Associate Vice President - Design

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Associate Vice President (AVP) to join our San Francisco studio and play a key leadership role in shaping the design direction, studio culture, and business growth of the practice. This role combines design leadership, team management, and strategic development, ensuring the delivery of innovative, high-quality architectural projects while expanding the studio's market presence.

The AVP will collaborate closely with firm leadership and multidisciplinary teams to guide design excellence, mentor staff, strengthen client relationships, and drive new business opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

Design Leadership

• Lead the creative vision and design direction for projects across multiple sectors and scales.
• Collaborate with senior staff members and Principals in charge based on project needs.
• Guide project teams from concept through construction, ensuring design quality and innovation.
• Conduct design reviews, provide critical feedback, and ensure alignment with the firm's design standards and goals.
• Champion sustainable and forward-thinking design strategies.
• Represent the studio in design presentations, competitions, and client meetings.

Team Leadership & Studio Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop multidisciplinary design teams, fostering a collaborative studio culture.
• Oversee staffing strategies, team organization, and resource allocation across projects.
• Support professional development, coaching, and performance management of staff.
• Promote knowledge sharing, innovation, and continuous improvement within the studio.

Project & Client Leadership

• Serve as a design advisor or project principal on key commissions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, and collaborators.
• Ensure projects are delivered successfully in terms of design quality, schedule, and budget.
• Lead presentations and workshops with clients, public agencies, and stakeholders.

Business Development & Growth

• Identify new project opportunities and expand relationships with existing clients.
• Support proposal development, interviews, and marketing initiatives.
• Contribute to strategic planning and market positioning for the San Francisco studio.
• Collaborate with firm leadership on revenue growth and studio expansion.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture plus 12-15+years of related experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education

Experience

• 12-15+ years of professional architectural experience.
• Proven experience leading design teams and managing complex projects.
• Experience in client engagement, presentations, and business development.

Licensure

• Registered Architect preferred.

Skills

• Strong design portfolio demonstrating design leadership.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Expertise in design processes, project delivery, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Proficiency in tools such as Revit, BIM workflows, and visualization platforms.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary with annual performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Employer-matched 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid time off (PTO), holidays, and flexible hybrid work model.
• 9/80 work schedule with alternating 3-day weekends.
• Continuing education and professional development support.
• Collaborative studio culture with firm-wide impact potential.