UNITY TEAM LTD

Senior Project Architect / Design & Development Manager

London permanent full-time Hybrid
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Job 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 Regulations and construction processes Experience managing consultants, appointments, and fee structures Confidence leading projects on-site and during construction Desirable Experience working within or alongside real estate developers Understanding of commercial and residential development viability Strong BIM coordination experience Familiarity with JCT and/or Design & Build procurement routes Personal Attributes Strong leadership and decision‑making skills Commercially aware and risk‑focused Design and Detail‑oriented with the ability to see the wider project picture Confident communicator across design, construction, and commercial teams Able to balance design quality with programme and cost constraints Please submit your most up-to-date CV along with your project portfolio to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Senior Project Architect / Design & Development Manager role at UNITY TEAM LTD involve?

The Senior Project Architect / Design & Development Manager position at UNITY TEAM LTD in London is a permanent full-time role. 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.

What skills are required for Senior Project Architect / Design & Development Manager at UNITY TEAM LTD?

Key skills for this role include: Rails, RDS.

What is the salary for Senior Project Architect / Design & Development Manager at UNITY TEAM LTD?

The salary for this position is not publicly listed. You can negotiate during the interview process. Check Glassdoor or Levels.fyi for estimates.

Is the Senior Project Architect / Design & Development Manager position at UNITY TEAM LTD remote or on-site?

This position is Hybrid. Expect a combination of office and remote work, typically based in London.

How do I apply for Senior Project Architect / Design & Development Manager at UNITY TEAM LTD?

You can apply for this position directly through the employer's careers page. Click the 'Apply Now' button on this page to be redirected to the original listing. Make sure your resume is ATS-optimized. Use SpotChange's free ATS test to check.

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About This Role

Senior Project Architect / Design & Development Manager at UNITY TEAM LTD is a permanent full-time design position in London. Key skills include Rails, RDS. Education: Master's Degree preferred. Experience: 5+ years.

This role is classified as hybrid and is suitable for senior-level professionals. Ghost Score 20/100 (Probably Active) indicates this listing is probably active with recent employer engagement.

To apply, visit the official application page through the Apply Now button above. SpotChange Jobs provides AI-powered career tools including resume optimization, ATS testing, interview preparation, and salary negotiation assistance.