Design Director

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Design Director to lead architectural design strategy, project quality, client relationships, and creative direction across the business.

You will oversee major design programmes, guide multidisciplinary teams, maintain high architectural standards, and work closely with clients, consultants, contractors, and senior leadership.

This opportunity is suited to an accomplished architectural professional with extensive experience leading complex projects and design teams.

Why Join Us?

Design Leadership

Shape architectural direction, design standards, and project quality across the organisation.

High-Impact Projects

Lead significant commercial, residential, and mixed-use design programmes.

Client Influence

Work directly with clients, consultants, contractors, and senior decision-makers.

Professional Growth

Expand your leadership experience across architecture, business development, project delivery, and team development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design strategy and creative direction
• Oversee concept, design-development, and project-delivery stages
• Review major project designs for quality and consistency
• Lead architects, designers, and project teams
• Manage relationships with key clients and consultants
• Present design concepts and recommendations to stakeholders
• Coordinate with planning, engineering, and construction professionals
• Oversee project programmes, resources, and design priorities
• Monitor design fees, budgets, and project performance
• Support major bids, proposals, and new-business opportunities
• Maintain architectural and technical quality standards
• Review project risks and recommend practical solutions
• Support planning and regulatory submission strategies
• Encourage efficient use of BIM and digital design tools
• Recruit, mentor, and develop design professionals
• Establish team objectives and monitor performance
• Support continuous improvement across design processes
• Represent the company in key client and industry meetings

What We Are Looking For

Experience

• Eight or more years of relevant architectural or design experience
• Significant experience leading complex architectural projects
• Proven responsibility for multidisciplinary design teams
• Strong client and consultant management experience
• Experience overseeing project budgets, resources, and delivery
• Background in commercial, residential, workplace, hospitality, or mixed-use projects is beneficial

Skills

• Strong architectural and creative leadership abilities
• Excellent design judgement and attention to quality
• Confident client and stakeholder communication
• Strong project and resource-management skills
• Commercial awareness and budget-management ability
• Excellent presentation and negotiation skills
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Knowledge of BIM, CAD, and architectural design software
• Understanding of UK planning and building requirements
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
• Strong mentoring and team-development capabilities

Education

• Degree in Architecture or a closely related discipline
• ARB registration or equivalent professional standing preferred
• RIBA membership or comparable professional accreditation is advantageous

Pay: £95,000.00-£115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Health & wellbeing programme
• Private dental insurance
• Private medical insurance

Work Location: In person