Principal - Education Sector Lead + Business Development

An established and well-regarded architectural practice is seeking a Principal – Education Sector Lead to join its senior leadership team. With a strong reputation across multiple sectors including mixed use, seniors living, commercial and education, the studio has built a diverse and respected portfolio over many years. Education has long been a core strength of the practice, and the business is now looking to appoint a senior leader to reinvigorate and expand this sector, building on an already established client base and reputation. This role will sit alongside an experienced and collaborative leadership group, playing a key part in shaping the future growth and direction of the practice. This is a strategic and outward-facing leadership position, combining sector leadership with project oversight. The role is business development focused (approximately 60% +), requiring a strong network and the ability to cultivate long-term relationships across the education sector. You will work closely with both government and independent education clients, identifying opportunities and guiding projects from early engagement through to delivery.



 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and grow the education sector within the broader practice
• Drive business development and client engagement across the sector
• Work and develop strong relationships with VSBA, independent schools, tertiary institutions and primary education clients
• Build on an existing client base while identifying new opportunities
• Providing strategic leadership across projects and sector teams
• Mentoring and guiding emerging architects and project leaders
• Contribute to practice-wide strategy, operations and growth initiatives
• Represent the studio externally and further strengthen its market presence

Skills & Experience

• Registered Architect (ideally) with 15+yrs professional experience
• Strong track record delivering significant education projects across Victoria
• Demonstrate strong and meaningful relationships within the VSBA, independent and tertiary education sectors as a well-connected architectural leader within the space.
• Proven capability in business development and client leadership
• Confidence leading teams and mentoring emerging talent
• Strategic thinking and an interest in shaping the future direction of a practice
• Bring both commercial acumen and design leadership, with the ability to identify opportunities, win work and guide teams to deliver exceptional outcomes.

Benefits & Culture

• Opportunity to be a figurehead in the education sector within this multi-sector practice
• Succession planning opportunities
• Join a collaborative leadership group and a strong project pipeline
• Offering the chance to influence both the direction of the sector and the broader growth of the studio
• Collaborative and supportive team environment with opportunities to mentor emerging staff
• Flexible working arrangement with one day WFH available

Consultant

Jenna Harrold

Principal - Strategic Appointments

View email address on au.fitly.work

Reference number: 73159
Profession:ArchitectureSenior Architect,
Principal,
Associate Principal

Strategic AppointmentsSenior Architect,
Principal,
Associate Principal

Company: Bespoke Careers
Date posted: 5th Jun, 2026