Studio Director – San Francisco
Location: San Francisco, CA
Sector: Architecture | Urban Mixed-Use | Multifamily | Civic & Commercial
Status: Confidential Strategic Leadership Opportunity
About the Firm (Confidential)
Our client is a nationally recognized architecture and planning practice known for transformative urban design, high-performance mixed-use environments, and innovative residential communities.
With over five decades of design leadership and more than 51 million residential units designed worldwide, this firm has earned its reputation as a trusted partner to some of the most visionary developers, investors, and civic institutions in the U.S. and abroad.
Renowned for large-scale, high-impact projects that shape skylines and communities alike, the firm is now focused on re-establishing its San Francisco studio as a cornerstone of West Coast design excellence — and is seeking the right leader to bring that vision to life.
The Opportunity
This is a rare opportunity for a Studio Director to take the reins of an established national brand and lead the resurgence of a key regional practice.
The ideal candidate is an entrepreneurial design leader — someone who combines strong business instincts with design passion and the ability to inspire teams and clients alike.
You’ll have the support of a respected leadership team, national resources, and an award-winning design legacy. What’s needed now is a local visionary who can translate that strength into renewed growth, relevance, and cultural vitality in the Bay Area market.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
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Lead and rebuild the San Francisco studio, fostering a culture of excellence, creativity, and accountability.
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Collaborate closely with firmwide leadership to align the studio’s strategy with national growth objectives.
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Serve as the face of the San Francisco office, building visibility and re-establishing relationships with key clients and developers.
Business Development & Client Engagement
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Drive new business opportunities across multifamily, urban mixed-use, and civic markets throughout Northern California and beyond.
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Cultivate long-term relationships with developers, municipalities, and investment groups.
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Lead major pursuits and project negotiations, leveraging the firm’s national reputation for large-scale, high-density, and high-design environments.
Design & Delivery Oversight
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Guide project teams in delivering exceptional design outcomes that are both aspirational and technically sound.
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Ensure the studio maintains the firm’s high standards for design quality, documentation, and client service.
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Champion design innovation — blending artistry, functionality, and constructability.
Culture & Growth
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Recruit, mentor, and inspire a talented team, establishing a culture of collaboration, performance, and pride.
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Create an environment where creativity thrives and professional growth is celebrated.
Ideal Background
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15+ years of experience in architecture or urban design, including studio or regional leadership experience.
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Strong portfolio in multifamily, mixed-use, or large-scale commercial/residential development.
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Demonstrated success in business development and client relationship management.
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Proven ability to build, lead, and grow a studio — both culturally and financially.
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Licensure and LEED accreditation preferred.
The Culture
This firm believes architecture should elevate communities and improve lives — that great design comes from the intersection of creativity, technical expertise, and collaboration.
The San Francisco studio represents a chance to reignite that vision locally, blending the firm’s legacy of large-scale success with a fresh, contemporary energy.
You’ll be supported by a leadership team that values autonomy, ambition, and authenticity — and empowered to shape a studio that reflects your own leadership style and design philosophy.
What Success Looks Like
Within 12–18 months, the new Studio Director will have rebuilt a vibrant, high-performing team, re-engaged the Bay Area development community, and positioned the San Francisco studio as a key contributor to the firm’s national portfolio.
This is not a maintenance role — it’s a creative and entrepreneurial leadership opportunity to restore and reimagine a legacy of design excellence in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
