Senior Director, Project Planning

Director/ Board Director – Architecture & Business Development

Location: London

Salary: £100,000 - £140,000 + [Bonus / Profit Share / Shareholding]

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

An established and growing architectural practice is seeking an experienced Director with strong business development expertise to support the next phase of strategic growth.

This is a senior leadership position combining business development, operational oversight, strategic planning, and project leadership. Reporting to the Board, the successful candidate will play a key role in driving revenue growth, strengthening client relationships, identifying new market opportunities, and supporting high-quality project delivery across the practice.

The role would suit a commercially focused architectural leader with proven experience winning work, leading teams, and delivering complex projects within the built environment sector specifically; Further Education, Healthcare, Life Science OR Defence.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Growth

• Identify and secure new business opportunities
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and stakeholders
• Support the delivery of company growth strategies and market expansion initiatives
• Lead and oversee tender submissions, bids, and fee proposals
• Contribute to year-on-year revenue growth targets

Leadership & Operations

• Provide strategic leadership across project and technical teams
• Support studio structure, resourcing, and operational performance
• Oversee project delivery, programme management, and profitability
• Monitor financial performance including fees, invoicing, and debt recovery
• Promote collaboration, continual improvement, and staff wellbeing

Technical & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with UK Building Regulations, CDM Regulations, and the Building Safety Act
• Oversee quality assurance and technical delivery across all RIBA stages
• Support best practice in health & safety, governance, and professional standards

Team Development

• Mentor and develop staff across the business
• Help build a strong talent pipeline and positive company culture
• Encourage professional development and knowledge sharing

About You

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven track record of generating and securing new business
• Significant leadership experience within an architectural or built environment practice
• Strong commercial awareness and financial understanding
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and complex projects
• Strong understanding of UK construction regulations, procurement routes, and contracts
• Ability to influence strategic decision-making and drive performance
• Professional, collaborative, and commercially minded approach
• [ARB / RIBA membership]
• Experience in one or more: Defence, Further Education, Life Science or Healthcare
• Existing client network within London and the surrounding areas
• Experience leading bids for major projects/frameworks

Package & Benefits

• Competitive salary: £100,000 - £140,000
• Future MD role for the company
• Shareholding opportunity
• Private healthcare
• Professional membership subscriptions paid

Apply

For a confidential discussion or to apply, please contact:

Mario Fionda at James Gray Recruitment