Principal/Partner (Ownership Track)

Axis Recruitment; Toronto; On-site; CAD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading architecture firm in Toronto is seeking a Licensed Architect with over 10 years of experience for a senior leadership role. You will lead projects, mentor a team, and have the opportunity to acquire equity. Ideal candidates will possess strong business acumen, project management skills, and a builder’s perspective. Competitive compensation of $130,000 - $160,000 with bonuses offered.

Benefits

$500 referral bonus

Qualifications

• 10+ years of relevant experience with proven leadership.
• Strong grasp of project economics and budgeting.
• Willingness to invest in and grow the business.

Responsibilities

• Lead project delivery and client relationships.
• Mentor a tight-knit team and build accountability.
• Oversee the firm's strong reputation within the hospitality sector.

Skills

Ownership Mindset

Client Development

People Leadership

Business Acumen

Design & Technical Balance

Education

Licensed Architect (OAA)

Job description

We are representing an established architecture practice with decades of repeat business and trusted client relationships. The firm is known for its specialized expertise in hospitality projects and client-first service approach.

This is a rare opportunity for a licensed architect to step into a leadership and ownership role. The incoming leader will have the opportunity to acquire equity over time.

You’ll lead a close-knit team, guide project delivery, and shape the strategic future of the practice. The outgoing principal will remain involved for up to one year to ensure a smooth transition.

What We're Looking For

Ownership Mindset: You want to invest in and grow a business, not just hold a title.

Licensed Architect: OAA licensure is required. In good standing with the OAA.

Small/Mid-Sized Firm Experience: You may be in a setting where partnership isn’t immediately accessible but are ready to step into a leadership role.

Business Acumen: Comfortable with P&Ls, financial decision-making, and overall firm strategy.

Design & Technical Balance: You understand both design and delivery but don’t lead with ego. Hospitality sector experience is an asset.

Builder’s Perspective: Strong grasp of constructability and practical design solutions.

Client Development: Proven ability to build trust and win work.

People Leadership: Able to mentor, hold others accountable, and manage with calm authority.

Culture Fit: Preference for open communication, low bureaucracy, and no internal politics.

Responsibilities

• Step into a senior leadership role with a clear pathway to equity and ownership
• Oversee project delivery and client relationships across a focused portfolio
• Lead and mentor a tight-knit team, building accountability and professional growth
• Continue strengthening the firm’s strong reputation within the hospitality sector
• Take responsibility for account-level financials: tracking P&Ls, forecasting, and optimizing project margins
• Collaborate with investors on strategy, reporting, and governance
• Represent the practice with integrity, humility, and professionalism

Must-haves

• Licensed Architect (OAA)
• 10+ years of relevant experience, with proven leadership and account management responsibilities
• Strong grasp of project economics, budgeting, and profitability at both project and firm level
• Experience managing clients, teams, and consultants across design and delivery
• A desire to step into ownership

Compensation: $130-$160,000 (+/-) + bonus + perks.

We offer a $500 referral bonus for successful hires. If you refer someone who’s hired through Axis Recruitment, we’ll send you a thank-you bonus after their first 3 months.

At Axis, we consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, colour, religion, nationality, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any characteristic protected by law. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every single requirement.