Senior Associate – Design Leader
Multi-Disciplined Architectural Design Practise Working Across Multiple Sectors
Begin 2026 In a New Leadership Role With New Opportunities
About the Role
We are seeking an exceptional Senior Design Lead working with and reporting to the Directors of the practise. This is a pivotal role for a design-focused architect who thrives at the intersection of strategic thinking, creative excellence, and sophisticated client engagement.
As a design lead, you will shape the early stages of our most significant projects—from initial client conversations through master planning and feasibility studies. You will be the trusted design authority who translates complex client aspirations, regulatory frameworks, and market opportunities into compelling, contemporary architectural solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Design Leadership
* Lead conceptual design and master planning processes alongside the Directors, being responsible for 'all things design' across a variety of projects in the office.
* Develop innovative design solutions that respond to contemporary demographic shifts and lifestyle expectations in varying sectors.
* Champion design excellence across all project stages, establishing creative direction and maintaining design integrity
* Conduct feasibility studies that balance aspirational design with commercial viability, site constraints, and regulatory requirements
* Present and defend design concepts to clients, stakeholders, and approval authorities with clarity and conviction
Client Relationship Management
* Serve as the primary design advisor and relationship holder for key clients
* Articulate complex design strategies in accessible, persuasive language that resonates with diverse stakeholders, including being able to position and 'sell' your design solution.
* Build deep understanding of client business models, operational requirements, and strategic objectives
* Navigate sophisticated client relationships with senior executives, developers, and end-user business operators in the sectors we serve
* Identify opportunities within client portfolios and contribute to business development initiatives
Strategic & Sector Expertise
* Maintain cutting-edge knowledge of design, regardless of the typology, and be able to bring your capability to a range of commercial typologies.
* Contribute thought leadership on design innovation in diversified living environments
* Advise clients on emerging design paradigms—from person-centred care environments to intergenerational communities
* Integrate market research, demographic analysis, and operator insights into design solutions
* Collaborate with internal teams to ensure design intent transitions successfully through project phases
Practice Development
* Mentor and develop emerging design talent within the studio
* Contribute to the firm's design culture, methodologies, and quality standards
* Participate in firm-wide initiatives, design reviews, and knowledge sharing
* Represent the practice at industry events, conferences, and within professional networks
Selection Criteria
Essential
* Registered architect with minimum 8-10 years of post-registration experience
* Proven track record leading design including master planning and feasibility projects from inception through to approval
* Demonstrated design excellence with a portfolio showcasing contemporary architectural thinking
* Strong conceptual design abilities with sophisticated understanding of spatial planning, urban design principles, and environmental response
* Experience managing senior-level client relationships and presenting to executive stakeholders
* Commercial acumen with understanding of project feasibility, development economics, and value engineering
* Exceptional design and leadership communication skills—verbal, visual, and written
* A strong and clear sense of 'self-belief' will be an essential trait to ensure a confident approach in client interactions.
* Proven and demonstrable people leadership skills.
Highly Desirable
* Proficiency in contemporary design tools and visualization techniques
· Published work or recognition in industry awards
* Evidence in displaying a mature understanding of universal and evidence-based design in mixed and community living typologies
About You
You are a design architect at heart—energized by the creative process and committed to design that makes a meaningful difference in people's lives. You understand that exceptional design considering the end users experience in diversified living and requires both architectural ambition and deep empathy for people.
You communicate design ideas with confidence and sophistication, whether sketching concepts with clients, presenting to boards, or collaborating with project teams. You build trust through your design expertise and your ability to listen, interpret, and respond to complex client needs.
You see the early stages of a project—the conversations, the possibilities, the strategic design decisions—as where real value is created. While you appreciate the importance of documentation and delivery, your passion and expertise lie in shaping visions, solving complex challenges, and establishing the design frameworks that guide projects to successful outcomes.
What We Offer
* The opportunity to establish yourself in this role, will be a foundation for positioning yourself to become a director.
* Leadership role in a specialized practice with a strong portfolio and industry reputation
* Direct access to significant projects and influential clients
* Collaborative, human centred design-focused studio culture
* Competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience
* Professional development and career progression opportunities