Associate / Director Architect – New Studio Launch, Oxford

Associate / Director Architect – New Studio Launch, Oxford Education & Sports/Leisure Sectors

An exciting and rare opportunity has arisen for an ambitious Architect operating at Associate or Director level to spearhead the launch of a brand-new studio in Oxford for a fast-growing, multi-office AJ100 architectural practice.

This is a rare chance to build something of your own, with the full backing, investment and expertise of an established, award-winning practice behind you every step of the way. You'll be given the platform, autonomy and support to establish a new studio from the ground up - shaping its culture, growing its team and cementing its name in a new region.

The practice has a well-earned reputation for delivering high-quality, design-led projects across the Education and Sports & Leisure sectors, and this new venture will look to build on that strength locally. As such, it is essential that anyone wishing to be considered for this role must come with extensive experience within these specific sectors! You'll bring your own network and business development instincts to identify opportunities, while drawing on the practice's national track record and resources to win and deliver work.

This role would suit someone who has reached a ceiling in their current position and is looking for a genuine leadership opportunity or someone who has already proven themselves in successfully doing the same for another firm.

This is a genuine chance to build something that will bear your own stamp in every meaningful sense.

What you'll be doing:

• Leading the strategic and operational launch of a new studio, including office setup and early-stage recruitment

• Building and developing a team as the studio grows, mentoring and upskilling junior staff

• Taking a lead client-facing role, driving new business development and nurturing long-term client relationships

• Running projects through all RIBA stages, from feasibility through to completion

• Acting as the face of the practice in the region, representing the brand and building its reputation

What we're looking for:

• RIBA/ARB registered Architect

• Demonstrable experience running projects through all RIBA stages

• Extensive experience within the Education and/or Sports & Leisure sectors including:

• Primary, secondary, further and higher education facilities

• Leisure projects for national sports federations, operators and local authorities

• Confident in a client-facing capacity, with a genuine passion for business development

• A proven track record of building, managing and developing a team

• Proficiency in Revit

As well as the chance to work on something that will genuinely elevate your career, the successful Architect will also receive an attractive package that includes:

• Salary likely to be in the region of £60k-£70k – (negotiable)

• Genuine flexible working opportunities – the firm already adopt hybrid working, flexible hours and early finishes at the end of the week

• Supportive, close-knit team environment

• Comprehensive CPD programme and in-house seminars

• ARB membership fees covered

• Generous holiday allowance, with option to buy extra and birthdays off

• Enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption leave

• Discounts on retail, travel & gym

If you're an ambitious Architect who feels that they could succeed in this leadership role then make sure you don’t miss your opportunity!

Hit apply with your up-to-date CV. For a confidential chat before you commit, reach out directly to Joey Waller at Conrad Consulting