Lead Architect - Mixed-Use Urban Developments

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision coverage

Leadership development opportunities

Generous annual leave

Hybrid work flexibility

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Architect to drive the design of ambitious mixed-use urban developments in Randburg, Gauteng. This senior role requires exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of urban planning, delivering contextually sensitive architectural solutions.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong portfolio of large-scale urban projects, with experience in stakeholder management, master planning, and regulatory submissions, and will lead design teams within a hybrid work

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning from a leading institution.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant professional experience, with leadership in large-scale mixed-use urban developments.
• Professional registration with SACAP or a relevant South African body.
• Proven expertise in urban design, master planning, and multi-disciplinary coordination.
• Strong skills in architectural design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp) and urban analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural vision and design direction for major mixed-use developments in Randburg.
• Develop master plans and detailed designs integrating diverse functions and public spaces.
• Collaborate with city planners, developers, engineers, landscape architects, and communities.
• Ensure designs respond to site context, sustainability, and public realm quality.
• Mentor design teams and oversee design documentation and regulatory submissions.
• Ensure compliance with zoning regulations and building codes in Gauteng.
• Drive feasibility studies and design reviews.

Skills

Urban design leadership

Stakeholder management

Regulatory navigation

Presentations & negotiation

Education

Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Rhino

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished and visionary Lead Architect to drive the design of ambitious Mixed-Use Urban Developments in the thriving precinct of Randburg, Gauteng . This senior role demands exceptional leadership, a deep understanding of urban planning principles, and a proven ability to integrate residential, commercial, retail, and public spaces into cohesive and vibrant developments. The ideal candidate will possess a strong portfolio demonstrating successful execution of large-scale, complex urban projects that enhance community living and economic vitality. This is a significant opportunity to shape the future urban fabric of Randburg and contribute to landmark projects. We are looking for a strategic thinker with excellent stakeholder management skills, capable of leading design teams and navigating the intricacies of urban development. The role requires a commitment to sustainable design, community engagement, and delivering high-quality, contextually sensitive architectural solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural vision and design direction for major mixed-use urban development projects in Randburg .
• Develop comprehensive master plans and detailed architectural designs that integrate diverse functions and create dynamic urban environments.
• Collaborate closely with city planners, developers, engineers, landscape architects, and community stakeholders.
• Ensure designs respond to site context, promote sustainability, and enhance public realm quality.
• Manage and mentor architectural design teams, fostering a collaborative and innovative design culture.
• Oversee the preparation of design documentation, presentations, and regulatory submissions.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable zoning regulations, building codes, and urban design guidelines in Gauteng .
• Conduct feasibility studies, site analyses, and design reviews.
• Stay informed about cutting-edge urban design strategies and best practices.
• Contribute to the development and strategic growth of the firm's urban development portfolio.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning from a leading institution.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience, with a strong focus on leading the design of large-scale mixed-use urban developments.
• Professional registration with SACAP or relevant South African body.
• Demonstrable experience in urban design, master planning, and multi-disciplinary project coordination.
• Expertise in architectural design software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp) and urban analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of urban planning legislation, development economics, and community engagement processes.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects, multiple stakeholders, and demanding timelines.
• A robust portfolio showcasing impactful mixed-use urban developments.

Benefits

• A leading annual salary package of .
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and contributing to urban transformation.
• Generous annual leave and performance-based bonuses.
• The opportunity to work on transformative projects in Randburg and the wider Gauteng region.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment.
• Hybrid work flexibility to support work-life balance.