Practice Manager

NISSEN RICHARDS STUDIO; London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Part time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a proactive and organized Practice Manager to ensure the smooth operation of their design studio. In this dynamic role, you will be responsible for office management, supporting directors, and overseeing HR functions. Your excellent communication and organizational skills will be crucial as you manage finances, coordinate projects, and liaise with clients. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to a creative environment while ensuring operational efficiency. If you are detail-oriented and thrive in a fast-paced setting, this could be the perfect fit for you.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a similar role within an architectural/design firm.
• Strong administrative, communication, and organisational skills required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee office management, support directors, and handle HR tasks.
• Manage finances, bookkeeping, and maintain health & safety standards.

Skills

Administrative Skills

Communication Skills

Organisational Skills

Time Management

Problem-Solving

Education

Experience as Practice Manager or Studio Manager

Experience in Architectural or Design Firm

Tools

MS Office Suite

Adobe Creative Suite

Xero

Job description

Practice Manager / Studio Manager

We are seeking an experienced, highly organised, and enthusiastic Practice Manager to oversee the smooth running of our design studio. The ideal candidate will bring energy, initiative, and a positive, professional attitude to a varied and rewarding role.

Key Responsibilities

Office Management & Admin

• Oversee the general running of the office to ensure an efficient, smooth environment.
• Act as first point of contact for visitors and phone calls.
• Maintain cleanliness and tidiness of office, enforce clean desk policy, and supervise the office cleaner.
• Manage office supplies, equipment, and maintenance needs.

Director Support

• Provide key administrative support to the two Directors.
• Assist with travel bookings and diary management.
• Collaborate closely with the Bid Manager and Business Manager.

HR & People Management

• Handle staff appointments, onboarding, inductions, appraisals, holiday and time tracking, and expenses.
• Coordinate staff socials, events, and outings.
• Keep personnel records accurate and up-to-date.
• Support development and application of HR policies and procedures.

Finance & Bookkeeping

• Process supplier payments, staff expenses, and raise sales invoices.
• Liaise with clients regarding purchase orders and payments.
• Handle banking tasks and general bookkeeping (Xero).

Health & Safety / QMS

• Act as Health & Safety Officer for the office.
• Maintain and update the Quality Management System (QMS) as Quality Management Representative.

Project & Job Coordination

• Set up project folders and server files; support project resource planning.
• Assist with Appointment documents and tender submissions.
• Manage bid portals and be the point of contact for new tender opportunities.

Marketing & PR

• Liaise with PR consultants and organise photography and press releases.
• Support award submissions and maintain project information.

IT & Systems

• Assist with IT maintenance, software upgrades, and manage email inboxes.
• Oversee practice procedures and systems for continual improvement.

Membership & Renewals

• Manage renewals for company and staff professional memberships.

Research & Miscellaneous

• Assist Directors with project research and ad hoc tasks.

Candidate Requirements

Essential

• Minimum 2 years' experience as a Practice Manager, Studio Manager, or PA, ideally within an architectural or design firm.
• Strong administrative and office management experience.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Advanced organisational and time management capabilities.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.

Desirable

• Experience using Adobe Creative Suite, Xero, and project resourcing tools.
• Familiarity with bid portals and tender processes.
• HR experience including recruitment and staff support.
• A proactive, can-do attitude with the ability to think on your feet.
• Detail-oriented, with a strong problem-solving approach.
• Self-motivated and comfortable working independently.

We may consider part-time work.

How to apply:

Click on the 'Apply now' button below. Please upload your CV and a cover letter. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 13th May 2025. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer. No approaches from agencies please.