Design Director

JR United Kingdom; Essex; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established architectural practice in Essex is seeking a Design Director to lead high-quality residential projects. This senior-level position requires strong planning expertise, client-facing skills, and the ability to manage a team effectively. The role includes strategic business development and offers performance-based incentives.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years’ experience in UK architectural practices.
• Strong background in planning and leading residential projects.
• Proven network with major housebuilders.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design and planning process for large-scale residential developments.
• Oversee project delivery to ensure quality and client satisfaction.
• Contribute to business development and drive practice growth.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Planning

Client Management

Team Management

Tools

Design Software

Planning Software

Job description

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Salary: DOE (Dependent on Experience)

Type: Full-Time, Permanent

An established and growing architectural practice in Essex is seeking an experienced Design Director to lead their team and drive forward high-quality, large-scale residential projects.

This is a senior-level leadership position ideal for a highly motivated individual with strong planning expertise, excellent client-facing skills, and a proven ability to manage and grow a team. The role also includes involvement in strategic business development and offers a performance-based incentive package to support revenue growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the design and planning process for large-scale residential developments
• Oversee project delivery to ensure quality, timely completion, and client satisfaction
• Guide and mentor a multidisciplinary team of architects and technologists
• Liaise directly with clients, planning authorities, and consultants
• Contribute to business development and help drive the practice’s growth
• Represent the practice at key industry and client meetings
• Identify opportunities and bring in new projects, with incentives linked to business performance

Candidate Requirements:

• Minimum 8 years’ experience working within UK architectural practices
• Strong background in planning and experience in leading residential projects
• Proven network and relationships with major housebuilders
• Strong leadership, communication, and presentation skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a senior management capacity
• Proficiency in relevant design and planning software/tools
• Solid understanding of UK building regulations and planning processes

We value diversity and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We take your privacy seriously and adhere to GDPR guidelines. By applying for this position, you provide us with your consent to hold and process your data.

Accessibility:

If you encounter accessibility barriers in the application process or if you have access needs and require support or adjustments to participate equitably in the recruitment process, please email [emailprotected] .