Associate Architect
Higher Education
London, UK
This is an opportunity for a motivated and ambitious architect to step into a pivotal leadership role within the client’s close-knit and growing higher education team.
JOB SUMMARY:
This is an opportunity for a motivated and ambitious architect to step into a pivotal leadership role within the client’s close-knit and growing higher education team. The studio is seeking someone who thrives on leading teams, winning new work, and actively developing their professional network. The team specialises in UK university projects and has an established track record of successfully delivered schemes across London.
The practice comprises around 85 architects and designers working across multiple sectors from a central London studio. The Higher Education team is one of the newer groups within the practice and has already achieved notable success in the university sector, with strong momentum for continued growth.
The team operates with significant creative freedom, no prescribed house style, and genuine autonomy to shape project outcomes. A flexible approach to work–life balance is embedded in the studio culture. This role is suited to a future leader who is motivated by building and growing a studio, not solely by project delivery.
Responsibilities:
Work closely with stakeholders to create innovative design solutions focused on student learning outcomes and effective teaching environments.
Be at the forefront of learning design, pushing creativity and design thinking to enable flexible, fluid learning environments for both students and educators.
Lead and manage project teams, providing clear direction, mentorship, and fostering a collaborative studio culture.
Actively identify and pursue new business opportunities, contributing to work-winning efforts, pitches, and the growth of the studio’s network.
Lead the preparation and delivery of technical drawing packages and implementation documentation.
Develop and champion creative, robust, and buildable design solutions from concept to completion.
Lead client meetings, design workshops, and presentations, confidently engaging with stakeholders at all levels, including trusts and end-users.
Ensure compliance with relevant building regulations, planning, and zoning requirements.
Coordinate effectively with consultants, contractors, and statutory authorities to achieve project objectives.
Contribute to the resolution of technical challenges and design issues.
Participate in internal project reviews, design crits, and quality assurance processes.
Skills & Experience:
RIBA or ARB-registered architect with a minimum of 6+ years’ post-qualification experience.
Proven experience leading and managing multiple higher education (university) projects.
Demonstrable experience in designing learning environments that engage students and support a range of learning styles, enhancing learning outcomes.
Excellent client-facing skills, with confidence in presenting, pitching, and consulting with diverse stakeholder groups.
Proven delivery experience across all RIBA stages (0–7).
Strong design and technical capability, with a clear and confident creative voice.
Solid working knowledge of UK building regulations, and construction processes.
Highly detail-oriented, with a passion for quality, innovation, and well-crafted architecture.
This is an opportunity to join a respected, design-led practice where your leadership will directly influence the delivery of impactful higher education projects. You will be empowered to lead, innovate, and play a key role in the continued growth of the studio.
If you are a driven architect ready to take ownership, build a team, and shape the future of a higher education studio within a flexible and creative environment, we would welcome your application.
