Senior Project Architect / Design & Development Manager
unity-group-1
| Company | unity-group-1 |
| Category | Design |
| Location | London |
| Remote | On-site (inferred) |
| Employment | Not stated |
| Level | Senior |
| Salary | Not stated by the employer |
| Posted | 30 Apr 2026 |
| Last verified | 3 Aug 2026 |
| Source | Employer ATS (personio) |
Description
We are seeking an experienced Senior / Project Architect to join us in‑house architecture studio within a real estate development company. This is a hybrid senior role , combining hands‑on architectural delivery with development‑side design management, consultant oversight, and project governance . The role requires ownership of projects from early concept through delivery and handover , acting as both Lead Architect and Design / Development Manager . You will be responsible for preparing and coordinating design information, managing consultants, protecting design quality, controlling technical compliance, and acting as a key interface between development, construction, consultants, and external stakeholders. Key Responsibilities 1. Architectural Leadership & Design Delivery Act as Lead Architect for multiple projects across residential, mixed‑use, or commercial developments Lead concept, planning, and technical design stages through to construction and completion Prepare, review, and sign off on architectural drawings, specifications, reports, and schedules Ensure design intent, quality, and commercial objectives are maintained throughout the project lifecycle Develop and maintain design standards, details, and technical guidelines aligned with company objectives 2. Design Management & Consultant Coordination Act as Design Manager from a developer’s perspective , overseeing internal and external designers Appoint, manage, and coordinate consultants (architecture, structures, MEP, fire, acoustic, façade, landscape, planning, specialists) Manage information flow , design programmes, deliverables, and approvals Lead design reviews , value engineering exercises, and risk mitigation workshops Ensure design coordination and clash‑free documentation before construction issues 3. Information Management & Technical Control Own the design information process , including staging, gateway reviews, and audit trails Review and approve technical drawings, specifications, schedules, and outputs Ensure compliance with: Planning conditions Building Regulations Fire strategy and statutory requirements Employer’s Requirements and Development Brief Control document status, revisions, and issue procedures 4. Development & Commercial Oversight Work closely with Development, Commercial, and Construction teams to align design with budget, programme, and risk Review and manage consultant appointments, scopes of service, and fee proposals Review payment applications , milestone completions, and variation requests Support procurement by reviewing tender queries, contractor proposals, and technical submissions 5. Site Ownership & Construction Stage Involvement Maintain design ownership during construction , acting as the design authority Attend site regularly to review progress, quality, and compliance Review and respond to: RFIs and technical queries Shop drawings and samples Design changes and site instructions Ensure the built work reflects the approved design and specifications 6. Client, Stakeholder & Team Management Act as a primary client‑side design lead , representing the company internally and externally Manage communication with: Internal development and construction teams Local authorities and statutory bodies External consultants and contractors Mentor and manage junior architects and assistants within the studio Support recruitment, workload planning, and capability development within the studio Desired Skills & Experience Essential ARB registered Architect (or equivalent international qualification) Typically, 5–10+ years post‑qualification experience Proven experience delivering projects from concept to completion Strong background in design management within a developer‑led, or client‑side environment preferred Excellent technical knowledge of UK Building