Associate Director

JR United Kingdom; Manchester; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent architectural practice in Manchester is seeking a commercially savvy leader to helm their projects and build client relationships. You will oversee project development from start to finish, mentor your team, and enjoy full autonomy in your role. This is a unique opportunity to shape the practice's future while being part of a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Full autonomy in decision-making

Clear growth path to Directorship

Refurbished studio environment

Industry visibility and representation

Support from the team

Qualifications

• Experience across residential and mixed-use sectors.
• Ready to step up as a Director or Associate Director.
• Strong understanding of feasibility and client care.
• Dynamic leader who engages with team and clients.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects from inception to completion.
• Develop new client relationships and enhance practice growth.
• Mentor the team, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Manage incoming inquiries effectively.

Skills

Client relationship building

Leadership

Business acumen

Communication

Project management

Job description

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Your new company
Ready to run your own show?
A modest but mighty architectural practice with a strong pipeline, a freshly refurbished studio, and a reputation for delivering thoughtful, client-focused design across the residential, mixed-use, and tall builds. Now, they are looking for a commercially savvy, client-facing leader to take the reins and help shape their next chapter in the Manchester market.
Your new role

• Leading projects from day one - they have got three confirmed and two in negotiation just in the North-West alone with a strong portfolio and pipeline.
• Developing new client relationships and helping grow the practice
• Bringing clarity and confidence to a busy studio with lots of incoming enquiries.
• Mentoring the team and shaping the future of the practice with full autonomy.

What you'll need to succeed

• You've worked across sectors - residential, mixed-use, and you're ready for something broader, more meaningful, and more yours.
• A Director or Associate Director ready to step up - someone known in the industry and has the gravitas to lead.
• A business-minded architect who understands feasibility, fee letters, variations, and client care.
• A natural communicator who picks up the phone, builds relationships, and wins work.
• Someone whose dynamic - we're collaborative, social, and grounded.
• A leader who can tie it all up: from concept to client meetings, from delivery to BD.

What you'll get in return

• Full Autonomy: This isn't just a job - it's a chance to shape and lead a practice. You'll have the freedom to make decisions, win work, and build something meaningful.
• Clear Growth Path: Start as Associate Director if needed, but the runway to Directorship is real.
• Refreshed Studio: We've just completed a refurbishment, creating a space that reflects our energy
• Industry Visibility: We're active on social media and known for our thoughtful approach. You'll be front-facing, building relationships and representing a practice with real credibility.
• Support Where It Counts: You'll have backup - but you'll also be trusted.

What you need to do now
Reach out to me directly at or call me directly on 0161 2364949
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