JOB TITLE: Industrial Studio Leader

JOB SUMMARY

The Industrial Studio Leader is a senior leadership role responsible for advancing Cooper Carry's Industrial Market presence nationally with a focus on the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic.

This role balances strategic business development, client engagement, and project leadership. The Industrial Studio Leader serves as a client-facing design expert in project pursuit and delivery. The role focuses on building a new design studio at Cooper Carry inclusive of market strategy, revenue growth in the industrial sector, mentorship and development of design talent, and establishing the studio to transition for long-term growth.

ROLE INTENT

Establish and scale Cooper Carry's industrial architectural practice through relationship-driven business development, internal project delivery capacity, and sustained market growth. Industrial Studio Leader will work with CEO and other firm leaders to establish KPI's for aligned performance expectations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Design Leadership & Quality

• Establish and reinforce studio design standards and efficient deliver of deliverables
• Lead concept and development for building and site designs and guide teams on design-related matters through project execution, in active collaboration with entire design team and under leadership of the project Principal.
• Remain engaged throughout all phases of design to ensure continuity, quality, and adherence to design intent
• Set and uphold the standard of design delivered to clients
• Create and communicate clear project design strategies, instruments of service, and design direction
• Conduct quality control reviews of project documentation for completeness, accuracy, and conformance with design intent

Client Engagement & Business Development

• Serve as expert in key client conversations, interviews, and presentations
• Partner with firm leadership to engage prospective clients and lead proposal efforts
• Build and manage a qualified industrial opportunity pipeline
• Strengthen relationships with prospective clients, contractors, and project management firms
• Participate in relevant industry conferences, organizations, and forums to elevate Cooper Carry's brand

Market & Practice Growth

• Develop and execute an industrial business development strategy
• Contribute to expansion into new geographies while reinforcing regional market leadership
• Support growth across the adjacent sectors such as Advanced Industries and Office Workplace
• Coordinate with business development leaders across Charlotte, Atlanta, DC, Denver, and future practice locations
• Provide leadership with insights on market trends, risks, and opportunities

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Mentor and develop architects and designers to build capacity for industrial projects
• Collaborate with other firm leaders

Cross-Functional Leadership & Operations

• Collaborate closely with marketing, finance, and operations to support pursuits and ensure project profitability
• Deliver design excellence efficiently and within project budgets
• Participate in programming, planning, feasibility studies, and early discovery efforts as appropriate
• Communicate firm values, design culture, and strategic goals throughout the studio

QUALIFICATIONS
• 20+ years of experience in architectural design (exceptions may be considered for uniquely qualified candidates)
• Proven track record of leading high-quality, market driven projects
• Strong understanding of architectural design, construction processes, and project delivery
• Demonstrated success in client engagement, marketing, and business development
• Ability to lead distributed teams and collaborate across multiple offices
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and team development skills
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities
• Understanding of financial and budget management concepts
• Professional architectural registration required
• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or equivalent experience

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Directly or indirectly leads and supervises design staff, including mentoring, training, planning, assigning work, evaluating performance, and supporting issue resolution as applicable.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Majority of time spent seated, with ability to move throughout the office and attend site visits with or without accommodation.
Ability to lift materials under 20 pounds, travel for business, and perform light standing, bending, or stooping as required.