Principal Architect - Master Planning & Urban Regeneration

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 4,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Private healthcare

Retirement plans

International travel

Professional development support

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a distinguished Principal Architect to lead master planning and urban regeneration initiatives in Sandton, Gauteng. This senior leadership role requires strategic vision and extensive experience in large-scale urban development.

You will conceptualize and guide implementation of master plans, mentor multidisciplinary design teams, and manage stakeholder relations with clients, government agencies, and communities.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning.
• SACAP registration (Pr. Arch) required.
• Minimum 15 years in master planning and urban regeneration.
• Proven leadership of large, complex urban projects.
• Strong client and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Lead vision and execution of large-scale master plans.
• Develop urban design frameworks with sustainability.
• Manage client, government, and community stakeholders.
• Mentor multidisciplinary design teams.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic assessments.
• Present master plans to decision-makers.
• Ensure compliance with planning policies and legislation.
• Lead thought leadership in urbanism trends.
• Oversee budgets, timelines and resources.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Mentoring

Stakeholder management

Presentation skills

Education

Master's degree in Architecture/Urban Planning

SACAP registration (Pr. Arch)

15+ years of experience

Tools

AutoCAD

GIS

Rhino

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role Our client, a globally recognized architectural and urban design firm, is seeking a distinguished Principal Architect to lead ambitious master planning and urban regeneration initiatives in **Sandton, Gauteng**. This senior leadership role demands exceptional strategic vision, extensive experience in large-scale urban development, and a profound understanding of the complexities involved in revitalizing urban landscapes. You will be responsible for conceptualizing and guiding the implementation of comprehensive master plans that foster sustainable growth, enhance urban environments, and create vibrant communities. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of successfully delivering major urban projects, excellent client relationship management skills, and the ability to inspire and lead multidisciplinary design teams. This is a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of urban development in **Sandton** and beyond, contributing to significant societal and economic impact. Our client fosters a culture of design excellence and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the vision, strategy, and execution of large-scale master planning and urban regeneration projects.
• Develop comprehensive urban design frameworks, incorporating principles of sustainability, resilience, and social equity.
• Manage client relationships, government agencies, and community stakeholder engagement processes.
• Oversee and mentor multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring high-quality design outcomes.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site analyses, and economic impact assessments.
• Prepare and present strategic design proposals and master plans to key decision-makers.
• Ensure compliance with relevant planning policies, zoning regulations, and environmental legislation.
• Act as a thought leader, staying abreast of global trends in urbanism and architecture.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resource allocation for major urban development initiatives.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, or a related field.
• Professional registration with SACAP (Pr. Arch) and/or other relevant professional bodies.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience, with significant leadership roles in master planning and urban regeneration projects.
• Demonstrated success in managing and delivering complex, large-scale urban developments.
• Expertise in urban design principles, land use planning, and sustainable development strategies.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in relevant design and planning software (e.g., AutoCAD, GIS, Rhino, SketchUp).
• Experience navigating complex regulatory environments and stakeholder landscapes.
• A strong portfolio showcasing transformative urban development projects is essential.
• Experience working in **Gauteng** or similar metropolitan contexts is highly valued.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including significant bonus potential.
• Comprehensive benefits including private healthcare and retirement plans.
• Leadership role in shaping landmark urban developments in **Sandton**.
• Opportunities for international collaboration and travel.
• A highly professional and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Support for ongoing professional development and thought leadership.
• Generous leave and executive perks.