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John Robertson Architects is hiring a senior architect to join its team in London.

John Robertson Architects (JRA) is seeking a talented and motivated senior architect to join our practice. The successful candidate will play a key role in leading projects, providing technical expertise, and ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality architectural work.

The role of a senior architect is a multifaceted position that combines leadership, technical proficiency, and project management within the field of architecture.

Reporting to directors and/or project directors, a senior architect typically works under a project director on assigned projects. However, they may occasionally be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a project independently, with oversight from a director or project director.

Senior architects are highly experienced professionals, usually RIBA and/or ARB registered, who have previously held a project architect role. They are expected to manage projects on a daily basis with minimal support from senior staff. To reach this level, an architect should have gained substantial experience across multiple projects, covering all RIBA Work Stages.

A strong understanding of project administration is essential, including client relationship management, additional fee requests and change control, compliance with building regulations and legislation (including CDM), specification writing, staff management and resourcing, document control, chairing meetings, and adherence to the practice’s Quality Management System and CAD standards. Senior architects must also be fully aware of and able to work within the requirements of project appointments and legal documentation.

As key figures within the practice, senior architects are expected to lead by example, demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and a proactive approach to their work.

The key responsibilities of the role include:

Leadership and management

• project leadership: senior architects should provide vision, direction, and guidance to project teams, helping to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with client requirements
• team management: senior architects are expected to oversee and mentor junior architects, designers and support staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment
• client management: senior architects should interact directly with clients and stakeholders, understanding their needs, objectives and expectations. They are expected to develop strong relationships with clients, maintain open communication channels, and address any concerns or issues that may arise during the project lifecycle
• communication: senior architects are expected to have excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas and concepts clearly and effectively
• collaboration: senior architects are expected to take a collaborative approach to working with internal teams, external consultants, contractors and clients. They should aim to facilitate productive discussions, resolve conflicts, and build consensus among diverse stakeholders

Architectural design and planning

• design expertise: senior architects should possess a deep understanding of architectural principles, aesthetics, and spatial relationships. They should be capable of developing innovative design concepts, solutions, and strategies that address client requirements, functional needs and site constraints
• technical proficiency: senior architects are expected to be proficient in architectural drafting and presentation tools. They should be capable of producing detailed architectural drawings, reports and presentations that communicate design intent effectively
• sustainability and building performance: senior architects are expected to integrate sustainable design principles, energy-efficient strategies, and green building technologies into their projects. They should prioritise environmental stewardship, occupant comfort, and long-term building performance considerations

Regulatory compliance and project coordination:

• building codes and regulations: senior architects are expected to ensure compliance with the Building Regulations and regulatory requirements throughout the design and construction process. They should stay abreast of changes in building codes and standards, interpreting and applying them appropriately to project designs
• consultant coordination: it is required that senior architects coordinate with various consultants, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors involved in the project. They are expected to review and integrate engineering systems, structural requirements, and other technical specifications into the overall design
• construction administration: senior architects are expected to provide oversight during the construction phase, conducting site visits, inspections, and reviews to monitor progress, quality, and adherence to design intent. They should address construction issues, resolve conflicts, and facilitate effective communication among project stakeholders

Professional development and industry engagement:

• continuous learning: senior architects should ensure they actively engage in professional development activities, including attending conferences, workshops, and seminars. They are expected to stay informed about emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in architecture, design, and construction
• industry leadership: senior architects are expected to contribute to the advancement of the profession through participation in professional organisations, committees and advocacy initiatives. They should share knowledge, expertise, and insights with colleagues, peers, and the broader community

In summary, the role of a senior architect is multifaceted, requiring a combination of leadership abilities, technical proficiency, design expertise, and project management skills. Senior architects play a pivotal role in shaping the built environment, delivering innovative architectural solutions, and fostering collaboration and excellence within the architectural profession.

Expectations of all JRA staff:

• to act and to represent JRA professionally in all circumstances
• to behave respectfully towards colleagues and JRA’s client and partners
• to comply with JRA’s company policies
• to understand and work to JRA’s quality policy, procedures and objectives

How to apply

If you are passionate about architecture and eager to contribute to innovative projects, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter detailing your experience and why you are a perfect fit for this role via the apply for job button below.

www.jra.co.uk