Associate Architect (Director Designate) - Science & Innovation | Up to £108.5k + Bonus

ZipRecruiter; London; Hybrid; GBP 88,000 - 109,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent recruitment agency in London is seeking an Associate Architect (Director Designate) to lead and mentor a team in science and innovation design. This role offers competitive compensation of £88.5k to £108.5k plus bonus and benefits. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in leading projects and a strong understanding of the sector. The position allows for considerable autonomy and growth in a hybrid working environment.

Benefits

Performance-related bonus

Flexible working hours

Competitive benefits package

Qualifications

• Experienced in science, labs, pharma, or advanced manufacturing environments.
• Strong in early-stage design, briefing, and stakeholder engagement.
• Thinking like a No.1, even if current title says otherwise.

Responsibilities

• Step into a strategic Leadership role.
• Co-Lead a team of design professionals.
• Own the growth of a high-performing team.

Skills

Design Leadership

Stakeholder Engagement

Commercial Awareness

Early-stage Design

Education

ARB or RIBA registration

Job description

Job Description

Associate Architect (Director Designate) – Science & Innovation

Central London | £88.5k to £108.5k base + 8-10% bonus + benefits

Design Leadership | Sector Growth | Strategic Succession Hire

Still waiting for a senior to move so you can finally step up?

Stop waiting. Start leading.

You’ve put in the time.

You’ve delivered complex lab and science projects.

You’ve built trust with clients, led teams, and made a name for yourself.

But now… there’s nowhere left to go.

You’re operating under a sector lead who isn’t moving.

You’re the engine… just not the one steering.

If that sounds familiar, this might be your moment.

The Opportunity…

We’re partnering with one of the world’s most respected design-led firms to appoint it's next- leader in science, labs, healthcare and research-led environments.

This is not a support role.

This is not “more of the same”.

This is your chance to…

• Step into a strategic Leadership role.
• Inherit the contacts and knowledge of the current Directors.
• Co-Lead a talented team of 12 design professionals.
• Own the growth of a high-performing team.
• Work alongside a respected fellow Leader focused on delivery ops… so you can strategise, shape and grow.
• Be backed by senior industry voices who are invested in your development…. not protecting their turf!

What Makes This Different?...

• Designed for progression: This role was created for someone like you… who’s already leading but lacks the title, runway or platform.
• Mentorship without micromanagement: You'll be guided by trusted professionals in the science and innovation sectors… not micromanaged or side-lined.
• Become a visible voice: From roundtables to whitepapers to client advisory boards, you’ll be supported to shape conversations beyond your projects.
• Built-in support to help you grow: Business development doesn’t fall on you alone. A structured BD team supports your ambitions with insights, leads, and a clear growth plan.
• Shape your own direction: Whether you want to lean into advanced manufacturing, biotech, pharma or innovation spaces…. you’ll have the autonomy to carve your niche.

Who This Is For…

You're likely already a trusted voice in science-sector design.

You might not have had the spotlight yet…. but you’re ready for it.

We’re looking for someone who is:

• ARB or RIBA registered
• Experienced in science, labs, pharma, or advanced manufacturing environments
• Strong in early-stage design, briefing, and stakeholder engagement
• Commercially aware… even if your BD experience is informal, your presence wins trust
• Thinking like a No.1.... even if your current title says otherwise

The Environment…

• A globally trusted, design-led firm
• A flexible hybrid structure (2-3 days/week in London, other days flexible)
• Cross-sector exposure (science, pharma, HE, life sciences, advanced manufacturing)
• Interdisciplinary collaboration with consultants; engineers, sustainability consultants, PMs, and strategists.

The Package…

• Circa £88,500 to £108,500 base
• Performance-related bonus (8-10%)
• Competitive benefits
• Flexible + hybrid working

What Next?...

This isn’t just another step up....

It’s a career-defining move for someone who’s ready to shape the future of science-sector design… and be recognised for it.

Apply discreetly or reach out for a confidential conversation. We treat every conversation with care.