Chief Design Architect & Client Growth Leader

Lathan McKee Architects; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Lathan McKee Architects in Birmingham, AL seeks a Principal Architect to lead design quality, client relationships, and successful delivery of projects. The role sets direction across the portfolio, guides teams, and ensures performance from pursuit through construction administration.

You will mentor staff, manage budgets, oversee BD efforts, coordinate with the Managing Partner, and represent the firm at industry events.

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch) from a NAAB-accredited program.
• Active architectural license in Alabama or ability to obtain via NCARB reciprocity within 6 months; NCARB Certificate preferred.
• Minimum 15 years of professional architectural experience, with at least 5 years in leadership or principal roles.
• Proven track record in developing client relationships and winning new business; Alabama/Gulf Coast network preferred.
• Experience managing project budgets, contracts, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong knowledge of building codes (IBC), ADA, and state/local codes.
• Proficiency in Revit and/or AutoCAD; knowledge of Bluebeam and Deltek Vantagepoint preferred.
• LEED AP or similar sustainability credential preferred.
• Excellent leadership, mentoring, written/verbal, and presentation skills.
• Experience in a multi-office firm environment preferred.
• Ability to travel to project sites and client meetings.

Responsibilities

• Set design vision for projects and portfolio; lead design reviews at milestones.
• Serve as Principal-in-Charge with final accountability for design, scope, schedule, and budget.
• Act as primary client contact and build long-term relationships.
• Lead business development: identify opportunities, proposals, fees, and client interviews.
• Oversee project teams; set priorities and ensure adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.
• Review and approve project fees, staffing, and work plans; monitor financial performance.
• Manage construction documents and ensure compliance with codes, accessibility, and life safety.
• Provide oversight during construction administration, including site visits.
• Mentor architects and staff; participate in hiring and performance reviews.
• Represent the firm at industry events and professional organizations.

Skills

Leadership

Client relationships

Project management

Budgeting

Communication

Mentoring

Travel readiness

Education

NAAB-accredited degree (B.Arch/M.Arch)

Alabama architectural license

NCARB reciprocity

LEED AP (preferred)

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Bluebeam

Deltek Vantagepoint

Job description

Lathan McKee Architects in Birmingham, AL seeks a Principal Architect to lead design quality, client relationships, and successful delivery of projects. The role sets direction across the portfolio, guides teams, and ensures performance from pursuit through construction administration.

You will mentor staff, manage budgets, oversee BD efforts, coordinate with the Managing Partner, and represent the firm at industry events.