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- Tasks: Lead creative projects from concept to completion while mentoring a talented team.
- Company: Award-winning design practice with a strong commitment to employee ownership and excellence.
- Benefits: Flexible working, health support, and opportunities for career development.
- Why this job: Join a culture that values creativity, collaboration, and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in the industry with strong leadership and project management skills.
- Other info: Travel across the UK for exciting project sites and dynamic teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
My client, a well-established, award-winning multidisciplinary design practice, is seeking an Associate Director to join their Leicester office. With multiple offices across the Midlands and London, they deliver inspiring projects nationwide, combining creativity, collaboration, and technical expertise. Travel across their offices and project sites will be required to suit project needs.
As a 100% employee-owned business, my client fosters a culture built on strong values, shared purpose, and a commitment to excellence, holding Certified B CorporationTM status, Investors in People Gold accreditation, and supporting the Real Living Wage.
Why Join- Flexible working arrangements and hybrid options
- Employee ownership – share in the practice's success
- Ongoing CPD, mentoring, and career development opportunities
- Health cash plan and wellbeing support
- Be part of a culture that challenges and supports you to excel
- Minimum 10 years' industry experience with a strong portfolio demonstrating diverse projects, preferably in schools, industrial, or residential sectors
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
- Strong leadership and project management skills, able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Thorough knowledge of all RIBA work stages
- A keen eye for design quality and attention to detail
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and other design software
- ArchiCAD experience is beneficial but not essential (training and CAD/BIM support provided)
- Lead multidisciplinary project teams from concept through to completion
- Mentor and support team members, fostering collaboration, innovation, and technical excellence
- Contribute strategically to the wider direction of the office and practice
- Review, produce, and coordinate high-quality technical design information across all RIBA stages
- Conduct site visits and represent the studio externally, promoting its vision and values
- Act as a key client liaison, managing productive relationships with clients, consultants, and regulatory authorities
- Apply practical, problem-solving approaches to complex design challenges
- Travel to project sites across the UK as required
- Work independently and collaboratively within a team
To apply: Please submit your CV and portfolio demonstrating your leadership experience and project work.
Associate Director employer: Planning Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Planning Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry folks at events or online. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best work. We recommend tailoring it to the specific role you’re applying for, so it really speaks to what they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. We want you to align your answers with their mission, especially since they value collaboration and creativity. It’ll show you’re a great fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your 10+ years of industry experience in your CV. We want to see a strong portfolio that showcases your diverse projects, especially in schools, industrial, or residential sectors. This is your chance to shine!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter. Tailor them to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We love it when applicants show they’ve done their homework about us and the role!
Communicate Clearly: Exceptional written communication skills are a must for this role. Make sure your application is clear, concise, and free of jargon. We appreciate straightforwardness, so let your personality come through while keeping it professional.
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 the role. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about our culture and values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Planning Recruitment
✨Know Your Portfolio Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your portfolio in detail, especially the projects that align with the role. Highlight your leadership experience and how you've managed diverse projects, particularly in schools, industrial, or residential sectors.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since exceptional written and verbal communication skills are crucial for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively liaised with clients and stakeholders in past projects.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Team Collaboration
Be ready to share examples of how you've mentored team members and fostered collaboration. Discuss specific instances where your leadership made a difference in project outcomes or team dynamics.
✨Familiarise Yourself with RIBA Work Stages
Brush up on your knowledge of all RIBA work stages, as this is essential for the role. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in previous projects and how it contributes to successful project delivery.