Senior Project Architect

We are seeking an experienced Senior Project Architect to join a client-side project delivery team, with a strong background in commercial CAT A and CAT B fit-out projects.

This is a key client-side role, responsible for overseeing the architectural and design delivery of commercial projects from early-stage feasibility and briefing through design development, procurement, construction and handover.

Working on behalf of the client, you will act as a key interface between architects, consultants, project managers, contractors, landlords, occupiers and other stakeholders, ensuring that projects are delivered to the required design quality, programme, budget and commercial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the client-side architectural lead across CAT A and CAT B commercial fit-out projects.
• Provide architectural and technical leadership throughout the project lifecycle, from feasibility and briefing through to completion and handover.
• Establish and communicate the client's design brief, quality standards and project objectives to external consultants and delivery teams.
• Lead the appointment, briefing and management of external architects and design consultants.
• Review and challenge design proposals to ensure they meet the client's requirements, commercial objectives, programme and quality expectations.
• Oversee the development of CAT A and CAT B design packages, ensuring appropriate levels of information are produced at each stage.
• Manage and coordinate the design team on behalf of the client, ensuring effective communication and timely decision-making.
• Review and approve design information, specifications, drawings, schedules, samples and material selections.
• Ensure design proposals are technically robust, coordinated and commercially viable.
• Work closely with the Project Manager and wider client team to manage project scope, budget, programme and risk.
• Provide architectural input into procurement strategies, tender processes and contractor selection.
• Review contractor proposals, design development, value engineering and technical submissions from a client perspective.
• Monitor design progress against the agreed programme and identify potential delays or risks at an early stage.
• Attend and lead design team, client and project meetings, providing clear architectural direction and decision-making.
• Undertake regular site visits and inspections to monitor design quality and ensure the built product reflects the approved design intent.
• Review and comment on contractor and subcontractor design information, samples, mock-ups and technical proposals.
• Manage design changes, ensuring that implications for cost, programme, quality and client requirements are properly understood and controlled.

Desirable

• Strong understanding of the RIBA Plan of Work and the wider development/project lifecycle.
• Significant post-qualification experience within commercial architecture, workplace design, CAT A / CAT B fit-out or property development.
• Proven experience delivering or overseeing commercial office projects from feasibility through to completion.
• Previous client-side, developer-side or consultancy experience working closely with clients.
• Strong understanding of CAT A and CAT B commercial fit-out.
• Excellent knowledge of UK construction, detailing and technical standards.