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- Tasks: Lead operations and manage a talented team in a creative architecture practice.
- Company: Renowned mid-sized architecture firm known for design excellence and creativity.
- Benefits: Work-from-abroad options, generous leave, and opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Join a collaborative environment and drive the practice forward during an exciting growth phase.
- Qualifications: Experience in operations or practice management within architecture or design.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on people management and strategic support.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A highly sought after, mid‑sized architecture practice is seeking a Practice Manager (Associate) to join its London team. Renowned for the quality and ambition of its work, the practice has built a strong reputation for design excellence and creativity over many years. This Associate‑level role focuses on operational leadership, people management and strategic support, with responsibility for overseeing practice systems, finance and compliance, alongside the line management of a small, experienced team and direct reporting to the Founder.
The ideal candidate will bring experience from a design practice with international exposure, combining strong attention to detail and sound judgement with positive energy, initiative and a bit of fire, someone confident taking responsibility, building trust across the studio and helping drive the practice forward as it enters a new phase of growth. This opportunity would suit someone eager to progress their career in practice management within a collaborative and social environment. In addition to long‑term development and progression, the practice offers benefits including working‑from‑abroad options, generous annual leave and more.
Key Responsibilities:- Oversee the day-to-day operations of the studio, ensuring the smooth running of facilities, suppliers, health & safety and compliance.
- Act as a senior operational lead, working closely with Directors to support the long‑term objectives of the practice.
- Manage HR processes end-to-end, including recruitment, onboarding, training, wellbeing initiatives and compliance with employment legislation.
- Line manage key operational figures (4 in total) across studio management, compliance and finance.
- Lead on financial operations alongside the Finance Manager, including payroll sign‑off, billing and budgeting.
- Coordinate management meetings, resourcing discussions and reporting across the practice.
- Oversee IT systems, infrastructure and external consultants, supporting both day-to-day operations and larger IT projects.
- Maintain strong relationships across the wider practice, as well as external consultants, insurers and advisors.
- Significant experience in a senior operations or practice management role within architecture, design or built environment.
- Strong working knowledge of HR, finance and operational management in a studio environment.
- Experience working within a design studio that has international exposure is highly desirable.
- Line management experience and confident presenting to board members.
- Commercially aware with proven experience overseeing budgets, payroll and financial reporting.
- Confident managing IT systems and external consultants.
- Highly organised, proactive and able to operate calmly under pressure.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively across a studio team.
To apply for this position please click on the apply button to attach your CV (and portfolio for design positions). By applying for this role, you are confirming that you agree to our Privacy Policy (full details are shown at the bottom of our website), and that all details submitted by you are correct and to the best of your knowledge. The Crowd is an equal opportunities employer and agency.
Practice Manager (Associate) employer: The Crowd
Contact Detail:
The Crowd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Practice Manager (Associate)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the architecture and design scene. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the practice you’re applying to and understand their projects and values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in operational leadership and team management.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, let your positive energy shine through. They’re looking for someone who can bring a bit of fire to the team, so don’t hold back on showcasing your initiative and enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and ready to take that next step in your career.
We think you need these skills to ace Practice Manager (Associate)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your operational leadership and people management experience, as these are key for the Practice Manager role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to showcase your passion for architecture and design. Mention how your background aligns with the practice's values and goals, and don’t forget to express your enthusiasm for joining the team!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your previous roles, focus on your experience in HR processes, financial operations, and managing teams. This will demonstrate that you have the hands-on experience needed to excel in this position.
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, and you can easily attach your CV and any relevant documents.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Crowd
✨Know Your Practice Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the architecture practice's portfolio and recent projects. Understand their design philosophy and any unique approaches they take. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Practice Manager (Associate), you'll be expected to lead a team and manage operations. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed teams or projects. Highlight your ability to build trust and drive initiatives forward, as this aligns with what the practice is looking for.
✨Be Ready for Financial Discussions
Since the role involves overseeing financial operations, brush up on your knowledge of budgeting, payroll, and financial reporting. Be prepared to discuss how you've handled these aspects in previous roles, and think about how you can contribute to the practice's financial health.
✨Demonstrate Your Collaborative Spirit
This position requires excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively. Think of examples where you've worked effectively with diverse teams or external consultants. Emphasise your proactive approach and how you can foster a positive environment within the studio.
