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
…