Job Description
An award-winning architecture and design practice, recognised for design excellence and deep expertise within the higher education sector (universities), is seeking a talented and ambitious Associate Architect.
This is a pivotal leadership role within a growing, close-knit higher education team. The client requires a registered architect who is passionate about high-quality design for learning, confident in delivery, and motivated to help shape the future direction of the higher education sector.
The role offers significant creative freedom with no prescribed house style.
A core focus of the position is on learning environments: how design directly influences and supports better learning outcomes for students, while also creating more effective, inspiring environments for educators. Acting as the primary point of contact for clients, you will lead presentations and workshops, working closely with end users to develop meaningful, engaging spaces.
You will play a key role across project delivery, business growth, and thought leadership. This role suits a confident leader who can manage teams, win new work, and actively expand the studio’s presence within the education sector. The client is particularly interested in deep thinkers - individuals who genuinely understand end users and how design can best support learning and collaboration.
Working closely with the studio directors, you’ll have the autonomy to lead projects from concept through to completion, championing design quality, innovation, and technical excellence at every stage. This is a unique opportunity to progress your career within a supportive, collaborative environment that truly values individual contribution and professional development.
Key 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.