Associate Director Architecture Location: Bedford (Hybrid) A highly respected multi-disciplinary consultancy is seeking to appoint an ambitious Associate Director to join its established architectural team. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a commercially minded architect who can balance work-winning capability, project delivery, and team leadership within a supportive and collaborative environment. With a long-standing reputation in the market and a strong cross-disciplinary offering, this role provides the opportunity to influence strategy, lead key projects, and contribute to the growth of a thriving architectural function. The Opportunity As an Associate Director / Director, you will take a central role in shaping the departments technical, design and commercial direction. You will lead across both project delivery and business development, representing the practice in the market while mentoring and supporting a high-performing architectural team. This position suits someone who naturally blends client leadership, commercial awareness, and technical expertise. Strong relationships with contractors, project managers and construction partners will be essential. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Strategy Contribute to department strategy, culture and commercial direction. Lead, mentor and develop team members. Support senior leadership and act as a key decision-maker when required. Business Development & Market Engagement Proactively generate and convert new business opportunities. Maintain and enhance long-term client relationships to drive repeat work. Represent the practice at networking events and industry forums. Project Delivery & Technical Excellence Lead projects across multiple sectors from concept to completion. Demonstrate deep technical and regulatory knowledge, including building regulations and construction standards. Ensure high-quality design, delivery, consultant coordination and project reporting. Conduct site visits, oversee project records and maintain strong delivery discipline. Contribute to fee proposals, bids and presentation material. Client & Stakeholder Engagement Act as a trusted senior representative for clients and multi-disciplinary project teams. Build strong relationships with contractors, project managers and wider stakeholders. Communicate clearly and effectively across all phases of the project lifecycle. About You We are seeking a senior architectural professional who demonstrates: 10 years' experience with clear progression into leadership roles. A strong blend of work-winning capability and project delivery leadership. Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with contractors and wider project partners. Strong commercial acumen and understanding of resourcing, fees and project budgets. Deep technical proficiency with building regulations, construction detailing and design standards. A stable career history demonstrating commitment and loyalty. Professional architectural qualification (ARB/RIBA). Whats on Offer A senior leadership role with genuine influence over team direction and strategy. A supportive, friendly and collaborative working culture with excellent retention. Hybrid working: 3 days in the office, 2 days from home. Opportunities to collaborate with in-house teams across multiple disciplines. The chance to join an established, reputable practice with a healthy pipeline of work and strong market presence.