Company Description
KDH Associates is proud to be working with Planit Consulting in Godalming, Surrey. Planit Consulting is an established multidisciplinary planning and development consultancy providing planning, architecture and development advice across residential, rural, commercial, sport and leisure sectors.
As the business continues to grow, we are seeking an experienced Architectural Consultant to lead and develop Planit’s architectural service, working closely with the planning consultants to deliver high-quality development solutions for clients.
This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious architect who enjoys combining design excellence with client management, commercial awareness and team leadership.
Role Description
You will lead the architectural function within the business, overseeing projects from initial feasibility through planning submission while supporting the continued growth of the architectural team.
The role combines technical expertise, project leadership and business development within a collaborative multidisciplinary consultancy.
As a senior member of the business, you will contribute to strategic growth, mentor junior colleagues and help shape the future direction of our architectural services.
This role is suitable for someone who believes they are at Associate or Associate Director level. More senior/experienced candidates will also be considered.
Key responsibilities
Project delivery
· Lead architectural projects from feasibility through planning approval.
· Undertake measured building and site surveys on smaller projects.
· Prepare concept designs and planning drawings.
· Produce high-quality presentation material, client reports and Design and Access Statements.
· Coordinate drawing work with planning consultants and external specialists.
· Ensure projects are delivered on programme and within budget.
Leadership
· Lead, mentor and develop junior architectural staff.
· Allocate workloads and oversee project quality.
· Maintain high technical and professional standards.
· Participate in leadership meetings.
Client & business development
· Develop strong relationships with clients.
· Prepare fee proposals and project quotations.
· Identify new business opportunities.
· Represent Planit at networking and business development events.
· Support the continued growth of the architectural service.
Experience & qualifications
Essential
· ARB registered or RIBA Chartered Architect.
· Minimum 10 years’ post-qualification experience.
· Degree or postgraduate qualification in Architecture.
· Demonstrable experience leading projects through planning stages.
· Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
· Strong commercial awareness.
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Desirable
· Experience within planning-led consultancy.
· Experience in rural, residential or mixed-use development.
· Previous team leadership or management experience.
Technical skills
Essential
· AutoCAD.
· Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop and InDesign).
· UK Planning System.
· Building Regulations awareness.
· Microsoft Office 365.
Desirable
· GIS experience.
· AI-assisted design and visualisation tools (e.g. ChatGPT).
Personal attributes
We’re looking for someone who:
· Is proactive and commercially minded.
· Enjoys leading and mentoring others.
· Enjoys working in a team.
· Has excellent attention to detail.
· Thrives in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment.
· Is adaptable and solutions focused.
· Can confidently communicate with clients, consultants and local authorities.
· Takes ownership of projects and delivers to high professional standards.
Typical project portfolio
You will work across a diverse range of projects including:
· Householder development proposals
· Individual dwellings and multiple unit / small scale housing schemes
· Agricultural buildings
· Equestrian facilities
· Sport and leisure developments
· Rural diversification projects
· Commercial development
· Masterplanning
Why join Planit?
You’ll have the opportunity to:
· Lead and shape a growing architectural team.
· Work alongside experienced planning professionals.
· Influence business growth and strategy.
· Work on varied and interesting development projects.
· Develop your leadership career within a supportive consultancy.
Additional requirements
· Full UK driving licence.
· Willingness to undertake site visits and client meetings.
· Eligibility to work in the UK.
For more details please contact Kirsty at kirsty@kdhassociates.co.uk
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