Principal, Higher Education Practice Lead
Remote | United States
A nationally recognized, employee-owned architecture and design firm is seeking a Principal-level leader to help shape the future of its Higher Education practice.
This is a unique opportunity for an accomplished higher education architect, planner, or practice leader to step into a highly visible national role with the autonomy, resources, and executive support needed to influence strategy, strengthen client relationships, and drive practice growth across the country.
The firm has an established presence in higher education, a strong portfolio of award-winning work, and longstanding relationships with colleges and universities nationwide. They are now looking for a strategic leader who can build upon that foundation and help guide the next chapter of growth.
What You'll Do
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Lead and expand a national Higher Education practice serving colleges, universities, and academic institutions.
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Develop and strengthen relationships with university leadership, facilities teams, and key stakeholders.
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Drive business development efforts, identify new opportunities, and help shape long-term growth strategy.
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Partner with firm leadership to establish practice goals, market positioning, and future direction.
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Provide executive-level oversight on complex campus planning, academic, student life, research, and institutional projects.
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Mentor and develop emerging leaders across the practice.
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Serve as a trusted advisor to clients while representing the firm at industry events, conferences, and professional organizations.
What We're Looking For
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15+ years of experience within architecture, planning, or design leadership.
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Strong background delivering Higher Education projects for colleges and universities.
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Proven success building client relationships and generating new business opportunities.
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Experience leading teams, studios, market sectors, or practice areas.
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Strategic mindset with the ability to balance growth initiatives, client leadership, and project oversight.
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Licensed Architect preferred but not required depending on experience.
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Strong industry network and reputation within the Higher Education market.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Unlike many leadership roles that focus solely on project delivery, this position offers the opportunity to shape an entire market sector. You'll have a direct voice in strategic decisions, influence national growth initiatives, and work alongside executive leadership to expand an already respected Higher Education practice.
The firm operates under a 100% employee-owned (ESOP) structure, creating a true ownership culture where employees directly benefit from the organization's long-term success. Leadership compensation is highly competitive and includes strong base salary, performance incentives, profit-sharing opportunities, and significant long-term wealth-building potential through employee ownership.
This is an ideal opportunity for a Principal, Vice President, Practice Leader, Studio Leader, or senior Higher Education professional looking to increase their influence, expand their leadership footprint, and play a meaningful role in shaping the future of a nationally recognized design practice.
