Principal Architect - Urban Regeneration Specialist

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first work culture

Competitive package

Professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Principal Architect to lead large-scale urban regeneration initiatives from a remote setting, guiding design teams and shaping master plans for Soweto and other urban centers.

We require 15+ years in architectural practice with leadership in regeneration, mastery of BIM/GIS, and strong stakeholder engagement. SACAP registration is preferred. This role offers remote work with a competitive package.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, or Urban Design with regeneration focus.
• 15+ years in architectural practice and urban design with leadership roles in regeneration.
• Proven track record delivering large-scale regeneration initiatives.
• Strong understanding of urban dynamics, community engagement and sustainable development.
• Expert proficiency in BIM and GIS software.
• Outstanding leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Experience managing multiple complex projects and diverse stakeholders.
• Knowledge of Soweto context is advantageous.
• Registered Architect with SACAP or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Lead vision and design direction for large urban regeneration projects.
• Develop architectural and urban design solutions addressing social, economic, and environmental issues.
• Mentor multi-disciplinary teams in a remote-first environment.
• Engage with community groups, government agencies, developers, and stakeholders.
• Oversee full project lifecycle from concept to post-occupancy evaluation.
• Ensure designs are culturally relevant and sustainable.
• Present design proposals, master plans, and policy recommendations.
• Drive research into best practices in urban regeneration.
• Champion firm values and transformative urban development.
• Manage budgets, timelines, and resources.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Negotiation

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

BIM

GIS

Portfolio of regeneration projects

Education

Master’s degree in Architecture/Urban Design/Urban Planning

Tools

Revit/BIM

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a visionary architectural and urban design consultancy, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Architect with a specialization in urban regeneration to lead transformative projects. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while contributing to impactful developments in areas such as Soweto and other urban centers. The role demands a strategic thinker and visionary leader capable of conceiving and implementing complex regeneration strategies that enhance community, sustainability, and economic vitality. You will spearhead multi-disciplinary teams, engage with diverse stakeholders, and drive the design narrative for projects that redefine urban landscapes. We are looking for an architect with a profound understanding of urban challenges and a passion for creating resilient, inclusive communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic vision and design direction for large-scale urban regeneration projects.
• Develop innovative architectural and urban design solutions that address complex social, economic, and environmental issues.
• Manage and mentor multi-disciplinary project teams in a remote-first environment.
• Engage proactively with community groups, government agencies, developers, and other stakeholders.
• Oversee the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept development and feasibility studies to design implementation and post-occupancy evaluation.
• Ensure designs are contextually sensitive, culturally relevant, and promote sustainable practices.
• Prepare and present compelling design proposals, master plans, and policy recommendations.
• Drive research into best practices in urban regeneration and participatory design.
• Champion the firm's values and commitment to transformative urban development.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and resource allocation effectively.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, or Urban Design, with a strong focus on regeneration.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in architectural practice and urban design, with significant leadership roles in urban regeneration projects.
• Demonstrated success in leading and delivering complex, large-scale regeneration initiatives.
• Exceptional understanding of urban dynamics, socio-economic challenges, community engagement, and sustainable development principles.
• Expert proficiency in architectural and urban design software, including advanced BIM and GIS capabilities.
• Outstanding leadership, strategic thinking, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects and diverse stakeholder groups simultaneously.
• Experience working with or understanding of urban contexts like Soweto is highly advantageous.
• Registered Architect with SACAP or an equivalent international body.
• A powerful portfolio showcasing impactful urban regeneration projects and strategic design thinking.

Benefits

• This is a fully remote, Principal-level position offering a highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund provisions.
• You will have the unparalleled opportunity to lead world-class urban regeneration projects from anywhere in the world, making a significant impact on the future of cities.
• Our client fosters a dynamic, collaborative, and supportive remote work culture, prioritizing employee well-being and professional growth.
• This role offers exceptional career autonomy and the chance to shape significant urban transformations, leaving a lasting legacy.