Studio Manager | Values-Led Design Firm | London

Harmonic Operations™ | Certified B Corp; England; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A values-led design firm based in London is seeking a Studio Manager to oversee daily operations and support HR activities. This role requires proven experience in management within a busy environment, strong knowledge of HR processes, and excellent organizational skills. The firm fosters a collaborative culture and values professional growth. Join a team where your contributions can make a real impact.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Studio Manager or Operations role within a busy environment.
• Strong knowledge of HR processes, including recruitment and onboarding.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise effectively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily studio operations and ensure a smooth working environment.
• Manage office systems and process improvements.
• Assist with HR tasks including onboarding and staff records.

Skills

Operational management

HR processes

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Multitasking

Tools

HR software (BambooHR, Personio, HiBob)

Job description

Studio Manager | Values-Led Design Firm | London

Harmonic are thrilled to be working with a values-led design firm based in London, celebrated for its creative, sustainable, and forward-thinking approach to design. Working across exciting projects in architecture, construction, and the built environment, they collaborate with leading designers and developers to bring bold ideas to life. The studio prides itself on being innovative yet supportive, offering a workplace where people are encouraged to grow, contribute, and make a real impact.

With a strong culture of collaboration, curiosity, and professional development, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a team that values both technical excellence and the people who drive it.

The Role

In this dynamic role, you will collaborate closely with the Head of Studio, a mentor dedicated to fostering professional growth. Working alongside a team of directors, your contributions will be pivotal in driving the studio's success.

This pivotal role combines operational management with HR responsibilities, ensuring the studio functions efficiently while supporting the growth and wellbeing of our team. Around 70% of the role focuses on studio operations – maintaining an inspiring and well-managed workspace, coordinating resources, supporting leadership, and keeping systems running seamlessly. The remaining 30% has a strong HR focus, including recruitment, onboarding, employee engagement, and ensuring policies and procedures are followed.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily studio operations and ensure a smooth and creative working environment
• Manage office systems, data organization, and process improvements to enhance efficiency
• Assist with HR tasks including onboarding and maintaining staff records
• Support performance management processes, including reviews, appraisals, and training programs.
• Act as the first point of contact for clients, suppliers, and visitors, providing a professional and welcoming environment
• Manage office resources, supplies, and maintenance, liaising with external contractors when required.
• Support senior leadership with scheduling, meeting coordination, and studio communications.

What our client needs to see (required):

• Proven experience in a Studio Manager, Office Manager, or Operations role within a busy environment.
• Strong knowledge of HR processes, including recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations.
• Experience managing HR documentation, contracts, and compliance.
• Excellent organisational and multitasking skills with the ability to prioritise effectively.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust across all levels of the business.

What we’d like to see (preferred):

• Previous experience in an engineering, architecture, or design-led studio environment.
• Familiarity with HR software or systems (e.g. BambooHR, Personio, HiBob).

Location: London

Start Date: Flexible

At Harmonic, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and assure you that every candidate will be thoughtfully considered for the roles we represent, without regard to race, religion, gender expression, disability, or sexual orientation.