Job Title: Director of Architecture
Location: Based in Taunton, working across the South West
Reports To: Managing Director / Board of Directors
Type: Full-Time, Permanent
About the Role
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Architecture. This pivotal role combines strategic leadership, business development, and project delivery oversight. The successful candidate will jointly lead a multidisciplinary team of architects and technicians, ensuring high-quality outcomes and fostering a collaborative studio culture.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management
- Provide strategic leadership and inspiration to a team of architects and architectural technicians across multiple projects, including monitoring of workload and resources,
- Foster a high-performing, positive and supportive studio culture aligned with the company’s vision and core values of inclusivity and professionalism,
- Lead resource planning, team development, and performance management in collaboration with other senior leaders.
- Mentor junior team members and encourage professional growth and technical excellence. Including organisation of their ‘off the job’ training hours, assisting with gathering evidence of KSBs, and acting as liaison between practice and college.
Sector Development & Work Winning
- Drive the growth of the Education and Healthcare sectors within the practice by identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, keeping up to date at all times,
- Establish, nurture, and maintain professional relationships with clients, consultants, and key stakeholders to expand market presence,
- Lead and contribute to high-quality bids, proposals, and professional presentations,
- Monitor market trends and funding opportunities in education and healthcare to inform sector strategy, adapt and engage with all stakeholders maintaining GDPR.
Project Oversight & Delivery
- Oversee design time, cost, quality, resource and project delivery across all RIBA stages, ensuring technical compliance and absolute client satisfaction,
- Provide design direction and technical guidance where needed, particularly in complex or high-profile projects,
- Support contract administration and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards,
- Promote sustainable and innovative design practices across all projects.
Requirements
Essential
- Chartered Architect (ARB and RIBA registered) with minimum 5 years post-qualification experience in professional practice,
- Proven leadership experience in architecture with a focus on education and/or healthcare sectors,
- Track record of successfully winning and delivering projects in these sectors,
- Strong people management and communication skills,
- Comprehensive understanding of UK planning, building regulations, and procurement processes including technical knowledge of Healthcare HBNs and HTMs, Education DfE bulletins and DfE independent School Standards,
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure,
- Proven experience using ArchiCAD and Twin Motion graphic software,
- Proven experience using JCT suite of contracts, NBS CAWS classification system, CDM2015 Regulations including Principal Designer under BSA22 with experience of Duty Holder regime,
Desirable
- Experience with BIM Level 2 or higher environments.
- Existing client network within the education and healthcare markets.
- Strong commercial acumen and understanding of fee structures and profitability.
What We Offer
- Collaborative, friendly, supportive and pro-active leadership environment,
- Opportunity to work across multiple sectors,
- Competitive salary and benefits package including professional membership,
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
To apply, send your CV to: info@inspired-partnership.com