studio manager

TN United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dynamic and award-winning architecture and design studio as a Practice Manager. This role involves overseeing office operations, supporting Directors, and managing HR functions. Ideal candidates are organised, proactive, and possess strong communication skills. You'll ensure a smooth work environment while contributing to a creative and fast-paced atmosphere. If you're passionate about design and thrive in a supportive role, this opportunity is perfect for you. Be part of a team that values innovation and collaboration, and where your contributions will make a significant impact.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience as a Practice Manager or similar role.
• Strong administrative and office management expertise.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and office management tasks.
• Provide administrative support to Directors and handle HR functions.

Skills

Organisational Skills

Communication Skills

Time Management

Problem-Solving

HR Management

Office Management

Tools

MS Office Suite

Adobe Creative Suite

Xero

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Practice Manager / Studio Manager to join a dynamic and award-winning architecture and design studio in London. As a key member of the team, you will oversee the smooth running of the office and provide vital support to the Directors. If you have a passion for design, strong organisational skills, and a proactive attitude, we want to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities:

1. Office Management & Administration
   1. Oversee daily operations to ensure a smooth and efficient work environment
   2. Act as the first point of contact for visitors and phone calls
   3. Maintain office cleanliness, enforce clean desk policy, and supervise office cleaner
   4. Manage office supplies, equipment, and maintenance
2. Director Support
   1. Provide essential administrative support to the Directors
   2. Assist with travel bookings, calendar management, and general coordination
   3. Work closely with the bid manager and business manager
3. HR & People Management
   1. Handle staff appointments, onboarding, inductions, appraisals, holiday tracking, and expenses
   2. Coordinate staff social events and team outings
   3. Maintain up-to-date personnel records and support the development of HR policies
   4. Process supplier payments, staff expenses, and raise sales invoices
   5. Liaise with clients regarding purchase orders and payments
   6. Handle banking tasks and general bookkeeping (Xero)
4. Health & Safety / Quality Management Systems (QMS)
   1. Act as the Health and Safety Officer for the office
   2. Maintain and update the Quality Management System (QMS)
5. Project Coordination
   1. Set up project folders and server files, support project resource planning
   2. Assist with tender submissions and manage bid portals
   3. Act as the primary point of contact for new tender opportunities
6. Marketing & PR
   1. Liaise with PR consultants to organise press releases and photography
   2. Support award submissions and maintain project information
7. IT & Systems
   1. Assist with IT maintenance, software upgrades, and manage email inboxes
   2. Ensure continuous improvement of practice systems and procedures
8. Membership & Renewals
   1. Manage renewals for company and staff professional memberships
   2. Assist Directors with project research and ad hoc tasks as required

Candidate Requirements:

1. Minimum two years’ experience as a Practice Manager, Studio Manager, or PA, ideally within an architectural or design firm
2. Strong administrative and office management experience
3. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
4. Advanced organisational and time management capabilities
5. Proficiency in MS Office Suite
6. Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Xero, and project resourcing tools
7. Familiarity with bid portals and tender processes
8. HR experience, including recruitment and staff support
9. A proactive, can-do attitude with the ability to think on your feet
10. Detail-oriented with a strong problem-solving approach
11. Self-motivated and comfortable working independently

If you’re looking for a varied and rewarding role in a creative, fast-paced environment, apply now!