Studio Practice Leader

Studio Practice Leader - Mission Critical HKS, Inc. Overview Responsible for overall management of the studio and multiple project teams focused on delivering outstanding solutions for a specific practice area or building type. Executes the practice strategy across studio(s) and leads multiple concurrent projects with diverse clients, emphasizing relationship‐building, collaboration, and interpersonal skills to achieve exceptional client outcomes. Responsibilities Oversee projects within the studio, focusing on process, service delivery, work environment, and documentation. Collaborate in strategic planning and facilitate communication within the practice, including studio marketing strategy and resource allocation. Partner with studio and office leadership to advance the firm's strategic goals. Lead the project team from initial marketing through construction, guiding and mentoring designers on design direction and critiques. Serve as the primary client interface, understanding client mission, goals, policies, and needs to strengthen relationships. Manage client expectations, team communication, and consultant coordination in collaboration with project team leadership. Monitor staffing, utilization, and growth across the studio, recommending adjustments as needed. Evaluate studio efficiency and effectiveness related to staff, business, and financial operations. Provide technical expertise, resolve complex problems, and support professional growth of team members. Review conceptual development and collaborate with the Studio Design Leader to ensure high‐quality design documentation and client satisfaction. Act as a liaison between firm leadership and staff, communicating firm initiatives and priorities. Emphasize HKS strategic priorities such as Design Measures and sustainable design solutions. Operate with an "ONE Firm" mindset, minimizing operational silos and collaborating with the Regional Practice Director. Integrate HKS services, expertise, and innovation into projects while identifying opportunities to apply best practices and sustainable design. Negotiate and persuade on critical issues across the studio. Qualifications Accredited professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related field; or equivalent years of education and experience. Licensure or certification in the chosen field is preferred. 15+ years of experience, including a proven leadership role in project work and talent/resource development. Significant experience in the practice area of the studio. Preferred: Sustainable design accreditation and familiarity with design‐related software. Experience with Vision and MS Office Suite, including Microsoft Project and Microsoft Teams. Proficiency in logistics management, connecting people and resources efficiently. Track record of leading design teams from business development through strategy and concept development. Track record of building and nurturing client relationships. Excellent presentation, leadership, organizational, communication, and relationship management skills. Strong ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Capability to foster an interdisciplinary design approach across the firm. Diplomatic and collaborative leadership style valuing relationships internally and externally. Clear, concise professional communication skills, written and verbal. Strong problem‐solving and innovative solution skills. Ability to meet deadlines while maintaining expected quality. Travel required. If you currently work for HKS, please submit your application via the Internal Careers Portal. #J-18808-Ljbffr