Design Director - Commercial, Mixed Use Sector, London

ZipRecruiter; London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A London-based studio seeks a Design Director to lead their commercial mixed-use sector, which represents a growth opportunity within the practice. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of architectural experience, a successful portfolio, and the ability to manage stakeholders while driving the sector's development.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in architecture.
• Portfolio of commercial mixed-use projects in the UK and/or Europe.
• Strong network of industry connections.

Responsibilities

• Lead the commercial mixed-use sector and manage a P&L.
• Develop and elevate the sector offering.
• Support team development and nurture talent.

Skills

Client-facing roles

Leadership

Public speaking

Stakeholder management

Innovative design

Education

Qualified architect (ARB/RIBA)

Job description

Job Description

A London-based studio is looking for a Design Director to lead their commercial mixed-use sector. This is a newly defined role that will sit alongside other sector leaders within the studio.

The vision is to grow this sector with a focus on markets in the UK and Europe. Currently, it is the studio’s smallest sector, and they have identified a clear gap—there is a need for senior leadership to develop and elevate the offering.

The studio has an established presence in other sectors, and there is real opportunity to cross-sell within the wider practice. The role will be supported by a peer leadership team. It would suit an architect ready to lead and take on the responsibility of heading a sector, managing a P&L, and who will enjoy the satisfaction of seeing a sector grow—reaping the rewards of their leadership abilities.

The role encompasses two clear skill sets - professionals who are work-winners with a strong network of industry connection or those with proven design pedigree and a portfolio that demonstrates significant impact across the UK and Europe.

This role would suit leaders who are looking to move away from politically led structures, who value the ability to make decisions quickly, and who have an entrepreneurial mindset. Those who enjoy running their own business unit within a business—will thrive here or nat to run a sector. You’ll have the support of resources, finance, legal, and operations, but the space to lead autonomously.

Architects who are driven to challenge themselves and develop not only their own careers but also nurture the careers of their team will be well suited to this opportunity.

Experience Required:

• A qualified architect (ARB/RIBA) with 15+ years of experience
• A portfolio demonstrating commercial mixed-use projects in the UK and/or Europe
• Has held client-facing roles and led multiple projects at scale
• Deep understanding of innovative design within a UK context
• Strong knowledge of London boroughs and the UK planning system
• Confident in presenting and public speaking
• Commercially astute, internally and externally, and able to manage a range of stakeholders
• Comfortable managing both upwards and downwards, taking full responsibility
• A passion for people, teams, and design excellence

This is a rare opportunity to shape the creative direction of a key design sector for the London office, with a focus on commercial mixed-use buildings. You’ll benefit from the backing of a strong brand and a wider studio network with international offices and cross-sector knowledge.