Practice Leader-Operations - Seattle, WA

HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical challenges of our time. We are dedicated to improving people's lives, serving our clients and healing the planet. Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluen ...

Job description

HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical challenges of our time. We are dedicated to improving people's lives, serving our clients and healing the planet. Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science, blending the power of creative expression with a clear sense of purpose.

HOK's Seattle office is seeking a Practice Leader with an operations focus to help elevate and expand our studio. This role will oversee staffing, financial performance, and project planning in partnership with our project managers. Key responsibilities include developing talent, strengthening project delivery, and ensuring strong team chargeability. We are looking for a strategic leader who can drive operational excellence while supporting our efforts to grow the practice, and cultivate a high-performing, collaborative culture rooted in design excellence.

Responsibilities
Leadership

• In collaboration with Practice Principals, develops and executes strategic practice planning and marketing strategies.
• Assists Design Principal and Marketing Principal in the organization, budget and delivery of design competitions.
• Acts as mentor to project managers and other practice staff by providing technical expertise and leadership.
• Acts as mentor by coaching and motivating design teams and individuals; fostering an environment of mutual respect and trust among members of the group as it grows and develops.
• Takes personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.
• May act as Project Manager of assigned projects.
• Fosters a culture of external and internal client service.

Business Development

• Participates in developing annual business plan for the practice.
• Identifies new business opportunities while developing current client relationships. Listens for and seeks out new projects which may exist or are being formulated.
• Participate in selected marketing and business development opportunities.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with consultants, contractors and jurisdictional/approval agencies.
• Assist in development of fee proposals for marketing proposals.
• Participates in local or state professional associations, maintains active membership, and attends conferences valued by clients as appropriate.

Staff Development

• Prepares and delivers design staff evaluations; responsible for performance development, compensation decision-making and allocation processes of department.
• Supports diversity, HOKU programs and develops continuing education opportunities (e.g. site visits, lectures, road trips) to expose design staff to influences which will stimulate design creativity and innovation.
• Participates in interviews and recruiting of professional staff.
• Encourages staff exploration and innovation to achieve project design excellence and continual improvement.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in architecture or equivalent in education or experience required. Master's degree preferred.
• 15 years' experience in architectural practice with prior management experience in all phases of projects through post-occupancy.
• Licensed Architect with current registration in your region required, if licensure is offered in your region.
• NCARB registration preferred.
• LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.

Other

• Travel may be required.
• Overtime may be required.
• The job duties and requirements that this document describes may be altered or supplemented at any time at the sole discretion of HOK.

Compensation is based on experience, qualifications, education and location. The reasonably expected salary range for this position is $170,000 to $200,000. Other compensation may include a discretionary bonus.

Many of our roles require the use of specific software. Please refer to the Required and Preferred Software & Skills for details.

HOK invests in its people and communities, supporting both personal and professional growth through every stage of life. At HOK you'll have a hybrid work environment, 10 paid holidays (including 2 floating holidays) and a minimum of 4 weeks of paid time off with a cash out option. HOK offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, free mental wellness resources, life and AD&D coverage and short and long-term disability benefits. HOK supports your growing family by offering 4 weeks of paid parental leave and fertility coverage. HOK helps to fund your future financial needs with matching contributions to our 401(K) plan which includes a well-rounded investment menu as well as free guidance on retirement planning.

Wherever you are in your career, HOK provides opportunities to learn, develop and utilize your skills. Continued learning is promoted through financial support and study prep for licensure exams, CEU credit opportunities, mentorship programs, and paid professional memberships. To learn more about designing your career with HOK, explore our current job openings.

HOK is an EOE, including disability/vets.