Associate Architect

Associate Architect

Lead a Brand-New Cambridge Office

£50,000–£60,000 + Benefits + Flexible Working

Location: Cambridge

A rare chance to open and lead your own office.

Conrad Consulting is recruiting an ambitious Associate Architect to spearhead the launch of a brand-new Cambridge studio for a fast-growing, multi-office architectural practice. This is a genuinely rare opportunity: step into a senior leadership role, build a team from the ground up, and shape the future of an entire regional office — without the pressure of business development targets.

About the Practice

With established offices across the UK and a strong, secured pipeline of work, this entrepreneurial practice is now expanding into East Anglia. Renowned for high-quality residential architecture — from bespoke one-off homes to large-scale multi-unit developments — the practice also delivers across the commercial sector, including offices, retail and community facilities.

The Role

As Associate Architect, you'll take ownership of the new Cambridge office, leading project delivery through all RIBA Stages to completion, managing client relationships, and mentoring a growing team. This is a technical and people-leadership role — work-winning isn't part of the remit, so you can focus on what you do best: design excellence, project delivery and team development.

• Lead and grow the Cambridge office as it establishes itself in the region
• Manage a varied portfolio of residential and commercial projects across the UK
• Oversee projects through all RIBA stages, from concept to completion
• Build, mentor and develop a high-performing architectural team
• Take full ownership of client relationships and project delivery
• Enjoy genuine, fast-tracked progression as the office scales

About You

• UK-recognised Architecture qualifications with fully qualified Architect status
• ARB registered; RIBA Chartership desirable
• 8+ years' post-qualification experience
• Strong residential sector background, ideally with volume housebuilders or residential developers
• Proven track record leading and managing project teams
• Confident running projects through all RIBA stages
• Excellent knowledge of UK Building Regulations, planning and construction processes
• Strong leadership, communication and mentoring skills

Why Apply?

• Be the driving force behind a brand-new office launch
• Join an ambitious, expanding practice with secured work already in place
• Lead without sales targets — pure focus on delivery and team growth
• Work across a diverse UK-wide residential and commercial portfolio
• Clear, accelerated route to further progression
• Flexible working and a genuinely collaborative culture

Package

• £50,000–£60,000 (negotiable, dependent on experience)
• Private healthcare (post-probation)
• Discretionary bonus scheme
• Flexible working arrangements
• Clear progression pathway within a growing practice

Interested in leading the next chapter of this practice's growth? Apply now to find out more.

Hit apply with your up-to-date CV. For a confidential chat before you commit, reach out directly to Joey Waller at Conrad Consulting - (phone number removed).