A senior leadership opportunity within the HAPA group

HAPA are an award-winning, design-led architecture studio based in Brighton, with a strong reputation in both residential and commercial sectors. Alongside our sustainable, nature-inspired architectural work, we operate a specialist sister company delivering commercial interior fit-outs and architectural projects for some of the UK’s and Europe’s most popular food and hospitality brands.

We are seeking a Technical Director to lead this dynamic commercial arm, someone who thrives in a client-facing environment and is ready to take ownership of a growing area of the business. This is not about managing a large team – it’s about stepping into a pivotal leadership role where you will run and develop this side of the company, with the support of the wider HAPA team as needed. For the right person, this could become a business partner–level position.

The role

• Direct and manage the commercial fit-out and architectural team, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, brand-compliant projects.
• Lead client relationships with major commercial operators, acting as a trusted partner and primary point of contact.
• Deliver projects for well-known international hospitality and retail brands (previous clients include major fast-food operators and high-street names).
• Attend and chair design and construction meetings on site in the UK and across Europe.
• Oversee detailed design, technical drawings, approvals, and fit-out coordination.
• Ensure projects meet time-sensitive deadlines, commercial goals, and client standards.
• Work closely with directors to develop and expand this growing sector.

About you

• Extensive experience at a senior/director level within commercial architecture, fit-out, or shop fitting.
• Proven track record delivering large-scale, high-energy projects for hospitality, retail, or restaurant brands.
• Strong technical expertise and detailed knowledge of interior fit-out processes, regulations, and brand roll-out programmes.
• Confident in leading teams, managing stakeholders, and overseeing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and client-facing skills, with the ability to build long-term professional relationships.
• Willingness to travel regularly within the UK and Europe.

What we offer

• A genuine director-level role with autonomy to run and grow the commercial arm of the business.
• The opportunity to work on projects for high-profile international brands.
• A small, collaborative, and supportive studio culture where your input will directly shape the future of the practice.
• Flexibility to balance Brighton studio time with remote working and travel.
• Competitive package, with potential for profit share and future partnership for the right candidate.
• Opportunities for professional development and the chance to build and grow a team in future.

If you’re ready to take the lead on exciting, high-profile commercial projects and play a key role in shaping this growing business, we’d love to hear from you.

• Please send your CV and a cover letter to rosie@hapa-architects.co.uk
• Please send applications in by the 31st October