Lead Architect - Commercial & Institutional Design

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng is seeking an experienced Lead Architect to head the Commercial & Institutional Design sector. You will guide design teams, manage client relationships, and ensure design quality on major projects across corporate offices, education facilities and public amenities.

The role demands a strong portfolio, SACAP registration, and a track record delivering large-scale projects. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor staff, and drive innovative, high-performance

Qualifications

• Professional SACAP registration or eligible to register as a Professional Architect
• 12+ years of architectural experience with at least 7 years in a leadership role
• Proven track record delivering large-scale commercial/institutional projects
• Expertise in conceptual design, design development and construction documentation
• Proficiency in leading architectural software (Revit, AutoCAD) and visualization tools

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and technical direction to design teams on commercial and institutional projects
• Manage full project lifecycle from concept/feasibility to construction documentation and administration
• Cultivate and maintain long-term client and stakeholder relationships
• Ensure high standards of design quality, innovation and functionality
• Oversee preparation of design proposals, presentations and technical documentation
• Manage project timelines, budgets and resources
• Ensure compliance with building codes, regulations and accessibility standards
• Mentor and develop junior architects and staff
• Collaborate with engineers, consultants and contractors
• Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in design

Skills

Leadership

Design direction

Client management

Team mentoring

Communication

Strategic thinking

Education

SACAP Professional Registration

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Enscape

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading architectural practice, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Architect to guide their Commercial & Institutional Design sector in Sandton, Gauteng . This senior position involves overseeing the design and execution of significant projects, including corporate offices, educational facilities, and public amenities. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading design teams, managing client relationships, ensuring design quality, and upholding the firm's reputation for excellence. A strong portfolio demonstrating successful delivery of complex commercial and institutional projects is essential. This is a pivotal role for a motivated professional looking to make a substantial impact in one of South Africa's premier business districts. We are seeking a visionary architect who can inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and drive innovative solutions within a demanding professional environment. Your leadership will be crucial in shaping high-performance and aesthetically significant buildings.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and technical direction to architectural design teams working on commercial and institutional projects.


• Manage the full project lifecycle, from initial concept and feasibility studies to construction documentation and administration.


• Cultivate and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key clients and stakeholders.


• Ensure the highest standards of design quality, innovation, and functionality are met.


• Oversee the preparation of design proposals, presentations, and technical documentation.


• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant building codes, regulations, and accessibility standards.


• Mentor and develop junior architects and design staff.


• Collaborate effectively with engineers, consultants, and contractors.


• Stay abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and best practices in commercial and institutional design.

Requirements

• Professional registration with SACAP as a Professional Architect.


• A minimum of 12 years of extensive architectural experience, with at least 7 years in a leadership role.


• Proven track record of successfully delivering large-scale commercial and institutional projects.


• Expertise in conceptual design, design development, and construction documentation.


• Proficiency in leading architectural software (Revit, AutoCAD) and visualization tools.


• Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation, and client management skills.


• Strong understanding of project management principles and financial acumen.


• Ability to lead and motivate multidisciplinary teams.


• Deep knowledge of building codes, construction practices, and contract administration.


• A compelling portfolio showcasing impactful commercial and institutional designs.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary package, including performance-based bonuses and profit sharing.


• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund benefits.


• Generous opportunities for professional development, conferences, and further education.


• Hybrid work model providing flexibility.


• Opportunity to work on landmark projects in Sandton and contribute to the firm's prestige.


• Lead and mentor a talented team within a dynamic and professional setting.


• Exposure to prestigious clients and high-profile developments in Gauteng .