Reports To: Managing Director / Executive Leadership
Department: Architecture & Design
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Senior Architect will serve as the Head of the Architecture Team, providing strategic leadership, design direction, and technical oversight across all architectural projects within The Paradigm Group.
This role is responsible for driving design excellence, managing the architecture team, and ensuring seamless integration between design intent and project execution, while aligning with the company's vision, standards, and growth objectives.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Departmental Oversight
Lead and manage the Architecture Department as the Head of Team
Set design standards, processes, and quality benchmarks for all projects
Allocate work, supervise deliverables, and ensure optimal team performance
Drive accountability, discipline, and high-performance culture within the team
Collaborate with executive management on strategic project decisions
Design Leadership & Concept Development
Lead architectural concept development from ideation to execution
Approve all design outputs before submission or implementation
Ensure all designs are innovative, functional, and aligned with company standards
Maintain consistency in design language across all projects
Project Oversight & Execution Alignment
Oversee architectural input across multiple projects simultaneously
Ensure alignment between design documentation and site execution
Work closely with Project Managers, Engineers, and Quantity Surveyors
Conduct site visits to validate implementation quality and resolve issues
Technical Excellence & Compliance
Ensure full compliance with local and international architectural standards
Maintain adherence to Architects Registration Council of Nigeria and Nigerian Institute of Architects regulations
Review and approve all construction drawings, specifications, and documentation
Provide technical solutions to complex architectural and construction challenges
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
Lead high-level client interactions and design presentations
Interpret client needs and translate them into viable architectural solutions
Manage expectations and ensure client satisfaction
Support contract negotiations and design-related discussions
Team Development & Mentorship
Mentor junior architects, interns, and trainees
Conduct regular design reviews and knowledge-sharing sessions
Support HR in recruitment, onboarding, and performance management
Build a strong pipeline of future architectural leaders
Innovation & Continuous Improvement
Drive adoption of modern architectural tools, technologies, and trends
Promote sustainable and cost-effective design practices
Improve internal workflows and architectural processes
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)
Design Quality & Innovation Index
Project Delivery Timeliness
Regulatory Compliance Rate (Target: 100%)
Client Satisfaction Score
Reduction in Design Errors/Rework
Team Productivity & Development
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Architecture (B.Arch) - Mandatory
Master's Degree (M.Arch) - Advantage
Professional Certification
Registered Architect with Architects Registration Council of Nigeria
Member of Nigerian Institute of Architects
Experience
Minimum of 8 - 12 years post-qualification experience
Proven leadership experience managing architectural teams
Strong portfolio of completed and ongoing projects
Experience in real estate, architecture, or construction firms is highly preferred
Technical Skills
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, ArchiCAD, SketchUp, Lumion, etc.
Strong understanding of building systems, materials, and construction processes
Deep knowledge of Nigerian building regulations and standards
CORE COMPETENCIES
Leadership & Team Management
Strategic Thinking & Design Direction
Technical Expertise & Attention to Detail
Project Coordination & Execution
Communication & Presentation Skills
Problem-Solving & Decision-Making
WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
Internal: Executive Management, Projects Team, Procurement, Finance, HR
External: Clients, Contractors, Consultants, Regulatory Authorities
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must attach a comprehensive portfolio of past and current architectural projects
Portfolio should clearly demonstrate design capability, project involvement, and range of experience
Applications without a portfolio will not be considered
SUCCESS PROFILE
A successful candidate will be:
A strong leader capable of driving a department
A high-level designer with practical execution knowledge
A strategic thinker with business and project awareness
A mentor committed to developing people and systems