Studio Practice Leader

Studio Practice Leader, Riyadh

Form Careers has been exclusively engaged to appoint a Studio Practice Leader for a globally recognised architecture practice establishing its KSA studio. This full-time role is based in Riyadh and involves leading the operational establishment and growth of the practice's presence in Saudi Arabia.

Role Overview and Context

The Studio Practice Leader will take a pivotal role in bringing together clients, projects, people, operations, and opportunities. The practice is opening its Riyadh studio with signed and ongoing project work already in the Kingdom, providing a strong foundation for immediate impact. This position requires representing the practice at the highest level in Saudi Arabia, strengthening existing client relationships, and identifying new opportunities across the Kingdom.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the establishment and ongoing operation of the Riyadh studio.
• Integrate people, projects, and operational infrastructure to build a successful KSA business.
• Cultivate senior-level client relationships and drive business development across the Kingdom.
• Leverage an established network to identify opportunities and support winning new work.
• Oversee project delivery and ensure appropriate resource allocation as workload increases.
• Navigate regulatory, statutory, and approval processes within Saudi Arabia.
• Lead financial performance, reporting, compliance, and operational management.
• Build, mentor, and develop the local team.
• Represent the practice externally with credibility and strong cultural awareness.

Candidate Requirements

• Over 10 years of senior leadership experience within architecture, design, construction consultancy, or development.
• A strong track record of business development, client engagement, and winning work.
• Proven experience operating successfully in Saudi Arabia or the wider GCC.
• An established network of clients, developers, consultants, and industry contacts within KSA.
• Strong understanding of the Saudi market, regulatory environment, and approval processes.
• Excellent leadership, commercial, and communication skills.
• Strong cultural fluency in KSA.

Preferred Background

While an architectural background is preferred, it is not essential. Candidates with strong business development and leadership experience within the construction consultancy sector are also encouraged to apply. Professionals currently working client-side who are interested in returning to consultancy will also be considered.

Application Process

We welcome confidential expressions of interest for this position.