Accredited degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related field; or equivalent experience.
Preferred licensure or certification in the chosen field.
Over 15 years of experience, including a leadership role with a proven record in project and resource management.
Extensive experience in the practice area relevant to the studio's focus.
Preferred sustainable design accreditation.
Familiarity with design software and logistics management.
Responsibilities
Oversees and enhances the project process and documentation within the studio.
Facilitates strategic planning and communication with studio leaders.
Partners with leadership to align with firm and practice goals.
Guides project teams through all design phases from inception to delivery.
Acts as the primary client liaison, fostering strong relationships.
Manages team staffing and ensures efficient studio operations.
Provides technical resources and problem-solving support for the design team.
Benefits
Comprehensive health insurance packages.
Retirement savings plans with employer matching.
Professional development and training opportunities.
Flexible work schedules and remote work options.
Collaborative and supportive work environment.
Full Job Description
Overview:
Responsible for overall management of the respective studio and the work of multiple project teams focused on the design, development and delivery of outstanding solutions for a practice area or building type. Executes the practice strategy in the studio(s). The Studio Practice Leader often leads multiple projects with multiple clients concurrently. The role focuses on growing leadership skills related to relationship-building, collaboration and interpersonal skills while working on great projects for exceptional clients.
Responsibilities:
Oversees projects assigned to respective studio by focusing on the project process, service/delivery, work environment and project documentation
Collaborates in strategic planning and facilitates communication for specific practice with other leaders, such as vetting studio marketing strategy and allocating needed resources
Partners with studio and office leadership to further the strategic goals of the firm, sector and office
Collaborates during the initial marketing stages through completion of construction, including programming client needs, conceptual and schematic design, design development and delivery
Collaborates with leaders such as Project Manager and Studio Design Leader to lead the team through all phases by guiding, advising and mentoring other designers on project work, developing design direction and leading critiques
Acts as a primary interface with clients for respective studio, building and strengthening connections through a comprehensive understanding of their mission, goals, policies, needs and progress
Manages client expectations, team communication and consultant coordination for respective studio in collaboration with project team leadership
Monitors staffing, utilization and growth management across the studio, including recommending adjustments where necessary
Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of the studio relating to all staff, business and financial operations
Serves as a technical resource for the studio, assisting in the resolution of complex problems, and helping them grow in their roles
Reviews conceptual development and, in collaboration with Studio Design Leader, provides leadership, inspiration and motivation to the design team to ensure that the highest quality design documentation is produced and client satisfaction is achieved
Partners with Office Director as a liaison between the firm leadership and staff, communicating firm and regional initiatives and priorities
Emphasizes and incorporates HKS strategic priorities, such as Design Measures into client solutions
Operates with "ONE Firm" mindset, minimizes the sector and operational variables within the office in collaboration with Regional Practice Director
Integrates HKS services, expertise and innovation in all projects, while actively seeking opportunities to incorporate HKS best practices, sustainable design solutions, subject
matter expertise and resources strategically and efficiently for the client, user and community
Exercises skills of persuasion and negotiation on critical issues
Qualifications:
Accredited professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, related degree for respective field, or relevant years in education or experience
Licensure or certification in chosen field preferred
Typically 15+ years of experience, including experience in a leadership role with demonstrated success in both project work and talent/resource development
Significant experience in the practice area of the studio
Sustainable design accreditation preferred
Familiarity in the capability and benefits of design-related software preferred
Familiarity in the functionality of Vision
Experience in MS Office Suite, including Microsoft Project and Microsoft Teams preferred
Proficiency in logistics management including connecting people and resources to the right place at the right time
Successful track record in directing and providing leadership for design teams from business development presentations through developing strategy and design concepts
Successful track record in success building, nurturing and fostering new client relationships
Excellent presentation skills
Strong leadership, organization, communication and relationship management skills
Strong organizational skills and the ability to work on multiple projects at the same time
Ability to work closely with design leaders to promote an inter-disciplinary design approach and philosophy, and to facilitate its advancement across the firm
Ability to manage team with diplomatic and collaborative leadership style which puts value on relationships and collaboration, both internal and external
Ability to communicate in a clear, concise and professional manner both verbally and in writing
Ability to problem solve and apply innovative solutions
Ability to collaborate and encourage collaboration in a team environment
Ability to effectively meet deadlines at expected quality
Travel will be required.
If you currently work for HKS, please submit your application via the Internal Careers Portal.
HKS is an EEO/AA Employer: M/F/Disabled/Veteran
About HKS
HKS is an architecture and construction firm based in Dallas, Texas. The company was founded in 1939 and has grown to become one of the largest architecture firms in the world, with offices in the United States, Asia, and the Middle East. HKS provides a wide range of architectural and construction services, including design, planning, and project management. The company has a reputation for innovative design and sustainable building practices, and has won numerous awards for its work. HKS is privately owned and operated.
