Associate Director

Penguin Recruitment; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An award-winning architecture practice is seeking a talented Associate Director to lead its Birmingham studio. This innovative firm is renowned for its commitment to sustainable design and community-focused projects. In this leadership role, you will manage project teams, mentor talent, and drive excellence in design outcomes. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and strategic thinking, this position offers the opportunity to shape a better built environment. Join a values-led culture where diversity and wellbeing are championed, and enjoy benefits such as flexible working arrangements and career progression opportunities.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Career progression opportunities

Inclusive culture

Three-day weekend every fortnight

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualification experience with a strong portfolio.
• Excellent knowledge of the Birmingham market.

Responsibilities

• Lead project teams and act as the principal consultant.
• Manage project programmes, budgets, and quality.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team Management

Sustainable Design

Strategic Thinking

Education

Qualified Architect

Job description

Associate Director

Location: Birmingham

Salary: £60-70,000

Reference: SFBIRM246

An award-winning architecture practice is seeking a highly talented and experienced Associate Director to join its Birmingham studio. With a strong presence across the UK and internationally, the practice is renowned for designing innovative, community-focused environments rooted in sustainability, belonging, and engagement.

Benefits:

• A leadership role within a people-centred, employee-owned business
• Flexibility, including the option of a three-day weekend every fortnight
• Career progression opportunities supported by senior leaders and sector experts
• A values-led, inclusive culture where diversity and wellbeing are actively championed
• The chance to shape a better built environment on projects that truly matter

Requirements:

• A qualified architect with significant post-qualification experience and a strong portfolio of delivered projects
• Excellent knowledge of the Birmingham market
• Demonstrated leadership in a design-focused role, ideally within a multidisciplinary or architectural practice
• Strong communication and team management skills, with a track record of inspiring colleagues and engaging clients
• A clear passion for sustainable and socially responsible design
• Ambition, strategic thinking, and a collaborative mindset

Responsibilities for the role of Associate Director:

• Lead project teams and act as the principal consultant within wider design collaborations
• Manage project programmes, budgets and quality, ensuring exceptional design outcomes aligned with the practice's core values
• Support and mentor team members, nurturing talent and promoting a collaborative studio culture
• Liaise directly with clients and stakeholders, maintaining strong, trusted relationships
• Collaborate with Directors and fellow senior staff to drive innovation and excellence across the practice

To apply, please call Sophie on 01792 963134 or alternatively, send your CV and Portfolio across to [e-mail]. I look forward to hearing from you soon.