A practice known for combining design excellence with technical expertise, creating environments that prioritise human experience, sustainability and long-term value is seeking a Studio Practice Manager. Who will be responsible for the operational and financial management of a studio, with a strong focus on staff leadership, financial performance, and the continued growth of the practice. The role requires excellent relationship-building, collaboration, and interpersonal skills while delivering high-quality projects for a range of clients.

Responsibilities

• Collaborates in strategic planning for the studio and facilitates communication between the practice and other leadership teams, including reviewing marketing strategies and allocating project resources.
• Supports practice leaders and contributes to strategic planning, Objectives and Key Results (OKRs), and financial planning for the studio.
• Works alongside the Studio Practice Leader and Office Director to evaluate performance and support growth in line with the practice’s priorities, values, and long-term vision.
• Represents the interests, concerns, and operational challenges within the studio, ensuring issues are addressed efficiently and effectively.
• Communicates studio initiatives and strategic priorities to project teams where appropriate.
• Oversees projects within the studio, with a focus on project processes, service delivery, team environment, and project documentation.
• Actively manages staffing and scheduling, monitors utilisation and operational efficiency, and tracks financial performance across the studio, recommending adjustments where necessary.
• Collaborates with project managers, project architects, construction administrators, and designers across all project phases, providing guidance, mentorship, and leadership.
• Contributes from early marketing stages through to project completion, including programming, conceptual and schematic design, design development, and project delivery.
• Acts as a senior technical resource within the studio, supporting the resolution of complex issues and mentoring team members in their professional development.
• Serves as Senior Manager on studio projects and acts as a primary point of contact for clients.
• Applies strong negotiation and persuasion skills when addressing critical project or operational matters.
• Travel may be required as part of the role.

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a related discipline.
• Professional licensure or certification in the relevant field is preferred.
• Typically 15+ years of experience within the AEC industry, including leadership experience with demonstrated success in project delivery, financial management, and talent development.
• Familiarity with Vision or similar project management software is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Microsoft Teams.
• Demonstrated ability to connect people and resources effectively to meet project and operational needs.
• Proven track record of leading and motivating teams successfully.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a strong focus on collaboration and mentoring.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills when managing complex or sensitive issues.
• Highly developed leadership, organisational, and relationship management abilities.
• Ability to work closely with design leadership to promote an interdisciplinary design approach and support its integration across the practice.
• Collaborative and diplomatic leadership style, valuing strong internal and external relationships.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to implement innovative solutions.
• Ability to foster collaboration within a team environment and consistently deliver high-quality work within deadlines.