London, UK
Studio manager
Structure Workshop is looking for a new studio manager to join its London-based practice.
Job description
To ensure the smooth running of the practice for all non-design aspects, managing day-to-day operations with a focus on professional and efficient support for the team and clients. Key responsibilities include front-of-house, facilities management and financial administration.
The role is pivotal to the ongoing success of the practice and requires an energetic and proactive approach.
This is preferably a full-time position but could be part-time for the right candidate.
Practice description
Structure Workshop is an engineering design practice that provides creative structural solutions to architects and artists. We are a friendly and informal team and our work is varied and rewarding.
The practice was established in 2004 and currently has 10 employees. The business has recently expanded its’ premises and is going through an exciting phase; growing its client base and taking on larger scale projects.
Job responsibilities
Office management
- manage reception duties including client and supplier liaison and post
- maintain excellent office standards, ensuring a tidy environment at all times
- manage office supplies and equipment
- coordinate facilities – IT support, utilities, cleaning services
- organise and audit the company’s systems, databases, and procedures
- manage diaries throughout the practice
Team support
- PA support for the managing director
- ensure good HR practice through process ownership of employee contracts, recruitment, policies and staff handbook, employee performance reviews
- book cost-effective travel and accommodation for the team
- embrace and foster company culture and employee welfare
Project management
- coordinate the team timesheet and project management processes to drive efficient and profitable work across the practice, generating reports as needed
- support the senior team with improvements in project and resourcing processes
- set up and maintain the filing structure for projects, clients and technical data
Financial management
- work closely with the managing director, book keeper and accountant to ensure financial control and cost-effective decision-making
- maintain up-to-date entries into Quick Books Online for income and expenses
- manage the end-to-end invoice process, chasing debtors for prompt payment
- ensure the timely payment of bills and staff expenses
Business development
- lead marketing and PR activities to improve the practice profile
- be proactive in representing the practice for industry events
- provide excellent client communication, ensuring efficient turnaround of enquiries and fee proposals
- organise client data and press information, updating the company website with news and projects
Candidate qualifications and experience
- prior office management experience, ideally within a creative or design environment
- proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Excel, and Photoshop
- Quick Books Online/equivalent experience, with a good understanding of business finance
- excellent communication and organisational skills with attention to detail and a desire to drive continuous improvement in the running of the business
- discrete, personable and professional