Studio Practice Leader - Federal Health

Overview HKS is seeking a Studio Practice Leader to lead our Federal Health team. Responsible for overall management of the respective studio and the work of multiple project teams focused on the design, development and delivery of outstanding solutions for a practice area or building type. Executes the practice strategy in the studio(s). The Studio Practice Leader often leads multiple projects with multiple clients concurrently. The role focuses on growing leadership skills related to relationship‑building, collaboration and interpersonal skills while working on great projects for exceptional clients. Responsibilities Oversees projects assigned to the studio by focusing on the project process, service/delivery, work environment and project documentation. Collaborates in strategic planning and facilitates communication for the specific practice with other leaders, such as vetting studio marketing strategy and allocating needed resources. Partners with studio and office leadership to further the strategic goals of the firm, sector and office. Collaborates during the initial marketing stages through completion of construction, including programming client needs, conceptual and schematic design, design development and delivery. Collaborates with leaders such as Project Manager and Studio Design Leader to lead the team through all phases by guiding, advising and mentoring other designers on project work, developing design direction and leading critiques. Acts as a primary interface with clients for the respective studio, building and strengthening connections through a comprehensive understanding of their mission, goals, policies, needs and progress. Manages client expectations, team communication and consultant coordination for the studio in collaboration with project team leadership. Monitors staffing, utilization and growth management across the studio, including recommending adjustments where necessary. Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of the studio regarding all staff, business and financial operations. Serves as a technical resource for the studio, assisting in the resolution of complex problems and helping them grow in their roles. Reviews conceptual development and, in collaboration with Studio Design Leader, provides leadership, inspiration and motivation to the design team to ensure that the highest quality design documentation is produced and client satisfaction is achieved. Partners with Office Director as a liaison between the firm leadership and staff, communicating firm and regional initiatives and priorities. Emphasizes and incorporates HKS strategic priorities, such as Design Measures, into client solutions. Operates with an "ONE Firm" mindset, minimizing sector and operational variables within the office in collaboration with Regional Practice Director. Integrates HKS services, expertise and innovation in all projects while actively seeking opportunities to incorporate HKS best practices, sustainable design solutions, subject matter expertise and resources strategically and efficiently for the client, user and community. Exercises skills of persuasion and negotiation on critical issues. Travel will be required. Qualifications Accredited professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, related field or relevant years in education or experience. Licensure or certification in chosen field preferred. Typically 15+ years of experience, including a leadership role with demonstrated success in both project work and talent/resource development. Substantial experience in federal contracting process, procedure, and protocol, including FAR compliance, reporting requirements, and commercial business practices. Specialized experience with federal healthcare clients primarily including Defense Health Agency (DHA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Indian Health Services (IHS). Experience in implementation of government criteria for project design and delivery such as Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) and Veterans Affairs Technical Information Library (VA TIL). Experience with design‑build project delivery and DBIA’s Design‑Build Done Right® best practices required and DBIA, or Associate DBIA, professional certification preferred. Significant experience in the practice area of the studio. Sustainable design accreditation preferred. Familiarity with design‑related software preferred. Familiarity with the functionality of Vision. Experience with MS Office Suite, including Microsoft Project and Microsoft Teams preferred. Experience with government online, web‑enabled systems such as ProjNet, CPARS, and GovWin. Proficiency in logistics management, connecting people and resources to the right place at the right time. Successful track record in directing and providing leadership for design teams from business development presentations through strategy development, scope and fee management, and through all phases of design and construction administration. Successful track record in building, nurturing and fostering new client relationships. Excellent presentation skills. Strong leadership, organization, communication and relationship management skills. Strong organizational skills and the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously. Ability to work closely with design leaders to promote an inter‑disciplinary design approach and philosophy, and to facilitate its advancement across the firm. Ability to manage a team with a diplomatic and collaborative leadership style that values relationships and collaboration, both internally and externally. Ability to communicate in a clear, concise, and professional manner verbally and in writing. Ability to problem‑solve and apply innovative solutions. Ability to collaborate and encourage collaboration in a team environment. Ability to meet deadlines at expected quality levels. Salary and Benefits Base Salary Range: $150K - $185K annually – DC locations only. The estimate displayed represents the general base salary range of candidates hired in the DC location only. Factors that may be used to determine your actual salary may include internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. HKS offers a comprehensive total compensation & benefits package with health, dental, and vision care coverage, 401(k) plans, life & AD&DD insurance, short/long term disability plans, paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, vacation), and much more for benefits‑eligible employees. To learn more about our benefits visit this page. If you currently work for HKS, please submit your application via the Internal Careers Portal . HKS is an EEO/AA Employer: M/F/Disabled/Veteran #J-18808-Ljbffr HKS, Inc.