Studio Practice Leader

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 documentationCollaborates in strategic planning and facilitates communication for specific practice with other leaders, such as vetting studio marketing strategy and allocating needed resourcesPartners with studio and office leadership to further the strategic goals of the firm, sector and officeCollaborates during the initial marketing stages through completion of construction, including programming client needs, conceptual and schematic design, design development and deliveryCollaborates 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 critiquesActs as a primary interface with clients for respective studio, building and strengthening connections through a comprehensive understanding of their mission, goals, policies, needs and progressManages client expectations, team communication and consultant coordination for respective studio in collaboration with project team leadershipMonitors staffing, utilization and growth management across the studio, including recommending adjustments where necessaryMonitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of the studio relating to all staff, business and financial operationsServes as a technical resource for the studio, assisting in the resolution of complex problems, and helping them grow in their rolesReviews 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 achievedPartners with Office Director as a liaison between the firm leadership and staff, communicating firm and regional initiatives and prioritiesEmphasizes and incorporates HKS strategic priorities, such as Design Measures into client solutionsOperates with “ONE Firm” mindset, minimizes the sector and operational variables within the office in collaboration with Regional Practice DirectorIntegrates HKS services, expertise and innovation in all projects, while actively seeking opportunities to incorporate HKS best practices, sustainable design solutions, subjectmatter expertise and resources strategically and efficiently for the client, user and communityExercises skills of persuasion and negotiation on critical issuesQualifications:Accredited professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, related degree for respective field, or relevant years in education or experienceLicensure or certification in chosen field preferredTypically 15+ years of experience, including experience in a leadership role with demonstrated success in both project work and talent/resource developmentSignificant experience in the practice area of the studioSustainable design accreditation preferredFamiliarity in the capability and benefits of design-related software preferredFamiliarity in the functionality of VisionExperience in MS Office Suite, including Microsoft Project and Microsoft Teams preferredProficiency in logistics management including connecting people and resources to the right place at the right timeSuccessful track record in directing and providing leadership for design teams from business development presentations through developing strategy and design conceptsSuccessful track record in success building, nurturing and fostering new client relationshipsExcellent presentation skillsStrong leadership, organization, communication and relationship management skillsStrong organizational skills and the ability to work on multiple projects at the same timeAbility to work closely with design leaders to promote an inter-disciplinary design approach and philosophy, and to facilitate its advancement across the firmAbility to manage team with diplomatic and collaborative leadership style which puts value on relationships and collaboration, both internal and externalAbility to communicate in a clear, concise and professional manner both verbally and in writingAbility to problem solve and apply innovative solutionsAbility to collaborate and encourage collaboration in a team environmentAbility to effectively meet deadlines at expected qualityTravel will be required.