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- Tasks: Lead operations, finance, HR, and strategy in a dynamic design agency.
- Company: Join a mid-sized, innovative design consultancy based in central London.
- Benefits: Enjoy bonuses, hybrid work options, and a focus on employee well-being.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a creative environment with strong leadership opportunities.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in design or consultancy required.
- Other info: Experience in the Middle East is a plus; this role is a unique chance to shine!
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
Our client, a mid-sized multidisciplinary design consultancy, is looking for a commercially minded and strategic Director of Operations to join them on a permanent basis at their office in central London. Within this role, you will work closely with the board of directors and act as the main linchpin for the practice, ensuring synchronicity across all departments. You will lead strategic, commercial, and operational initiatives and play a key part in driving the company forward.
The role is responsible for overseeing all operational aspects including but not restricted to HR, finance, studio facilities, administration, operations and more. This is a broad and exciting role where you can really make an impact in an organisation and be the ‘go-to’ person of the practice. The ideal person will have strong leadership and operational management skills – ideally within the built environment – coupled with architectural/project knowledge and the desire to make an impact within a creative environment!
Our client offers bonuses, hybrid/remote working options and a focus on employee culture and well-being. This is a rare and rewarding opportunity to join a desirable London based design practice!
Key Responsibilities:- Lead business operations, including planning, practice management, finance, HR, IT, and commercial functions, to ensure seamless and efficient processes.
- Manage financial tasks such as cash flow monitoring, invoicing, bookkeeping, and fee negotiations for projects and tenders.
- Conduct comprehensive operational reviews, identify improvement areas, and implement strategies to enhance efficiency.
- Keep partners informed on key performance indicators, including financial health and revenue progress, to support strategic decision-making.
- Collaborate with design teams to understand project workflows, contributing insights without directly handling design tasks.
- Exceptional leader with solid operation/financial acumen.
- Experience within a design or consultancy environment.
- Proven expertise in business strategies and possesses a commercial mindset.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with a natural ability to build relationships internally and externally.
- Familiar with managing design practices is preferred.
- Experience working on projects in the Middle East is advantageous.
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.
Operations Director (Design Agency) employer: The Crowd
Contact Detail:
The Crowd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Director (Design Agency)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the design consultancy field. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or clients. Building relationships can give you insights into the company culture and operational challenges they face.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in operational management within the design sector. Understanding current best practices will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show that you're proactive about staying informed.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've improved operational efficiency in previous roles. Be ready to share metrics or outcomes that highlight your impact, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent projects and initiatives. Being able to speak knowledgeably about their work will not only impress the interviewers but also allow you to tailor your responses to align with their goals and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Director (Design Agency)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your leadership and operational management skills, particularly in a design or consultancy environment. Emphasise any relevant experience you have in managing financial tasks and improving operational efficiency.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your commercial mindset and strategic thinking. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully led business operations or implemented improvements in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your experience within the built environment and any projects you've worked on in the Middle East. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role and your understanding of the industry.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. Clear and professional communication is key, especially for a role that requires strong verbal and written skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Crowd
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Operations Director, strong leadership is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences leading teams and how you’ve successfully managed operations in a design or consultancy environment.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since the role involves managing financial tasks, brush up on your financial knowledge. Be ready to talk about your experience with cash flow monitoring, invoicing, and fee negotiations, as well as how you've contributed to financial health in past roles.
✨Understand the Design Process
While you won’t be directly handling design tasks, understanding project workflows is essential. Familiarise yourself with common design processes and be prepared to discuss how you can support design teams effectively.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
The role requires strategic thinking and decision-making. Think of examples where you’ve identified areas for improvement and implemented successful strategies. Be ready to share these insights during your interview.
