Associate Director - Aviation Experience - Global Design Practice in London

We’re working with a leading international architecture practice looking to appoint an Associate Director with strong aviation project experience. This is a senior leadership role, combining design excellence, team leadership and client-facing responsibility across complex UK and international aviation projects.

The Associate Director operates with a high level of autonomy, leading teams through all RIBA stages while supporting business development and mentoring junior staff.

Key Responsibilities

Project & Design Leadership

• Lead multidisciplinary teams on large-scale UK and international aviation projects across all RIBA stages
• Ensure high-quality design and technical delivery, on time and within budget
• Coordinate project programmes, resources and workflows
• Lead project meetings and contribute to key client presentations

Client & Business Development

• Act as a senior point of contact for clients, building long-term relationships
• Support new business development, including lead generation and fee proposals
• Contribute to bids, fee negotiations and project strategy

Team Leadership

• Inspire, mentor and develop junior and mid-level staff
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing studio culture
• Share best practice and drive innovation across teams

Commercial & Financial Management

• Manage project budgets, resources and fee performance
• Demonstrate strong commercial awareness and decision-making

About You

• Proven experience leading aviation projects (essential)
• Track record of managing large-scale UK and international projects through all RIBA stages
• Strong knowledge of UK and international construction regulations and techniques
• Confident presenter with the ability to produce high-quality design and presentation material
• Commercially astute with excellent organisational and people management skills
• Proficient in Revit
• Degree-qualified in Architecture or related field
• Professional registration preferred

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience
• Agile working: 3 days in the studio / 2 days WFH
• Career progression within a global, design-led practice
• Inclusive, collaborative studio culture with regular social activities
• 23 days annual leave + option to buy more
• Private medical, life insurance and pension

Please get in touch ASAP for more information.