At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a talented team in delivering high-profile international projects.
- Company: Dynamic interior architecture practice based in Soho, focused on placemaking.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of design while leading a passionate team in a creative environment.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in interior architecture or design-led practices.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to excellence and innovation in the built environment.
The predicted salary is between 95000 - 130000 £ per year.
A leading UK-based interior architecture and placemaking practice is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to work closely with the founding partners in leading and growing the business. Based in Soho, the studio is comprised of around 70 interior architects, designers, and support staff and delivers high-profile international projects across multiple sectors.
This is a senior, client-facing leadership role with responsibility for the business, operational, commercial, and financial performance of the practice. The COO will oversee day-to-day operations, fee forecasting, and financial management, while also playing a key role in people leadership and studio culture. Acting as a trusted partner to the founders, they will help shape the strategic direction and long-term success of the practice.
The role will suit an experienced leader (potentially an ex-architect or interior architect) who combines strong commercial and financial acumen with genuine design sensibility and gravitas, and who is comfortable operating at senior level within the world of interior architecture and placemaking.
Responsibilities- Lead and inspire a team of approximately 70 interior architects and designers
- Manage the operational and financial performance of the practice, including fee forecasting and monthly P&L oversight
- Work closely with the founding partners on business strategy, growth, and studio management
- Act as a senior, client-facing representative of the practice
- Shape, communicate, and deliver the practice’s strategic priorities, objectives, and areas for improvement
You are a commercially astute, people-focused leader with senior experience within an interior architecture, architecture, or design-led practice. You bring a strong understanding of how creative studios operate, balancing design excellence with financial performance and operational rigour.
You are confident in a client-facing role and comfortable representing a practice at the highest level, with the presence and gravitas to operate within the placemaking and built environment sector. You may be an ex-architect or interior architect, or a business leader who has worked extensively within a design-led studio environment.
You are strategic yet hands-on, able to manage the day-to-day running of the business while working closely with founding partners on long-term growth and direction. Above all, you are a collaborative leader who inspires teams, builds trust, and helps create a high-performing, sustainable studio culture.
Chief Operating Officer for Internationally Focussed Interior Architecture Practice in Slough employer: Place
Contact Detail:
Place Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer for Internationally Focussed Interior Architecture Practice in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the interior architecture world and let them know you're on the hunt for a COO role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your experience in managing teams and driving business growth. They want to see that you can inspire and lead a diverse group of creatives.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss strategy! Prepare to talk about how you've shaped business strategies in the past and how you plan to contribute to the long-term success of the practice. This is your moment to shine as a strategic thinker!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of exciting opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly through us gives you a better chance to stand out. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer for Internationally Focussed Interior Architecture Practice in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the COO role. Highlight your leadership experience in interior architecture or design-led practices, and don’t forget to showcase your commercial acumen!
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 our practice. Share your vision for the role and how you can contribute to our studio culture and strategic goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, give us a glimpse of your leadership style. We want to know how you inspire teams and foster collaboration. Share examples of how you've successfully managed operations and financial performance in previous roles.
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’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Place
✨Know Your Numbers
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics like P&L statements and fee forecasting. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets in the past and how you can apply that experience to this role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role is all about people leadership. Prepare examples of how you've inspired teams and fostered a positive studio culture. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you navigated them while keeping your team motivated.
✨Understand the Design Landscape
Since this position is within an interior architecture practice, it's crucial to have a solid grasp of design principles. Familiarise yourself with recent projects from the firm and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their creative vision while ensuring operational efficiency.
✨Align with Their Vision
Research the company's strategic priorities and be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with their goals. Show that you're not just a fit for the role but also passionate about contributing to the long-term success of the practice.