can support wider business development and operational decisions. The recruitment process is considered and selective, with an emphasis on finding a candidate who can make a meaningful, long-term contribution to the studio.
Role & ResponsibilitiesLead architectural projects through technical design, construction and completion, taking responsibility for successful project deliveryOversee technical drawing packages, specifications and construction information while maintaining design resolution and buildabilityCoordinate with clients, contractors and consultants to resolve technical challenges and oversee architectural involvement during constructionManage project programmes, team resources and deliverables, monitoring budgets, fee expenditure and commercial risksLead and mentor Architects, Technologists and colleagues, overseeing workloads, resourcing and the quality of technical outputWork with studio leadership to improve internal processes, project efficiency and overall team performanceMaintain senior client relationships, identify opportunities for additional work and support business development activitiesContribute to fee proposals, scopes of services, project bids and tender submissions alongside senior managementSkills & Experience RequiredBring significant architectural practice experience at Associate level or in a senior role with readiness to progressDemonstrate a strong architectural background, ideally including registration with the Architects Registration Board (ARB)Show direct involvement in technical delivery and construction stages of architectural projects successfully completed on siteApply strong knowledge of UK building regulations, technical detailing, construction methods and project coordinationProvide evidence of leading architectural teams and managing multidisciplinary delivery on complex architectural projectsCommunicate confidently with clients, consultants, contractors and other stakeholders throughout the project lifecycleUnderstand fee proposals, scopes of services and commercial project management, including project budgets and resourcesCombine strong organisational, problem-solving and leadership skills with commercial awareness and an interest in practice growthSalary & Benefits70,000 – 90,000 DOE, with the level offered dependent on experience and responsibilitiesSalary expected to start around 70,000 – 75,000, with flexibility for exceptional candidatesPermanent employment within an established architectural practiceIdeally starting January 2027, with flexibility for the right candidateApplicants with notice periods of two to three months are encouraged to applyFurther benefits are to be confirmedWho Is This Role Ideal For?
This Associate Architect / Associate Director job Holborn will suit a technically accomplished architectural professional moving into, or already operating within, senior leadership. You will have progressed from hands-on technical delivery to overseeing people, projects and client relationships. Experience taking schemes through construction and successful completion is particularly important. You should be comfortable managing complex delivery programmes, considering commercial outcomes and representing the practice in client discussions. Candidates across architectural sectors are welcome, provided they demonstrate relevant technical, leadership and commercial capabilities. An existing business development network is not required, although the ability to develop relationships and identify future opportunities will be valued.
About Hunter DunningHunter Dunning is a specialist property and built environment recruitment consultancy established in 2004, focused on quality and long-term partnerships in the UK and Ireland property and construction market.
We specialise in full lifecycle property recruitment, covering architecture, interior design, surveying, land and planning, fire safety and wider construction roles. We offer informed and confidential discussions for both clients and candidates and welcome conversations about this opportunity and your wider career plans within the built environment. ApplyIf you meet the criteria above, send us your CV and portfolio. We receive a large number of applications so if you do not hear back within 7 days consider your application unsuccessful this time.
We will keep a copy of your details on file for future vacancies. In accordance with GDPR, by applying for this position you give us your consent to process your data in-line with our Privacy and Data Protection Policies which can be read on the privacy policy page on our website.
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Terms: A candidate is deemed to have been successfully placed once they have started a new job as a result of an introduction made by Hunter Dunning and when they've successfully completed the probation period. See website for full terms & conditions.
Associate Architect / Associate Director job in Holborn – Your Property Recruitment Specialists ( Job Ref: 1374810)Search the Hunter Dunning website for more vacancies:
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Associate Director - Project Management - Commercial in London employer: Hunter Dunning
Hunter Dunning is an excellent employer for Senior Building Surveyors, offering a dynamic and collaborative work culture in North London. With a focus on professional development, employees benefit from clear progression opportunities, hybrid working arrangements, and a supportive environment that values strong client relationships across diverse sectors including residential, education, commercial, and healthcare. The company promotes a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that team members are equipped with the tools and training necessary to excel in their careers while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
