Assistant Design Manager

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Architectural Protagonist: Guiding Architects to Alternative Pathways

Are you an Architectural Assistant (RIBA Part II), Architectural Designer, or a Recently Qualified Architect ready for something different? Do you find yourself intrigued by the strategic, operational side of architecture and eager to develop skills beyond traditional design work?

We’re offering an exclusive in-house opportunity within a prominent architecture studio’s specialist internal design management team - an ideal role if you want to pivot your career, expand your influence on major design projects, and unlock new pathways in design management.

This role not only provides improved work-life balance compared to traditional practice roles but also opens doors to alternative career routes in design and project management with employers in real estate, development, and beyond.

About the Role

This Assistant Design Manager role is your gateway from hands-on design into strategic project and design management. You’ll become an integral part of the internal Design Management team, separate from the design and production teams, assisting in coordinating iconic architectural schemes and supporting project delivery from early concept to completion.

Your day-to-day tasks will include (but not be limited to):

1. Assisting senior Design Managers with project setup, programming, project tracking, and reporting to ensure design quality, efficiency, and consistency.
2. Collaborating with consultants, supporting contract reviews, and helping to maintain clear communication channels across all project stakeholders.
3. Contributing to strategic documentation, including project schedules, deliverable trackers, and change control management.
4. Coordinating design team meetings and workshops, managing agendas and documenting key actions.
5. Developing your understanding of financial and contractual aspects of design projects.

Who We’re Looking For

1. Architectural professionals with 1+ year experience post-RIBA Part II qualification, recently qualified Architects, or equivalent, gained within a UK-based, design-focused practice.
2. A keen interest in transitioning from traditional design into design management, with a willingness to learn new skills and processes.
3. Proven organisational ability, attention to detail, and strong communication skills.
4. Familiarity with design programmes/schedules/route maps, consultant coordination, and documentation standards.
5. Proficiency in MS Office and the Adobe Creative Suite, and a willingness to learn additional management software (MS Project etc.).

Why Make the Move?

1. Career Acceleration: This role offers a clear pathway from architectural design into strategic design management, positioning you for future senior roles and leadership.
2. Better Work-Life Balance: Being part of a dedicated Design Management team, separate from the traditional production environment, offers improved work-life balance and a sustainable working rhythm.
3. Tailored Mentorship: Receive structured training and support directly from experienced Design Managers, within a supportive environment whilst leading headline projects.
4. Strategic Exposure: Work on significant UK and international projects across a range of sectors (cultural, hospitality, aviation, education, and more), gaining insights into client engagement, financial oversight, and high-level project coordination.
5. Professional Growth: Build a robust portfolio showcasing strategic skills highly valued by both architectural and design management employers worldwide.

What's On Offer:

1. Opportunities for international travel on global projects (optional).
2. Competitive salary and above-market benefits package, commensurate with experience.
3. Structured professional development, training, and progression.
4. Direct involvement with flagship architectural projects.
5. A collaborative, dynamic environment within an industry-leading studio.

Opportunities to transition into design management in-house are extremely rare. Don’t miss this chance to evolve your career into strategic and influential realms of architecture.

If you're considering moving into design and project management, Grõ Careers is uniquely placed to support you. We're the only specialist recruiter exclusively dedicated to guiding architectural professionals through this pivotal career shift. Our unmatched expertise will help you understand exactly how to leverage your existing skills to stand out and secure the right role.

Ready to take the next step? Send your CV to Reece at Grõ Careers today.

Due to high volumes of interest, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Project Management and Design

Industries

Architecture and Planning and Design Services