Job Description

Location:

London

Employment Type:

Full-time (Director-level Service Agreement)

Reporting to:

Managing Director, Conquest UK

About CQ Studios

CQ Studios is the in-house architectural and BIM design studio of the Conquest Group, an international Real Estate business delivering high-density urban regeneration projects across London, Sydney, and beyond. As part of Conquest's expansion in the UK, CQ Studios is being established to lead the design and technical delivery of major London developments, working closely with the Group's development and construction divisions. The business combines a London-based leadership and design hub with a technical production team in South Africa, providing a highly efficient, integrated, and scalable design model.

The Role

We are seeking a Lead Architect / Director to establish and lead CQ Studios Limited in London. This is a pivotal role for a senior architect with deep knowledge of large-scale urban development and a desire to build something exceptional.The successful candidate will act as Principal Architect for CQ Studios, responsible for design leadership, quality control, and ensuring the practice can carry Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance. You will be both hands-on and strategic, managing complex projects, mentoring a growing design team, and pioneering the use of AI and Protech within the design process.This is not a typical architectural role, it's an entrepreneurial leadership position within a fast-growing property group, with the backing and ambition to replicate Conquest's Sydney success story in London.

Key Responsibilities

Lead design direction and technical delivery for major London mixed-use and residential projects (typically 100m-1B GDV). Oversee RIBA Stages 2-5 and ensure compliance with London planning policy, Building Regulations, and fire safety standards. Manage and mentor a hybrid team structure, London-based design leadership and South Africa-based BIM/drafting team. Act as the Principal Architect responsible for ensuring CQ Studios' PI and ARB compliance. Work collaboratively with Conquest's Development and Construction teams to align design intent with commercial and buildability objectives. Champion innovation through AI, automation, and proptech integration within design workflows and studio operations. Represent CQ Studios in client, consultant, and planning meetings. Establish studio standards, QA/QC processes, and BIM management systems. Support the future recruitment, growth, and scaling of CQ Studios across the UK.

About You

ARB-registered Architect with a minimum of 10 years post-qualification experience. Proven record delivering large-scale London residential or mixed-use schemes through all RIBA stages. Strong technical understanding of the UK regulatory environment, particularly London Building Regulations and Part B fire safety. Expert knowledge of Revit and BIM coordination. Capable of taking professional responsibility under CQ Studios' PI cover. Entrepreneurial mindset: driven, accountable, and able to thrive in a fast-paced growth environment. Passionate about proptech, AI, and digital transformation in architecture. Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the confidence to lead client and consultant interfaces. London-based and committed to building a full-time studio presence.

Package

Base:

150,000 per annum + Bonuses

Performance Bonus:

Up to 50% based on agreed delivery and performance milestones

Engagement:

Director-level service agreement with full authority to act as Principal Architect

Additional benefits:

Discretionary private health cover, travel allowance, and performance-linked review structure

Why Join CQ Studios

This is a unique opportunity to lead the creation of a new architectural practice within a fast-growing property group. You'll shape the design identity, build the team, and pioneer how technology and AI redefine the architectural process. CQ Studios will sit at the forefront of Conquest's London expansion, combining creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial drive to deliver some of the city's most ambitious developments.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 150,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person