What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Director position at UNS?
With over 450 employees in seven global offices – from Amsterdam to Austin, Hong Kong to Dubai – UNS is more than an architecture firm. We’re a collective of thinkers, problem solvers, and creative minds working across disciplines to shape a better world. Whether it’s cities or airports, bridges or brands, we design solutions that address real societal challenges.
The Associate Director role at UNS, is a senior-level position that combines leadership in project and business management with a strong focus on design excellence and studio operations. This role typically includes responsibilities in areas like client relations, project delivery, business development, and team leadership.
As an Associate Director at UNS, you will be an integral part of our global leadership team, working alongside other associate directors and reporting directly to the studio director. Each associate director has a unique specialty, and we are seeking someone with a strong commercial and team lead focus.
Key aspects include:
Talent and Team Development: This role has a crucial leadership aspect, focusing on team morale, professional growth, and skill-building initiatives to strengthen the capabilities of team members. It includes implementing best practices and fostering a collaborative culture across different teams and project partners.
Client Relations and Business Development: A significant part of this role involves client interactions, from building strong relationships to contributing to business growth. This often includes collaboration with marketing teams to increase the visibility of UNS’s projects, proposal development, and networking to secure new clients.
Financial and Operational Management: The position also entails financial oversight, including budget monitoring and ensuring profitability for the studio. The Associate Director will work closely with the managing director to manage billing, fee negotiations, and legal agreements to ensure smooth project execution.
Project and Design Leadership: The Associate Director oversees multiple high-profile architectural projects, guiding them from inception through to completion. They are responsible for maintaining design quality, overseeing technical and planning aspects, and ensuring that client expectations are met or exceeded. Additionally, they work with diverse teams of architects, interior designers, and BIM specialists to drive creative processes.
Strategic Vision and Adaptability: This role demands a high level of adaptability, as UNS often emphasizes a flexible approach to projects, especially in the fast-paced, high-stakes environments in which the firm operates.
A Master’s Degree in Architecture.
Over 15 years of architectural experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role, in high-demand, international environments.
Proven success in leading and delivering large-scale projects with a focus on design excellence and innovation.
Exceptional communication and presentation skills, capable of influencing stakeholders at all levels.
The ability to manage competing priorities, navigate ambiguity, and drive results in a fast-paced setting.
A strategic mindset with strong business acumen and the ability to identify emerging opportunities in the design market.
A collaborative approach to leadership, fostering teamwork, mentorship, and knowledge sharing.
Expertise Design and Construction Stages and a broad understanding of other disciplines influencing the design.
Key competencies:
Flexibility: Adaptable approach to projects and frequent travel.
Results Orientation: Drive for excellence in a high-demand environment.
Perseverance: Ability to 'sell the dream' of our designs to clients.
Stakeholder Management: Skilled in managing diverse relationships to keep projects on track.
Listening: Attentive to team members' input and feedback.
Delegating: Effective task distribution and project management.
Motivating Others: Strong leadership that inspires and empowers your team.
Why UNS
Joining UNS means becoming part of a vibrant and ambitious team in the heart of Amsterdam, one of the world's most beautiful cities. Here’s what we offer:
Opportunities to work on high-profile, challenging global projects.
A creative, professional, and academic working environment.
A young, international team comprising over 30 nationalities.
A culture of design through discovery and continuous learning.
Significant creative freedom and a clear growth path.
A dedicated learning budget to support your professional development.
Legendary Summer and Winter Events.
30 annual holidays plus a holiday allowance on top of your salary.
At UNS, we believe in nurturing talent and providing the platform for our team to excel. If you're ready to make a difference and drive impactful design projects, we want to hear from you!
Apply Today
Elevate your career with UNS. Apply now and join a team that's reshaping the future of architecture and design.