Studio Manager

An accomplished Studio Manager with previous line management experience is required to join an architecture practice in Kensal Rise (Westbourne Park, NW10). The focus of the role is to report directly into CEO and to line manage 13-14 people. Salary is up to £50k.

The architecture practice’s portfolio of built work spans the UK, Europe and Africa and the Practice Manager will lead the key functions of the studio, driving everything from the recruitment process to staff reviews and ensuring the health and wellbeing of the team as well as drive the operations, systems, policies, and procedures in the business.

This is a full-time role, based on 5 days in the office (NO hybrid working). Studio hours are 9am-6pm Essential skill set: Office and people management, administration, HR and recruitment, ISO 9000.

Essential previous experience: The successful candidate will have at least 4 years+ of experience working as a Practice/Studio Manager preferably in a design or architecture practice as well as line management.

Studio Manager duties:

1.) General Office:

• Maintaining and updating Office Policies, ensure all studio policies and handbooks are kept up to date and are in line with industry best practice.
• Managing all IT, software and telecoms across the business and working closely with the external IT consultant.
• Managing Office budget and expenditure with the Finance Manager.
• Managing all elements of the studio maintenance, including the utilities, cleaning, insurance, and security.
• Maintain and manage the health and safety aspects of the studio.
• Managing and developing the quality management procedures in line with the requirements of ISO; updating template documents; organise internal and external audits.

2.) Administration:

• Managing the office diary and any travel bookings with the external travel consultant.
• Managing and distributing incoming communication.
• Chairing Associate meetings and recording minutes & follow ups.

3.) Human Resources:

• Assisting senior management with studio recruitment.
• Staff contracts, holiday and sickness records, onboarding & offboarding.
• Coordinating staff reviews and appraisal processes.
• Ensuring timesheet management within the studio.
• Good understanding of employment law and HR practice including acquisition, optimisation, and retention of talent.
• Ensuring the health and wellbeing of the team, first point of contact for any concerns they may have.
• Making sure the studio team is engaged, motivated, and inspired. Manage team social events and knowledge-sharing forums.