CK3450534 - Director of Architecture
Hampshire - £80-100k + Generous Benefits Package
An outstanding opportunity has arisen for a Director of Architecture to join a well-established, multi-disciplinary consultancy with a strong reputation for design quality and technical excellence. Based in Winchester, this role offers the scope to lead, shape, and grow a small but highly capable architectural team, fully supported by a respected national practice.
This position will suit an experienced Architect or Associate Director seeking a strategic leadership role that combines hands-on project involvement with studio leadership, client engagement, and business growth.
The Opportunity
As Director of Architecture, you will lead the Winchester studio and work closely with directors across other disciplines to deliver creative, commercially robust solutions for a broad client base. With a growing pipeline of work — particularly within senior living and student accommodation — you will have genuine influence over the direction of the practice and the evolution of the team.
You will balance design leadership with business development, mentoring, and operational oversight, ensuring that the studio continues to perform, grow, and align with the company’s wider strategic vision.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, develop, and mentor the architectural team in Winchester, setting high standards for design quality and innovation
* Oversee project delivery across all RIBA stages, ensuring both design excellence and technical robustness
* Play a key role in business development and client engagement, growing the team’s presence in senior living, student accommodation, and wider residential sectors
* Work collaboratively with internal project management, cost consultancy, and building surveying teams to deliver integrated, multidisciplinary solutions
* Manage team resourcing, performance, and recruitment to support sustainable long-term growth
* Ensure compliance with practice standards, planning policy, building regulations, and wider statutory requirements
* Represent the business in client meetings, design reviews, presentations, and networking events
* Promote a culture of creativity, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
About You
We are seeking an inspiring architectural leader who combines design flair with commercial awareness and strong people leadership skills.
Essential Skills and Experience
* Chartered Architect (ARB / RIBA) with substantial post-qualification experience
* Proven experience leading architectural teams and managing multiple projects concurrently
* Strong portfolio within senior living, student accommodation, and/or mixed-use residential schemes
* Excellent design and technical capability, with a pragmatic and delivery-focused approach
* Commercially astute, with experience of managing budgets, bids, and long-term client relationships
* Demonstrable ability to inspire, mentor, and develop team members at different career stages
* Confident communicator and presenter with strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills
* Collaborative working style with genuine enthusiasm for design, leadership, and team development
Why Apply?
This is an excellent leadership opportunity for an Architect who wants to make a visible and lasting impact. You will have:
* Autonomy to shape and grow a dedicated architectural team
* The backing of a respected, multi-disciplinary consultancy with a strong national platform
* The opportunity to deliver high-quality, meaningful projects that positively contribute to the built environment
* A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, with clear scope for long-term progression
For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact:
E: caroline@kingsleyrecruitment.co.uk
M: 07768 381 831
C: https://calendly.com/caroline-200/15min