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- Tasks: Manage daily studio operations and ensure a creative environment for 80+ employees.
- Company: Join a leading architectural practice in the heart of Manchester.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days holiday, a workplace pension, and wellness initiatives.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative culture that values creativity and excellence.
- Qualifications: Experience in studio or office management is preferred; knowledge of compliance is a plus.
- Other info: Diversity is celebrated; all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Studio Manager / Office Manager to join a leading Architect practice based in Manchester City Centre. The Studio Manager is central to the seamless running of the practice, ensuring that the team (80+ employees), clients, and visitors experience an environment that encourages creativity and excellence. This is a generalist role where you’ll oversee all aspects of studio operations, from day-to-day office management, to ensuring compliance with industry standards, including ISO 9001 & 14001, Planet Mark, and B Corp certification.
With a proactive mindset and a collaborative spirit, you’ll play a key role in maintaining a positive and inspiring workplace culture.
Key responsibilities:
- Studio & Office Management
- Compliance, Health & Safety, and Risk Management
- Training, CPD & Professional Development coordination
- Policy & Procedure Management
- Team and HR support
- Communication and collaboration
About you
- Experienced in a Studio Manager or Office Manager role, ideally within an architectural or creative environment, though not essential.
- Knowledgeable about ISO 9001, 14001, GDPR, and health & safety regulations.
- Skilled in CPD / training coordination, compliance management, and operational efficiency.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and document management systems.
- A proactive problem-solver with strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Experience in sustainability, CSR initiatives and an understanding of architectural workflows would be desirable but is not essential.
Benefits: Workplace pension with employer contributions and optional salary sacrifice scheme | 33 days holiday pro rata (including bank holidays) with full closure over the Christmas period | Employee Assistance Programme | Annual staff trip with travel and accommodation paid by the business | Free annual flu vaccinations | Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental leave | Enhanced sick pay scheme | Wellbeing initiatives and mental health first aiders | Cycle to work scheme | Inclusive social calendar.
Please apply attaching your CV.
The employer is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
Studio Manager / Office Manager employer: Smartsearch Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Smartsearch Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Studio Manager / Office Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific compliance standards mentioned in the job description, such as ISO 9001 and 14001. Being able to discuss these in detail during your interview will show that you understand the role's requirements and are proactive about ensuring compliance.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any experience you have in managing teams or office environments, especially in creative or architectural settings. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to foster a positive workplace culture, as this is a key aspect of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your knowledge of health and safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will show your potential employer that you take workplace safety seriously and can manage risks effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the architecture and creative industries, particularly those who have experience in studio management. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Studio Manager / Office Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in studio or office management, particularly within creative environments. Emphasise your knowledge of compliance standards like ISO 9001 and 14001, as well as any experience with health and safety regulations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific aspects of the job description that resonate with you, such as maintaining a positive workplace culture or your proactive problem-solving skills.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in training coordination, compliance management, and operational efficiency. Use examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you've successfully managed similar responsibilities.
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills: Since the role requires strong communication and collaboration, include examples of how you've effectively worked with teams or clients in previous positions. This will help illustrate your ability to maintain a positive environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smartsearch Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Studio Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully organised projects or improved office operations.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Compliance Standards
Since the role involves compliance with ISO standards and health & safety regulations, brush up on these topics. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles or how you would approach it in this position.
✨Highlight Your Interpersonal Skills
This role requires strong communication and collaboration skills. Think of instances where you've effectively worked with teams or resolved conflicts, and be prepared to share these stories during the interview.
✨Demonstrate a Proactive Mindset
The employer is looking for someone with a proactive approach. Prepare to discuss how you've taken initiative in past roles, whether it's improving processes or leading new projects, to show that you're a self-starter.
