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- Tasks: Lead strategic growth and oversee project delivery 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 to mentor the next generation of architects.
- Why this job: Join a leadership role that shapes the future of architecture and drives impactful projects.
- Qualifications: Proven business development experience and strong leadership skills in the built environment sector.
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- Business Development & Growth
- 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
- Leadership & Operations
- 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
- Technical & Compliance
- 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
- Team Development
- Mentor and develop staff across the business
- Help build a strong talent pipeline and positive company culture
- Encourage professional development and knowledge sharing
Essential Experience & Skills
- 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
Senior Director, Project Planning in London employer: James Gray Recruitment
Contact Detail:
James Gray Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Director, Project Planning in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Create a portfolio that highlights your best work and achievements. Make sure it’s tailored to the role you’re after, showcasing your experience in business development and project leadership. We want to see how you’ve driven growth and delivered complex projects!
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and understanding their projects and values. Practice common interview questions and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. We believe confidence is key, so go in ready to impress!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Director, Project Planning in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in business development and project leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements in the built environment sector!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this senior leadership position. Share specific examples of how you've driven revenue growth and strengthened client relationships in your previous roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: We’re looking for someone who can lead teams effectively. In your application, give us a glimpse into your leadership style and how you’ve mentored staff or improved team performance in the past. It’s all about collaboration and growth!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Gray Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the architectural landscape, especially in areas like Defence, Healthcare, and Life Science. Brush up on recent projects and trends in these sectors, as well as the specific regulations that apply. This will show your depth of knowledge and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, particularly in managing multidisciplinary teams and complex projects. Be ready to discuss how you've driven performance and influenced strategic decisions in previous roles. This is crucial for a senior position like this one.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Since relationship management is key, think about how you can demonstrate your ability to build and maintain strong client relationships. Share stories of how you’ve successfully collaborated with clients, consultants, and contractors to secure new business opportunities.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Given the financial oversight aspect of the role, be prepared to discuss your understanding of financial performance metrics, including fees, invoicing, and debt recovery. Bring examples of how you’ve contributed to revenue growth and managed budgets effectively in past projects.