National studio with Living, Mixed Use and Commercial project portfolio are seeking their next Principal due to succession planning/retirement.
The Principal is responsible for leading and shaping the growth, performance, and strategic direction of the practice, with responsibility for a portfolio of work, clients, and teams.
This senior leadership role involves owning and sustaining a pipeline of work, including securing high profile projects, ensuring profitable delivery, and maintaining exceptional levels of client satisfaction.
The Principal will actively contribute to and influence the strategic direction of the practice, mentor Senior Associates, Associates and emerging leaders, manage resources, and ensure the delivery of
high-quality projects.
The Principal will possess extensive knowledge in their area of expertise and have strong industry connections and established client relationships. In addition to leading business development and client engagement activities, project oversight, and staff development, they will also ensure that the firm’s design philosophy, financial goals, and project standards are consistently met.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Business Development & Practice Growth
ï‚· Lead the identification and pursuit of commercial opportunities, aligned with the firm's strategic objectives.
ï‚· Lead and drive business development and marketing activities, including client presentations, industry events, and professional associations.
ï‚· Take ownership of a client portfolio and/or market sector, driving sustained work pipelines and repeat business opportunities.
Project Planning & Execution
ï‚· Lead and manage multiple architectural projects, ensuring optimal resource allocation and adherence to project timelines.
ï‚· Develop client briefs, present design solutions for client approval, and manage project deliverables, budgets, and schedules.
ï‚· Take accountability for project performance, including delivery, commercial outcomes, and risk management across a portfolio of projects
Team Leadership & Mentorship
ï‚· Provide mentorship and leadership to project teams, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
ï‚· Input into performance management, capability development, and succession planning for Associates, Senior Associates and project teams.
ï‚· Work with Directors to build leadership capability across the practice and support the development of future leaders.
ï‚· Actively contribute to governance, management forums, and decision-making processes that shape practice performance.
Project Oversight & Quality Control
ï‚· Ensure that projects meet the firm's quality standards and adhere to relevant building codes, Australian Standards, and contractual obligations.
ï‚· Monitor project progress, resolve design or compliance issues, and present solutions to the Director for review.
ï‚· Take ownership of project quality procedures, including conducting regular SID and documentation reviews.
Client Management
ï‚· Act as a senior client lead and trusted advisor, building and sustaining long-term strategic client relationships.
ï‚· Ensure client satisfaction by delivering high-quality work within budget and schedule constraints.
F3102_Position Description_Principal
ï‚· Take accountability for commercial performance across client engagements, including fee management and financial outcomes.
Risk Management & Reporting
ï‚· Proactively monitor and report on project risks, ensuring that appropriate mitigation strategies are in place.
ï‚· Provide strategic reporting to Directors on portfolio performance, risks, opportunities, and market insights.
ï‚· Collaborate with the Finance Manager on cost-to-complete reporting and other financial matters.
IDEAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
Minimum 15+ years professional experience in architectural practice, including experience in a senior leadership role.
Registered in NSW and Ideally BDPA certified.Demonstrated success in securing, leading, and delivering complex architectural projects.
Strong commercial acumen with experience managing project profitability, budgets, fee negotiations, and financial performance.
Proven capability in business development, client relationship management, and work winning.
Demonstrated leadership in managing and mentoring multidisciplinary teams.
Experience overseeing multiple projects and teams within a studio or practice environment.
Thorough understanding of the National Construction Code (NCC), Australian Standards, and statutory planning frameworks.
Strong communication, presentation, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
Established industry relationships and professional networks, ideally within the Sydney property and construction sector.
Please contact myself via Celie@redpathpartners.com or 0429107784 for a confidential conversation.
