At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage daily operations and HR processes in a creative architectural studio.
- Company: Dynamic design-focused architectural studio with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Autonomy, creative environment, and opportunities for meaningful impact.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and help shape a high-performing studio.
- Qualifications: Experience in studio management or operations within creative industries.
- Other info: Exciting role with potential for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
About The Role: We are working with a mid-sized, highly desirable, design-focused architectural studio that specialise in a variety of ground-breaking cultural projects internationally. They are now seeking a Practice Manager to play a pivotal role in the operational, HR, and organisational running of the practice. Working closely with senior leadership, you will take ownership of the day-to-day management of the studio, ensuring that people, processes, and operational systems run smoothly. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys autonomy, thrives in a fast-paced creative environment, and is motivated by building a well-supported, well-organised, and high-performing studio.
The ideal candidate will be proactive, confident, and hungry for a challenge – someone who can bring structure, clarity, and energy to the role while maintaining a warm, people-first approach. The practice has a collaborative, inclusive culture, making this an exciting environment for a motivated operations professional looking to make a meaningful impact.
Key Responsibilities:- Oversee day-to-day studio operations, ensuring the practice runs smoothly and remains a welcoming, well-supported environment.
- Manage HR processes including onboarding, offboarding, contracts, performance cycles, and maintaining accurate staff records.
- Support leadership with recruitment coordination, wellbeing initiatives, and broader culture-building activities.
- Liaise with external finance teams on bookkeeping, payroll, invoicing, and financial reporting while monitoring budgets and operational spend internally.
- Coordinate facilities, suppliers, insurance, contracts, and IT support, ensuring all systems and processes are up to date and effective.
- Lead on compliance, health & safety, risk assessments, and operational policy updates.
- Plan and deliver internal events, meetings, and studio socials, fostering a positive, collaborative culture.
- Work closely with directors on strategic and operational initiatives, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and practice-wide workflow.
- Previous experience in a practice / studio management, or an operations role within architecture, design, or the wider creative industries.
- Strong organisational, operational, and people management skills.
- Confident across HR processes; CIPD advantageous but not essential.
- Comfortable liaising with external finance providers; experience managing budgets or financial admin.
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills.
- A proactive, hands-on attitude with the ability to work independently.
- Collaborative, approachable, and calm under pressure.
To apply for this position please click on the apply button to attach your CV (and portfolio for design positions).
The Crowd is an equal opportunities employer and agency.
Practice Manager in London employer: The Crowd
Contact Detail:
The Crowd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Practice Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the architecture and design world. Attend industry events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the studio's projects and culture. Show genuine interest in their work and think about how your skills can contribute to their success. We want you to stand out, so come armed with thoughtful questions that demonstrate your enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows you’re keen and professional, which is exactly the kind of attitude we love to see in a Practice Manager.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for proactive candidates who are ready to make an impact in a creative environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Practice Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Practice Manager role. Highlight your organisational and people management skills, as well as any relevant experience in studio or operations management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your passion for the role and the creative environment. Mention specific examples of how you've improved processes or supported teams in previous roles.
Showcase Your People Skills: Since this role is all about managing people and fostering a collaborative culture, make sure to highlight your communication and relationship-building skills. Share anecdotes that demonstrate your proactive and approachable nature.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details about our Privacy Policy there!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Crowd
✨Know the Studio Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research the architectural studio's recent projects and their design philosophy. Understanding their work will not only impress them but also help you tailor your answers to align with their values and culture.
✨Showcase Your People Skills
As a Practice Manager, you'll be working closely with various teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed people and processes in the past. Highlight your ability to foster a collaborative environment and maintain a warm, people-first approach.
✨Prepare for HR and Operational Questions
Expect questions around HR processes and operational management. Brush up on your knowledge of onboarding, performance cycles, and compliance. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Bring Your Problem-Solving A-Game
The studio is looking for someone who can identify opportunities for improvement. Prepare to discuss specific challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you tackled them. This will show your proactive attitude and ability to think on your feet.