Recently Qualified Architect | Design Management Pathway

If you are beginning to feel that your strongest contribution is not just producing architecture, but helping shape how it is coordinated and delivered, this could be a very strong next move...

There comes a point where some architects realise their value sits beyond the drawing package.

Not outside architecture.

Beyond the traditional role.

You may be recently qualified, or close to that point, but already find yourself naturally drawn to the bigger picture: how projects are structured, how teams coordinate, how decisions are made, how risk is managed, and how design intent is protected as complexity builds.

You might be the person who brings order to consultant comments, deliverables, meeting actions or programme pressure.

The one who understands that good architecture is not only about the idea, but how the idea is carried through the process.

This opportunity is for architects who are starting to recognise that.

Grõ Careers has been appointed exclusively by a globally respected firm to support the growth of its in-house Project & Design Management Group in London.

The team is now looking for recently qualified architects (up to 4 years post-qualification), or experienced Part II-level candidates close to qualification, who want to make a deliberate move into Design Management.

This is a step away from design.

It is a move into the part of the process where design intelligence, organisation, communication and leadership come together.

You will work across significant cultural, civic, education, public-sector, mixed-use and international projects, helping project teams create the structure needed for ambitious design to be delivered properly.

That could include:

• supporting project set-up and delivery strategy
• coordinating consultants, internal teams and project information
• tracking actions, deliverables, responsibilities and programme milestones
• helping manage risk, change and stakeholder communication
• creating clarity around scope, workflow and decision-making
• supporting senior Design Managers on complex, design-led projects

This will suit someone who is organised, thoughtful, calm under pressure and naturally interested in how projects are led.

You may not currently hold a Design Manager title.

That is fine.

What matters is that you have started to develop the mindset: the ability to see beyond a package, understand how teams interact, and bring clarity where projects could easily become fragmented.

You will likely have:

• RIBA Part 3 / ARB accreditation, or strong UK Part II experience
• experience within a respected architectural practice or complex project environment
• grounding across RIBA Stages 1-4, ideally with some exposure beyond early design
• an interest in programmes, deliverables, coordination, risk and stakeholder management
• strong communication skills and confidence working with wider project teams
• full rights to live and work in the UK without sponsorship

For the right person, this is a rare career platform.

A chance to move into Design Management within a major international firm, while keeping close to architecture and complex project delivery.

Practical details

• Location: London
• Employer: Globally recognised firm
• Role type: Full-time, 6-month fixed-term contract
• Future potential: Scope to become permanent
• Level: Recently Qualified Architect / Aspiring Design Manager
• Salary: Circa £44k-48k+ depending on experience

Please send your CV to Grõ Careers for a discreet conversation.

Shortlisted applicants will receive tailored guidance on how to position their experience for a Design Management pathway.