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- Tasks: Lead strategic growth and business development in a dynamic architectural practice.
- Company: Established architectural firm with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, shareholding opportunities, private healthcare, and professional development support.
- Other info: Opportunity for future MD role and a vibrant company culture.
- Why this job: Drive impactful projects and shape the future of architecture while leading talented teams.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in architecture, strong business acumen, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 140000 £ per year.
An established and growing architectural practice is seeking an experienced Director with strong business development expertise to support the next phase of strategic growth. This is a senior leadership position combining business development, operational oversight, strategic planning, and project leadership. Reporting to the Board, the successful candidate will play a key role in driving revenue growth, strengthening client relationships, identifying new market opportunities, and supporting high-quality project delivery across the practice.
The role would suit a commercially focused architectural leader with proven experience winning work, leading teams, and delivering complex projects within the built environment sector specifically; Further Education, Healthcare, Life Science OR Defence.
Key Responsibilities- Identify and secure new business opportunities
- Develop and maintain relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and stakeholders
- Support the delivery of company growth strategies and market expansion initiatives
- Lead and oversee tender submissions, bids, and fee proposals
- Contribute to year-on-year revenue growth targets
- Provide strategic leadership across project and technical teams
- Support studio structure, resourcing, and operational performance
- Oversee project delivery, programme management, and profitability
- Monitor financial performance including fees, invoicing, and debt recovery
- Promote collaboration, continual improvement, and staff wellbeing
- Ensure compliance with UK Building Regulations, CDM Regulations, and the Building Safety Act
- Oversee quality assurance and technical delivery across all RIBA stages
- Support best practice in health & safety, governance, and professional standards
- Mentor and develop staff across the business
- Help build a strong talent pipeline and positive company culture
- Encourage professional development and knowledge sharing
- Proven track record of generating and securing new business
- Significant leadership experience within an architectural or built environment practice
- Strong commercial awareness and financial understanding
- Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills
- Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and complex projects
- Strong understanding of UK construction regulations, procurement routes, and contracts
- Ability to influence strategic decision-making and drive performance
- Professional, collaborative, and commercially minded approach [ARB / RIBA membership]
- Experience in one or more: Defence, Further Education, Life Science or Healthcare
- Existing client network within London and the surrounding areas
- Experience leading bids for major projects/frameworks
- Competitive salary: £100,000 - £140,000
- Future MD role for the company
- Shareholding opportunity
- Private healthcare
- Professional membership subscriptions paid
For a confidential discussion or to apply, please contact: Mario Fionda at James Gray Recruitment
Director of Architecture in London employer: James Gray Recruitment
Contact Detail:
James Gray Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Architecture in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and engage on LinkedIn. The more you network, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Create a portfolio that highlights your best projects and achievements. Make sure it’s easy to access and visually appealing. When you meet potential employers, having something tangible to show can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Ace the Informational Interview
Don’t be shy about reaching out for informational interviews. This is your chance to learn more about companies and roles while also making a great impression. Prepare thoughtful questions and be ready to share your own insights!
✨Apply Directly Through Us
When you find a role that excites you, apply directly through our website. It shows initiative and gives you a better chance of standing out. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Architecture in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your leadership experience and business development successes to show us you're the right fit for this Director role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about architecture and how your background aligns with our goals. Be sure to mention any relevant projects or achievements that demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Your Network: Since we value strong client relationships, don’t forget to mention your existing network within London and the surrounding areas. This can really set you apart from other candidates and show us your potential for driving growth.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Gray Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and regulations in architecture, especially those relevant to the sectors mentioned like Defence or Healthcare. Brush up on your knowledge of UK Building Regulations and be ready to discuss how you've applied this in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience. Think about times when you’ve successfully led multidisciplinary teams or delivered complex projects. Be ready to discuss how you foster collaboration and support staff development.
✨Business Development Focus
Since this role is heavily focused on business development, come prepared with specific examples of how you’ve generated new business opportunities in the past. Discuss your strategies for building client relationships and securing tenders.
✨Engage with Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the company’s growth strategies and culture. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.