Senior Associate Role Summary
A globally recognised, design-led studio working across luxury interior architecture and hospitality projects is seeking a Senior Associate to join its senior leadership group. This is a pivotal role within the studio, offering significant strategic, creative and commercial responsibility, and the opportunity to work in close partnership with the CEO and Directors to help shape the future direction of the business.
As a Senior Associate, you will act as a senior ambassador for the studio, taking ownership of key client relationships, overseeing complex multi-project programmes and playing a central role in maintaining design excellence, commercial performance and team development.
The Role
The Senior Associate will assume overall responsibility and accountability for the delivery of major projects and portfolios, ensuring design quality, technical integrity, commercial performance and client satisfaction are consistently achieved. You will contribute at both project and studio level, supporting strategic decision-making and leading by example across the business.
Key Responsibilities
Acting as a senior representative and ambassador for the studio across clients, partners and the wider industry
Taking ownership of major client relationships and acting as a trusted senior point of contact
Leading the creative direction and design strategy across multiple projects and programmes
Working closely with the CEO and Directors on strategic, operational and commercial planning
Overseeing project resourcing, programming, fee management and delivery performance
Providing senior leadership, mentoring and guidance to Associates and project teams
Ensuring design output is technically robust, commercially sound and aligned with client objectives
Reviewing and approving design documentation, presentations and contractual submissions
Supporting recruitment, performance development and long-term talent planning
Promoting a culture of excellence, accountability and continued professional development
Undertaking UK and international travel for client meetings, site visits and studio-related activity
Skills & Experience Required
Extensive senior-level experience within interior architecture or interior design
Proven experience leading large-scale or complex project portfolios
Strong creative vision combined with excellent technical and commercial awareness
Demonstrable leadership experience managing senior designers and multidisciplinary teams
Ability to build and maintain long-term client relationships at senior level
Strong understanding of FF&E, finishes, materials and commercial supply chains
Excellent communication, presentation and negotiation skills
Strategic thinker with a calm, solutions-focused and decisive leadership style
High attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities
Perks & Benefits
Flexible working environment including one day per week working from home, with periods of remote working where appropriate
Strong emphasis on wellbeing and sustainable working practices
A social and collaborative studio culture with regular team events
Ongoing professional development, leadership growth and long-term career progression opportunities
