Higher Education Architect / Studio Practice Leader - AE7

AE7 is seeking a Senior Architect to lead, develop, manage and grow our Higher Education Market Sector. Candidates should have focused a majority of their career in the higher education realm and have a variety of experience with higher education projects, universities and clients. As the Studio Practice Leader, you will play a crucial role in overseeing the design and execution of projects within the higher education sector. This position requires a combination of architectural expertise, leadership skills, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within higher education environments. Candidates should be able to lead business development efforts, secure project work and manage staffing to achieve project scopes and deadlines.

Overall Goals of the Position:

• Establish the firm as a domestic leader in the higher education Market Sector
• Help to facilitate and secure higher education related projects throughout the firm
• Develop a thriving and stable higher education studio
  
  

General Responsibilities:

• Establish, cultivate and maintain strong relationships with clients in the higher education sector, understanding their needs, objectives, and expectations. Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and managing expectations throughout the project lifecycle
• Identify opportunities for business development and growth within the higher education sector. Collaborate with the firm’s leadership team to develop strategic initiatives, pursue new clients, and secure projects that align with the firm’s expertise and objectives
• To acknowledge, document, respond and organize project proposal documents and presentations for upcoming RFP’s and client Interviews
• Work with AE7’s marketing / graphics department to prepare relevant marketing materials, maintain up-to-date project data for AE7’s database and website
• To Attend RFP’s query sessions and client Interviews, as the introductory face / higher education market sector leader of AE7
• To formulate and prepare project proposals which would define AE7’s role / scope of work and fee structures
• Reconnect with clients on an annual / biannual / as needed basis. Participate and assist with content marketing
• Recruit, interview and make recommendations on qualified candidates to join AE7 to accomplish the scope of work noted
• Mentor and coach team members, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. Provide guidance on design principles, technical expertise, and industry best practices, empowering team members to reach their full potential
  
  

Business Development Responsibilities:

• Establish business development approach for pursuing higher education related opportunities
• Coordinate with AE7 staff on making calls and reaching out to existing clients and new clients
• Reach out to past clients and let them know where you are and make introductions
• Develop a team for higher education pursuits with existing staffing or new hires
• Cultivate existing staff into higher education teams with the knowledge needed to execute projects
• Work with staff to develop expertise and make presentations at appropriate trade organizations, and other appropriate venues
• Participate in speaking engagements
  
  

Qualities & Skills Required:

Essential:

• Lead Design and Programming efforts for higher education-related projects
• Licensed Architect with a minimum of 20 years’ experience in architecture / architecture interiors with a main focus of your career in the higher education industry
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture from an accredited institution
• Proven track record of successfully leading and managing architectural projects from concept to completion, including experience with project budgeting, scheduling, and resource management
• Strong design portfolio showcasing innovative solutions and creativity in the higher education sector
• In-depth knowledge of building codes, regulations, and industry standards related to higher education facilities
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate team members, clients, and stakeholders
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines efficiently
  
  

Desirable:

• Assist other AE7 international offices to secure higher education related work
• LEED / Well Building / Passive House certification
• Member of higher education related organizations
  
  

Qualified candidates should electronically submit a resume and portfolio to hr.northamerica@ae7.com with the job title of “Higher Education Studio Practice Leader” in the Subject line. All candidate submissions should be in PDF format (under 10MB) with applicant’s name in the filename. To learn more about AE7 please visit www.ae7.com