We are seeking to appoint a Studio Leader to drive the growth of our Melbourne studio, offering a rare and exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future direction of the practice, lead a dynamic team and establish a strong local presence.
The Studio Leader acts as a practice-wide leader and ambassador, supporting Directors in strengthening studio capability, commercial performance and profile. The role combines hands-on project leadership with broader responsibility for people development, client relationships and continuous improvement across the practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to the long-term strategic direction and growth of our Melbourne studio
- Lead multi-disciplinary teams in the delivery of complex projects across sectors
- Facilitate clear communication between Directors and staff
- Share industry knowledge and best practice to strengthen studio capability
- Ensure projects are delivered to program, budget, and quality standards
- Represent the practice at industry events and professional organisations
- Support bid development in collaboration with the marketing and submissions team
- Assist Directors with resourcing, program planning, and project oversight
Qualification & Experience
- Registered Architect, Senior Interior Designer or Technician with 10+ years in a design practice
- Demonstrated ability to lead complex projects and multidisciplinary teams
- Comprehensive knowledge of practice systems, design and technical quality standards and best practices
- Proven capability in project, resource, and financial management within a consultancy environment
- Experience building strong client relationships and contributing to practice growth
- Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Demonstrated people leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, mentor and develop a high-performing team
What S9 offers
- The opportunity to work within a progressive and evolving design studio, contributing to the strategic growth of the practice across multiple sectors
- A respected and valued role within the business, working closely with and supported by our Directors and senior staff
- Career development opportunities which include an internal mentor scheme, professional development training allowance, and regular in-house knowledge sharing / training sessions
- Competitive salary with regular and structured reviews
- Commitment to wellbeing, with support from our Organisational Psychologist and access to an Employee Assistance Program
- A clear commitment to environmental, social, and cultural responsibility — through our Sustainability Committee, Reconciliation Action Plan Committee and a volunteering program that provides work-time volunteer hours
- Active industry partnerships, with the opportunity to attend industry events and become involved in industry bodies
- Opportunity for flexible working arrangements
- Paid Parental Leave
- Open-plan studio environment located just outside of the CBD in Collingwood
Apply
Applications close Monday 15 June — apply now to be considered.
If you are legally eligible to work in Australia and believe you could excel in this role, send your CV and cover letter to careers@studionine.net.au.
Please note only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.