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- Tasks: Lead innovative urban design projects and collaborate with clients in the Middle East.
- Company: International design studio known for creativity and technical excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, clear progression, and a collaborative studio culture.
- Why this job: Shape vibrant communities and influence ambitious masterplans in a leadership role.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in architecture/urban design with strong project management skills.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor teams and contribute to studio strategy and growth.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Job Description
We’re working with a leading international design studio with a strong track record in large scale masterplanning projects across the Middle East and beyond. Known for their innovative approach to urban design and ability to deliver at scale, they combine bold creativity with technical rigour to shape vibrant, sustainable communities.
As their London studio continues to grow, they are looking for an experienced Associate Director (or a highly ambitious Senior Associate ready to step up) to join the leadership team. This is a pivotal role with both creative and client facing responsibility, offering the chance to influence design direction while remaining hands on with projects and tools.
What you’ll be doing
- Leading design and delivery on high profile masterplanning projects, particularly in the Middle East
- Acting as a trusted client facing lead, building relationships, presenting concepts, and navigating complex stakeholder environments
- Guiding teams from concept to delivery, ensuring projects achieve design quality and commercial objectives
- Remaining hands on in design and software – setting the creative benchmark and supporting teams with tools when needed
- Contributing to the wider leadership of the studio, helping to shape strategy, culture, and future growth
What you’ll bring
- 15+ years’ experience in architecture/urban design, with a strong track record in large scale masterplanning projects
- Previous experience working with Middle Eastern clients and navigating ambitious urban briefs
- Outstanding design and presentation skills, with confidence in leading client meetings and winning trust
- Ability to balance leadership with hands on project involvement. Not afraid to get into the detail when required
- Strong collaboration skills, with experience mentoring and developing teams
- Proficiency in design tools such as Rhino, Revit, and Adobe Suite (or equivalent)
Why join this team?
- Step into a leadership role within an internationally recognised, design led practice
- Shape and deliver some of the Middle East’s most ambitious masterplans
- A studio culture that values both design excellence and hands on collaboration
- Competitive package with clear progression and influence at the leadership table
Associate Director - Urban Design & Masterplanning employer: MADE Careers
Contact Detail:
MADE Careers Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director - Urban Design & Masterplanning
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up to date and highlights your best work, especially projects relevant to urban design and masterplanning. A strong visual presentation can really set you apart in interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to talk about your experience and how it aligns with the role. Tailor your conversation to showcase your leadership skills and hands-on approach to projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - Urban Design & Masterplanning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your 15+ years in architecture or urban design, especially your work on large scale masterplanning projects. We want to see how your experience aligns with our focus on innovative urban design and client relationships.
Be Client-Focused: Since this role involves a lot of client interaction, emphasise your ability to build relationships and navigate complex stakeholder environments. Share examples of how you've successfully led client meetings and gained their trust.
Demonstrate Your Design Skills: We’re looking for outstanding design and presentation skills, so don’t hold back! Include examples of your work that showcase your creativity and technical proficiency, particularly with tools like Rhino, Revit, and Adobe Suite.
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 to join our leadership team.
How to prepare for a job interview at MADE Careers
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in your past projects, especially those related to large-scale masterplanning. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, particularly in the context of Middle Eastern clients.
✨Showcase Your Design Skills
Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best work, focusing on innovative designs and successful project outcomes. Be ready to present these during the interview, explaining your design process and how you led teams to achieve high-quality results.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Since this role involves client-facing responsibilities, practice building rapport with your interviewers. Engage them in conversation about their projects and express genuine interest in their design philosophy. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with clients.
✨Be Hands-On and Collaborative
Emphasise your willingness to be hands-on in projects and your experience mentoring teams. Share examples of how you’ve balanced leadership with detailed involvement in design, showcasing your collaborative spirit and commitment to achieving project goals.
