Architecture firm located in the heart of Metro DC are in search of a Principal or Associate Principal to join our studio to be partnered and responsible for operations, staff performance, financial profitability, staff development and growth of his/her group, consistent with organization's polices and approved business plan. Oversee Designers and Project Managers and assure technical and financial performance of all projects to meet Quality & Cost Assurance standards. Oversee the group’s organizational staff development and administer policies and programs.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Demonstrates leadership skills with ability and willingness to face challenges, solve problems, and motivate others, while maintaining effective relationships with customers by meeting or exceeding their requirements and expectations.
Develop and implement the studio’s business plan.
Develop strong ties with clients (as Client Sponsors) and professional organizations.
Increase competitive position.
Review and approve all group bids and proposals for thoroughness and accuracy.
Negotiate bid price, work scope and proposed terms (consistent with the firm’s policy)
Recruit, train and supervise all of group personnel. Select, train and develop understudies for all key positions.
Administer career development plans, quarterly Intern Development Program and annual evaluations for each direct report.
Administer Group personnel, including hire, termination, performance and salary evaluations, promotions, demotions, achievement recognition, etc., in conformance with company policies).
Conduct Programming, Feasibility Studies
Assist in the design, production and construction administration so that accurate and coordinated project information can be consistently maintained (especially on stamped drawings prepared by others)
Produce top quality designs that meet Clients’ expectations without impacting profit.
Respond to Construction Administration questions that require resolution by Architect, Engineer and Contractor.
Write contracts and Proposal Agreements with the Project Managers to develop appropriate fees, achievable schedules, and accurate contractual terms.
As licensed architect, it is expected that you will stamp and seal your drawings. You will obtain, with the firm's assistance, additional licenses as necessary.
Develop all work scope, prepare budget, provide Quality Assurance and approve all work scope and budget for projects, subcontracts and all related addendums assigned to the firm’s Associate Principals and Project Managers.
When appropriate, review, assist in development and approval of all Project Management Plans of the assigned group.
Approve all group’s billings, variances and recommend write-off and other credits to Chief Financial Officer.
Mentor studio management in all areas of management and executive: technical, administrative, financial and marketing management and executive. Function as “Senior Resource” to the firm's staff-at-large.
Negotiate the firm's contracts and budgets.
Develop new business to replace completed projects in conformance to the approved business plan. Develop new clients and maintaining assigned clients.
Maintain the group’s target labor utilization and coordinate with other Principals, Associate Principals and Project Managers.
Attain “Key Performance Indicators”, as negotiated for the studio and self.
Support collection efforts, as required.
Must have a thorough understanding of state/local codes and accessibility requirements meeting state and federal standards.
Strong knowledge of building materials, detailing, construction techniques, related engineering principles, and building codes.
QUALITIES
Ability to make effective and persuasive presentations on complex topics to employees, clients, top management and/or public groups.
Good judgment and reasoning ability, enabling problem solving with the constant shifting of priorities and daily tasks.
Self-motivated personality to take on projects and assignments without the need for the micromanagement of a supervisor.
Experience in negotiation and dispute resolution.
Ability to manage time, deadline oriented, and takes initiative (self-starter)
Proficient in spoken/written English.
Keen observation and detail-oriented skills.
Decision-making and documents checking abilities.
Must possess intellect, integrity, and influencing skills required to build strong professional relationships at all organization levels.
Strong organizational skills and disciplined accuracy are required.
The proven ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment.
Track record in successful single-family projects.
Strong aesthetic sense and interest in the arts.
Knowledge of professional ethics, as applied to architecture.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
This position will require up to 50% local travel.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position will be responsible for the supervision of Designers, and Project Managers.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
Education: Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS), in Architecture, or related field
Architectural License: Required license in all states where projects are located.
Experience: 15+ year’s exp. in Residential
Software Proficiency: AutoCAD 2014 (desirable), REVIT a plus, Word, Excel, Microsoft Project, Photoshop and InDesign
Building Type: Residential, Land Planning,
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Requires excellent good oral and written communication skills and ability to effectively communicate.
Must be able to write reports and business correspondence in clear concise business English. Must be able to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers, and the general public in a professional, collegial manner.
