Operations Director for Award-Winning Architecture Practice

Place; England; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned architecture and design studio in the UK is seeking an experienced Operations Director to lead overall operations and strategy. You will oversee management functions, compliance, and support the studio's growth initiatives, ensuring a smooth and efficient working environment. The ideal candidate should have substantial experience in operations within architecture and design, excellent communication skills, and a pragmatic approach. This vital role supports the studio's evolution in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in operations or practice management within architecture and design is essential.
• Calm, adaptable and solutions-focused, with excellent communication skills.
• Comfortable operating at both strategic and detail levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead overall operational management of the practice, reporting to the board.
• Develop and deliver operational strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee studio operations, resourcing coordination and support growth initiatives.
• Own compliance, risk and governance, including ISO 9001 / 14001.
• Lead the practice’s B Corp certification process.

Skills

Leading complex operational functions

Excellent communication skills

Hands-on, pragmatic approach

Job description

A highly regarded London-based architecture and design studio is seeking an experienced and dynamic Operations Director to play a pivotal role in the successful running of its growing practice.

This is a standout senior position within a studio of over 100 architects, interior designers and researchers, united by a shared passion for materials, craft, technology and making. Working within a collaborative environment, the Head of Operations will be central to ensuring the studio runs smoothly, efficiently and with confidence as it continues to evolve.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the overall operational management of the practice, reporting to the board and supporting directors and senior leaders
• Develop and deliver operational strategy aligned with business objectives
• Oversee studio operations, resourcing coordination and support growth and change initiatives
• Own compliance, risk and governance, including ISO 9001 / 14001, Health & Safety, and insurances
• Lead the practice’s B Corp certification process
• Oversee facilities, studio environment, equipment and landlord relationships
• Lead IT strategy, systems development and line manage the IT function
• Provide senior oversight of finance, HR and budgets, supporting training and development initiatives
• Oversee workshop operations and ensure alignment with studio and project needs

About you

• Substantial experience in operations or practice management within architecture and design is essential
• Confident leading complex operational functions with a hands‑on, pragmatic approach
• Calm, adaptable and solutions-focused, with excellent communication skills
• Comfortable operating at both strategic and detail levels

Joining a collaborative and ambitious studio environment, the Operations Director will be a trusted partner to the leadership team and a key enabler of the practice’s success. This is an opportunity for someone who enjoys being deeply involved and making things work well for others.

We will do our very best to help you find your ideal job. Our approach is personable and we believe that your job hunting experience should be enjoyable. We look forward to hearing from you.

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