Salary: £50k-£60k
Location: West London (Office-based)
Senior Architectural Design Manager Role Summary
An award-winning, design-led studio specialising in high-end residential projects across prime London postcodes is seeking a Senior Architectural Design Manager to join their growing team in West London. With a reputation for delivering exceptional quality through a Design & Build model, the practice offers a dynamic environment where design and construction come together under one roof.
This is a pivotal role offering full exposure to the entire project lifecycle, from client acquisition and concept design through to technical delivery and on-site realisation. The position is ideally suited to an experienced, motivated architect with strong leadership skills, commercial awareness and a passion for delivering beautifully considered residential architecture.
Senior Architectural Design Manager Key Responsibilities
Lead the architectural design team, overseeing output, performance, and development.
Take full design responsibility across all RIBA stages for high-end residential schemes.
Confidently advise clients on design strategies, planning risks and cost implications during site visits.
Oversee all new architectural sales, from initial meetings to fee proposals and securing appointments.
Chair weekly design team and resource meetings to effectively manage workflow and deadlines.
Coordinate across internal departments including interiors, project management and construction.
Maintain the quality and accuracy of drawing packages with regular reviews and feedback.
Lead client presentations and coordinate with external consultants.
Ensure all architectural outputs meet current building regulations and minimise design risk.
Support project leads with construction detailing and technical package reviews.
Take ownership of invoicing and ensure fees are tracked and issued correctly.
Identify design risks and manage them through the appropriate documentation and process.
Liaise with site teams to support the delivery of design intent during the construction phase.
Skills & Experience Required
ARB/RIBA Part III qualified Architect.
Minimum 10 years’ post-qualification experience leading residential projects in the UK.
Strong portfolio of medium-to-large scale, high-end residential work – ideally within conservation areas.
Proven ability to deliver projects across all RIBA stages.
Demonstrable experience managing architectural teams.
Commercially astute, with a strong track record in design-led business development.
Excellent knowledge of UK planning and building regulations.
Strong IT skills – proficiency in AutoCAD, InDesign, and Excel essential.
Outstanding communication and leadership abilities.
Fluent in spoken and written English.
What’s on Offer
Competitive salary, reflective of experience.
20 days annual leave plus bank holidays, 3-day Christmas break, and an additional day per year up to 26 days total.
Flexible working hours (either 8am–5pm or 9am–6pm).
Office-based role in a collaborative, open-plan workspace.
Regular team social events and a positive, supportive studio culture.
Exposure to all aspects of a multi-disciplinary practice – working alongside contractors, project managers, quantity surveyors, and interior designers.
Strong commitment to work-life balance and personal development.
What This Role Offers
Full creative and managerial control across all architectural output.
Opportunity to grow and lead a department that supports the entire business.
Direct engagement with clients, consultants, and site teams.
Platform to bring personality and design flair to some of London’s most prestigious residential projects.
A chance to shape and influence the design process within an established and ambitious studio.