This award-winning architectural practice is driven by people: those who commission the work, use the buildings, and form the communities the projects serve. Balancing creative vision with commercial viability, the studio collaborates closely with clients to deliver iconic destinations that enrich people’s lives, strengthen communities, enhance nature and create lasting economic value.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the creation of viable and sustainable communities, shaping places that are rich in culture, energy, locality and legacy.

About the Role

The Associate Director will lead and inspire the design team to deliver innovative, thoughtful and high-quality projects, ensuring work is completed on time and within budget. From concept through to completion, the role involves overseeing the creative process with a high level of autonomy while engaging with Directors where appropriate.

The role also involves mentoring and developing junior team members, supporting their professional growth and technical development. In addition, the successful candidate will contribute to business development initiatives and actively support the generation of new opportunities across both existing and emerging markets.

Key Requirements

• Highly creative, with a strong track record of delivering innovative and high-quality design across large-scale masterplanning and urban design projects.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clients and stakeholders while building strong professional relationships.
• Commercially aware, with demonstrated experience in sound decision-making, budget management and efficient project resourcing.
• Strong leadership capability, with experience mentoring and developing junior staff while fostering collaboration and innovation.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to plan, coordinate and manage project processes from concept through to completion.

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery

• Manage multiple projects and teams to deliver consistently high standards of design and technical quality.
• Develop expertise in specific design areas, working towards establishing recognised specialist knowledge within the field.
• Plan, coordinate and manage project processes while maintaining active involvement throughout all stages.
• Lead project meetings and participate in client presentations, increasingly acting as a primary point of contact for clients and maintaining relationships that encourage repeat business opportunities.

Management & Leadership

• Champion the practice’s values and contribute to a collaborative studio culture where innovation and best practice are encouraged.
• Provide leadership, guidance and training to junior team members, offering regular feedback that supports their creative, technical and professional development.
• Contribute to studio and team initiatives, facilitate brainstorming sessions and help maintain a positive and productive working environment.

Client Relationships & Business Development

• Support colleagues in the development of new business opportunities and contribute to strengthening internal and external communication through industry events, forums and publications.
• Assist with the preparation of fee bids and contribute to fee proposals and negotiations for projects.

Financial & Budget Control

• Demonstrate a strong understanding of cost control, fee management and project finance.
• Ensure project targets are met through effective management of time, resources and project budgets.

Benefits

The practice is committed to creating an environment in which team members are supported, valued and able to grow professionally. Benefits include:

• Health insurance and life assurance
• Cycle to work and technology scheme
• Monthly studio lunch
• Outreach opportunities
• Weekly Thursday evening social drinks
• Extensive social calendar
• Comprehensive CPD programme

Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work permanently in the UK and possess fluent written and spoken English. The practice is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

Application Process

Applicants should submit a CV, portfolio and covering letter referencing the Associate Director – Masterplanning & Urban Design role.

The interview process will consist of two stages:

an initial interview via Teams, followed by a second in-person interview at the studio for shortlisted candidates.