Senior Associate / Studio Lead, Architecture - Brisbane

Build a Studio. Shape a Market. Lead What's Next.

At HDR, we're doing something different.

As an employee-owned business, our people don't just contribute to projects, they help shape the direction of the business itself.

We're now investing in the next chapter of our Australian Architecture practice and are seeking an experienced architectural leader to establish and grow HDR's Brisbane Architecture Studio.

HDR's engineering and transportation teams have built a strong presence across Queensland over many years, delivering major infrastructure projects throughout South East Queensland and beyond. With well-established and successful Architecture studios already operating in Sydney and Melbourne, the foundations are in place for significant growth in Brisbane.

This is a rare opportunity to combine the backing of a global multidisciplinary architecture, engineering and infrastructure practice with the excitement and autonomy of building something new.

You'll lead the development of a Brisbane-based architecture team, develop client relationships, influence market strategy, and remain actively involved in the delivery of complex, high-profile projects across Queensland.

As Senior Associate / Studio Lead, Architecture - Brisbane, you will play a key role in establishing HDR's Architecture practice in Queensland and connecting it with our broader national network.

This is a unique opportunity to influence both project outcomes and business growth. You will:

• Lead the growth and strategic direction of HDR's Architecture practice in Queensland
• Provide technical leadership across complex and multidisciplinary project opportunities
• Build, mentor and inspire a high-performing architectural team
• Strengthen relationships with existing HDR clients  
• Identify and pursue new opportunities across health, education, science, aviation, defence, civic, infrastructure and emerging digital infrastructure markets
• Collaborate closely with Architecture leaders across Sydney, Melbourne and HDR's broader global network
• Champion design excellence, technical quality and multidisciplinary collaboration
• Help shape the culture, capability and identity of the Brisbane studio
• Act as a visible leader in the Queensland market and broader design community

We're seeking a leader who combines architectural excellence with a commercial and entrepreneurial mindset, and who is excited by the opportunity to help build and shape a growing practice.

You will likely bring:

• Significant experience leading complex architectural projects and multidisciplinary teams
• Strong client relationships and a proven ability to win and grow work
• Experience building teams, developing people and creating high-performing cultures
• Commercial acumen and an understanding of practice growth and business development
• Strong technical credibility and project delivery experience
• The ability to identify opportunities, build networks and establish market presence
• A collaborative leadership style and the ability to work effectively across disciplines and geographies
• Genuine enthusiasm for building and shaping a growing architecture business
• Experience in health, education, science, transport, aviation, defence, civic or complex infrastructure projects will be highly regarded.

Within the next few years, you will have established a thriving Brisbane Architecture practice that is recognised in the Queensland market, connected nationally, trusted by clients and positioned for sustainable long-term growth.

This isn't just a leadership role.

It's an opportunity to help define HDR Architecture's future in Queensland. #LI-CG3

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

Our Commitment

HDR is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified and/or experienced candidates, regardless of gender identity or expression, race or ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, or religious and political beliefs. This includes encouragement for veterans.

HDR acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we, our clients and communities live and work. As part of our commitment to reconciliation and diversity, we encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply. Join us in making a meaningful impact and contributing to an inclusive community.