London, UK
Practice manager (maternity cover)
at Niall McLaughlin Architects
Niall McLaughlin Architects is seeking a practice manager (maternity cover) to join its team in London.
About us
Niall McLaughlin Architects is a practice that designs high-quality modern architecture. We put a strong emphasis on the inventive use of building materials, the qualities of light and the relationship between the building and its surroundings. We consider these issues to be more important than working in a particular style and hope that each project will be an original interpretation of the client, site, brief and budget.
Role overview
We are looking for a practice manager to join our team on a 12-month, fixed-term maternity cover contract. The role is integral to ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the studio, focusing on HR, finance, operations and promoting a positive office culture.
The practice manager will lead and support the studio in its operations, maintain strong working relationships within the team and uphold a collaborative and creative work environment. You will work closely with the directors and senior team to ensure effective management across HR, finance and operations.
Key responsibilities
HR management:
- responsible for all HR functions, including staff welfare and maintaining a supportive work environment
- oversee the recruitment processes, update the job descriptions and adverts, prepare and issue offers and coordinate the onboarding of new staff
- organise and connect annual and interim performance reviews and salary reviews
- create internal salary bands while benchmarking salaries by industry standards
Financial management:
- solely responsible for all financial processes and financial management including projections, cash flow, billing, invoicing, financial reporting and VAT returns
- monitor budgets, expenditures and profitability through monthly reviews and provide comprehensive financial analysis and reporting to the directors
- oversee project fee agreements, incorporating the information into projections and cashflow as required
- monitor all bank accounts, communicate with the bank manager when required and make/approve all necessary payments
- monitor CMAP regularly to ensure accuracy and profitability, liaising with project leads to maintain information up to date
- liaise with accountants to prepare, review and sign off quarterly management reports, yearly final accounts and prepare the annual R&D claim
Studio operations:
- provide leadership to the studio team – oversee all operational elements of the studio and monitor all day-to-day office functions
- responsible for annual insurance renewals and providing necessary documentation for new business opportunities
- regular communications with the management team concerning all operational and financial matters
- communicate regular and key operational updates to the wider team
- maintain the ISO 9001 system, conduct all internal audits to ensure compliance
Experience, knowledge and skills:
- minimum of three years of experience in a management role within a creative business
- proven experience in all financial elements of business financial management, with a background in HR and operations management
- excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to work effectively with the internal team and external collaborators
- willingness to undertake other tasks and learn new skills to improve office management
- knowledge of using CMAP and XERO software is desirable
Salary is competitive and dependant on skills and experience.
Please apply by submitting your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest via the ‘apply for job’ button below.
Niall McLaughlin Architects is an equal opportunities employer.
This position is only available to applicants based in the United Kingdom