Associate Director - Masterplanning & Urban Design

Job Description

About the Studio

The studio is an award winning practice with a strong focus on people, from those who commission the work to those who experience the places created. The team balances creative ambition with commercial awareness, working closely with clients to shape destinations that enrich lives, strengthen communities, support nature and contribute long term value. This role offers the chance to help create sustainable and meaningful places that feel rich in culture, energy and connection.

About the Role

The Associate Director will lead and inspire a design team, delivering imaginative, thoughtful and high quality work across a range of projects. They will oversee the creative process from concept through to completion, ensuring projects progress smoothly, remain aligned with design intent and are delivered on time and within budget. Directors will offer guidance when needed, while the Associate Director will operate with a strong level of autonomy.

A key part of the role involves supporting and developing junior colleagues, helping them build confidence and reach their full potential. Alongside project leadership, the Associate Director will also contribute to business development, actively engaging with opportunities across current and emerging markets.

What the Studio is Looking For

• A highly creative designer with a strong portfolio demonstrating high quality work across large scale masterplanning and urban design projects.
• Clear and confident communication skills, able to build trusted relationships with clients and stakeholders while identifying new opportunities for collaboration.
• A commercially aware mindset supported by sound judgement, careful budget management and efficient use of resources.
• An encouraging leader who can guide, mentor and develop junior colleagues, creating an environment that supports collaboration and creativity.
• Strong organisational ability to plan, coordinate and manage the full project process, maintaining involvement throughout.

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery

• Manages multiple projects and teams to consistently achieve design and technical excellence.
• Develops expertise in chosen design areas and works towards becoming a recognised specialist.
• Plans, coordinates and manages the project process from early concept through to completion.
• Leads project meetings and selected client presentations, increasingly acting as a primary point of contact and building relationships that encourage repeat work.

Management and Leadership

• Sets a positive example by supporting a collaborative studio culture where new ideas are welcomed and good practice is shared.
• Guides and trains junior colleagues, offering timely feedback that supports their creative, technical and professional growth.
• Takes the initiative in organising studio or group activities, contributes to brainstorming sessions and manages challenging situations constructively.

Client Relationships and Business Development

• Works with colleagues to strengthen new business activity, helping to build visibility through events, forums, publications and wider communication.
• Assists in preparing fee bids and contributes to fee proposals and fee discussions for new and ongoing projects.

Financial and Budget Control

• Demonstrates a strong understanding of project finance, cost control and fee structures.
• Ensures project targets are achieved through thoughtful planning, effective resource management and clear oversight of budgets.

What the Studio Offers

• Health insurance and life assurance
• Cycle to work and technology scheme
• Monthly studio lunch
• Outreach opportunities
• Thursday evening studio drinks
• A full social calendar
• A comprehensive programme of continued professional development

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who wants to play a leading role in shaping ambitious, people focused places. If this sounds like the right next step, candidates are warmly encouraged to apply today and share their experience.