What are the responsibilities and job description for the Studio Director position at LGE?
Position Overview
The Studio Director (SD) is responsible for ensuring the Texas Architectural Studio consistently delivers high-quality, efficient, and well-coordinated design work. This role balances practice and management, overseeing day-to-day operations of the Texas office and its staff (Project Managers, Project Architects, Job Captains, and support roles) to ensure project delivery dates, quality standards, and client expectations are met.
The SD focuses on design excellence, project execution, and team development, working closely with firm leadership to strengthen integration between design and construction. The position requires a balance of strategic leadership and hands-on oversight, ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest professional standard.
Functions of Position
Project & Design Oversight
- Ensure all design and construction documents meet established quality standards, technical accuracy, and design intent.
- Oversee project schedules, staffing, and coordination to deliver projects on time and within fee.
- Act as lead architect and principal-in-charge for projects within the Texas Architectural Division.
- Support construction integration by coordinating closely with preconstruction and construction teams.
Team Leadership & Development
- Manage direct reports including Director(s), Project Managers, Project Architects, and Job Captains.
- Partner with leadership to implement training, mentorship, and career development pathways.
- Foster a collaborative studio culture that emphasizes accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
- Uphold LGE’s Core Values in all aspects of the role.
Operational Management
- Oversee day-to-day operations, including resource planning, staff assignments, and workflow efficiency.
- Assist in approving project-related expenses and ensure adherence to established budgets.
- Collaborate with leadership on project fee agreements and billing but with primary focus on delivery accuracy and efficiency.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Maintain strong communication with clients throughout design and construction, ensuring a seamless client experience.
- Represent the firm at public hearings, design presentations, and with regulatory agencies.
- Act as a trusted partner to clients, reinforcing long-term relationships through service quality.
Standards & Process Improvement
- Develop and enforce QA/QC processes to minimize errors and rework.
- Standardize design and documentation protocols for efficiency and consistency.
- Develop process for key milestone points to integrate design team with the construction team.
- Implement feedback loops from construction teams to continuously improve studio performance.
Required Attributes
- Licensed Design Professional
- 15 years of progressive architectural leadership
- Commitment to design excellence and technical accuracy.
- Strong leadership skills with ability to mentor and inspire teams.
- Excellent communication skills with clients, staff, consultants, and construction partners.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Microsoft Project, and architectural software.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a positive, team-oriented culture.
Reporting
The Studio Director reports directly to the Vice President of Architecture. Bi-weekly meetings with the Architectural Executive Committee will focus on strategy, project performance, and staff development. Regular collaboration with Project Managers, Construction leadership, and Design Principals is expected to ensure alignment across the firm.
Evaluation
Performance will be evaluated annually by the Architectural Executive Committee, with peer and staff input. Key metrics will include:
- Quality and accuracy of design and contract documents
- On-time, on-budget project delivery
- Staff retention, development, and engagement
- Client satisfaction and repeat business
- Contribution to process improvements and integration with construction
Equal Employment Opportunity
LGE Design Build provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the Team.