Our client is an internationally recognised interior architecture and design practice renowned for creating distinctive luxury hospitality, residential and mixed-use environments across the globe. With an established portfolio spanning award-winning hotels, resorts, private residences and branded developments, the studio is known for its thoughtful approach to storytelling, cultural authenticity and exceptional guest experiences.
As part of the continued growth of their brand, the newly established London studio is expanding its presence across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East, building on the practice's strong reputation and global client network.
This represents an exciting new chapter for the business, creating opportunities to strengthen relationships with developers, hotel operators, investors and private clients, while delivering world-class design solutions across multiple sectors.
They are seeking an ambitious and commercially minded Head of Client Development to lead the Business Development and to play a pivotal role in shaping the growth of the studio. Working closely with the leadership team of the main office, this individual will help drive strategic expansion, cultivate key industry relationships, and secure high-value projects that support the studio's long-term vision.
Key Responsibilities:
Business Development & Growth
- Develop and execute the studio's business development strategy.
- Identify and secure new project opportunities across luxury residential, hospitality and branded residential sectors.
- Build and maintain relationships with developers, hotel operators, private clients, asset managers, architects, project managers and industry consultants.
- Generate qualified leads and manage opportunities through the full business development lifecycle.
- Identify new markets and sectors for strategic expansion both within the UK and internationally.
- Attend industry events, conferences, networking functions and design fairs to promote the studio and generate opportunities.
Client Acquisition & Relationship Management
- Act as the first point of contact for new business enquiries.
- Lead introductory meetings and presentations with prospective clients and partners.
- Develop strong relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers.
- Manage and nurture prospective client pipelines to maximise conversion opportunities.
- Maintain exceptional client experience throughout the proposal and onboarding process.
Proposals & Commercial Strategy
- Support the preparation of fee proposals, capability presentations and tender submissions.
- Work alongside the design and project teams to develop compelling project narratives and commercial offers.
- Support fee negotiations and contract discussions.
- Drive pipeline performance, forecasting and conversion metrics.
- Contribute to annual revenue targets and growth planning.
Marketing & Brand Development
- Collaborate closely with the Marketing Team to align business development initiatives with marketing campaigns.
- Support the development of strategic partnerships, thought leadership initiatives and industry collaborations.
- Identify opportunities for awards, speaking engagements, editorial features and industry recognition.
- Strengthen the studio's visibility within luxury hospitality and residential sectors.
Candidate Profile:
Essential
- Minimum 5 years' experience in business development, client relations or commercial strategy within interior design, architecture, hospitality, or luxury real estate sector.
- Proven network of relevant industry and client relationships.
- Proven track record of securing and developing high-value client relationships.
- Strong understanding of the luxury residential and hospitality markets.
- Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
- Experience preparing proposals, presentations and business development materials.
- Commercially astute with strong negotiation and relationship management abilities.
- Highly organised, self-motivated and proactive.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with senior leadership.
Desirable
- Degree in Business, Interior Design, Architecture, Real Estate, Hospitality Management or related discipline.
- Existing network within luxury hospitality, property development, architecture or interior design sectors.
- Experience working with international clients and projects across EMEA.
- Understanding of design procurement and project delivery processes.
- Knowledge of CRM systems and pipeline management tools.
Personal Attributes
- Professional, confident and highly personable.
- Passionate about architecture, interiors, hospitality and design.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with strong commercial instincts.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to identify and convert opportunities.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to excellence.
- Comfortable operating within a creative, fast-paced studio environment.