Dezeen Jobs

Ralph Appelbaum Associates is seeking a full-time project manager (hybrid) to join its London-based team.

Position profile

A project manager at RAA is a highly motivated problem-solver with a proven history of successfully running projects in museums, exhibitions and other cultural or corporate visitor centre projects from conception to completion, or similar experience in similar architectural or construction industries.

In coordination with senior staff, the position is responsible for helping to ensure that each project is completed on time, on budget, and to the highest standards. The candidate must be self-motivated, have excellent communication skills and be able to balance the artistic integrity of the design with the financial requirements of the project. Further, the candidate must be able to coordinate across several internal studio disciplines (architectural, graphics, lighting, content, research, media etc.) and be adept at steering multiple-faceted client teams to consensus.

The project manager on any project is responsible for the efficient and coordinated development and delivery of the contracted scope of work. Working closely with the creative director on projects, they oversee the day-to-day lines of communication between studio disciplines, subcontractors, and RAA’s clients and their consultant team. They are responsible for tracking and reporting on their project’s profitability, staffing utilisation and on the adherence of contract terms. Additionally, project managers are expected to assist in studio staffing, initiatives, marketing efforts and long-term strategic planning.

This position is hybrid, with a requirement to be in the studio at least three days per week, giving the employee the ability to balance in-person work in the London studio with working remotely, depending on the needs of the studio and individual preferences.

Responsibilities: 

• oversee the management of multiple small projects or one large/complex project, including design/build contracts
• oversee the RAA contract, work plans, staffing plans and project fees
• prepare and manage contracts with sub-consultants and freelancers
• monitor project progress and ensure milestone deliverables conform to contractual requirements
• ensure that the projects are delivered on time and within budget
• flag and resolve schedule or budget issues
• with senior staff, serve as client liaison for reporting project progress
• enter and maintain project data in RAA’s PM software, Deltek Vantagepoint
• prepare work plans and staffing schedules across disciplines
• manage project invoicing with RAA’s accounting team
• monitor project profitability in Deltek Vantagepoint
• identify and report risks or opportunities which could impact margins
• plan and implement mitigation strategies to deliver projects on time and within profit targets
• report project status to director of project management
• coordinate the flow of information between disciplines

Requirements: 

• BA in a design-related field, other advanced degree or equivalent years of experience
• five-plus years’ professional project management experience in architecture, interior design, arts administration or other comparable field
• experience working in or with Physical Design, Visual/Graphic Design and/or Content Disciplines
• experience in technical detailing and production phases
• familiarity with industry products, materials and specifications
• excellent organisational, multi-tasking and time management skills
• proactive approach to task management
• excellent attention to detail
• strong negotiation, management and leadership skills
• proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace
• knowledge of Deltek Vantagepoint and/or SmartSheets a plus
• high degree of familiarity with contract documents and subcontract documents, including typical terms and conditions such as JCT, NEC and FIDIC
• demonstrated on-time and on-budget project delivery
• experience working concurrently with multiple stakeholders
• ability to work efficiently across a wide range of activities and projects
• ability to think strategically and handle difficult client conversations with tact, diplomacy and a solution-focused approach
• outstanding verbal and written communication skills
• eligibility to work in the UK without sponsorship

How to apply

Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications we receive, we cannot personally respond to each applicant. Qualified candidates will be contacted via email regarding our interview process. To apply for this role, please send a cover letter, CV and portfolio via the ‘apply for job’ button below.

Equity, diversity and inclusion

RAA is an equal opportunity practice that is committed to furthering diversity and inclusion in our studio. RAA does not discriminate in employment or access to its programs or activities on the basis of: race, color, creed, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sex, sexual orientation, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, health or genetic information, age, marital status, mental or physical disability, pregnancy, political affiliation, arrest record, past, present or future service in the uniformed services or any other legally protected status. Our policy of non-discrimination applies to all personnel practices, including, but not limited to, recruitment, project assignments, professional development, compensation or any other employment practice. We strongly encourage women, people of color and candidates from other underrepresented communities to apply.

raai.com