London, UK
Director of design and development
at UNITY Studio
UNITY Studio is hiring a director of design and development to join its team in London.
We are seeking a director of design and development to provide strategic and hands-on leadership for the planning, design, and delivery of major residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects across our expanding portfolio in prime central London and Europe.
The successful candidate will combine commercial pragmatism with architectural vision, guiding our in-house design team and shaping both the architectural and portfolio direction of a fast-growing, design-led property company.
Key responsibilities
Strategic development leadership:
- provide strategic direction across all developments, ensuring alignment with company’s long-term growth vision, investment strategy and architectural style
- lead the end-to-end delivery of major residential, commercial, and mixed-use development projects across property portfolio
- manage all stages of project delivery – including feasibility, financial modelling, business case preparation, procurement, construction, and partner/consultant coordination
- assist with site acquisition and oversee technical studies, planning, design, and delivery, ensuring projects meet financial and program targets
- prepare and present comprehensive project updates, business plans, and financial appraisals to the business.
Architectural and design excellence:
- oversee creative and design direction, ensuring architectural integrity, context sensitivity, and innovation
- ensure design excellence for design quality and technical robustness
- conduct design reviews, planning submissions, and stakeholder engagement
- ensure compliance with UK planning, environmental, and building regulations, including Building Safety Act, Part L, and BREEAM requirements or European equivalents
Financial and commercial management:
- take full accountability for project budgets, from initial appraisal and viability assessments through to final delivery
- lead financial modelling and contractor negotiations / consultant appointments to ensure optimal project performance and return on investment
- oversee project teams (internal and external) and monitor costs, risks, and timelines
- support the CEO and finance teams in assessing investment feasibility and long-term asset value
Leadership and stakeholder engagement:
- lead, mentor and develop the UNITY Studio, fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity and delivery excellence
- build and maintain senior-level relationships with investors, developers, consultants, contractors and local authorities
- report regularly to the CEO and Director of Real Estate on project progress, risks and performance
- uphold Unity’s brand reputation for integrity, transparency, and quality in all external engagements
Candidate profile
Qualifications and experience:
- ten plus years’ in senior property development; architectural background preferred
- a strong academic pedigree is essential
- MRICS and/or ARB/RIBA Chartered Architect (or equivalent)
- proven track record delivering complex, multi-million-pound residential, commercial, or mixed-use projects, ideally including heritage and prime London schemes
- strong understanding of technical, legal, and financial frameworks for large-scale developments
- experienced in managing cross-disciplinary teams and external partners
- knowledge of UK planning policy, building regulations, and sustainability standards
- excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills
- established professional network supporting opportunities in the UK and Europe