Associate Director – Laboratory Planning & Science Design

Overview

As Associate Director you lead strategic laboratory planning and science facility design, guiding projects from concept to delivery. You act as a sector expert for global clients, shaping the Science & Technology offering and driving innovative, future-ready environments. You will lead cross-disciplinary teams and own key client relationships to win work and deliver high-value projects. This role blends design leadership with advisory and business-growth responsibilities. Join a mission-driven firm delivering complex, impactful infrastructure worldwide.

Pay / Benefits

• hybrid work options
• comprehensive compensation and well-being programs
• global, inclusive culture
• access to industry-leading technology and thinking
• transformational work with big impact
• disability confident employer and accommodation support

Responsibilities

• Provide technical, design, and commercial leadership across laboratory and science sector projects
• Lead multidisciplinary teams to deliver complex, high-value projects at scale
• Champion design excellence, innovation, and sustainability in laboratory environments
• Contribute to the strategic growth of the Science & Technology sector
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, guiding laboratory planning, briefing, and design strategy
• Build and maintain strong client relationships and represent the firm as a sector leader
• Lead and contribute to business development and bid activities
• Oversee coordination of technical specialists, equipment planners, and engineering teams
• Mentor and develop emerging talent within the team
• Champion digital design, BIM, and data-driven approaches; lead innovation in low-carbon, sustainable lab design

Key requirements

• ARB registered Architect (or equivalent professional qualification)
• Significant post-qualification experience in laboratory/science sector design
• Proven track record leading complex, multidisciplinary projects
• Strong client-facing experience with ability to influence senior stakeholders
• Experience in laboratory planning, briefing, and design strategy
• Excellent understanding of laboratory standards, workflows, and regulatory environments
• Demonstrated ability in team leadership, mentoring, and project delivery
• Proficiency in Revit, BIM, and digital delivery workflows
• Eligibility to work in the UK

• strong client-facing communication
• mentoring and team development
• collaborative and inclusive leadership
• Revit
• BIM
• digital delivery workflows

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