Pratice Manager - Shrewsbury | Newtown | Welshpool
We're looking for a Practice Manager to help spearhead the growth and direction of Hughes Architects. Could this be you?
You could be located at our new Shresbury office, or at Newtown or Welshpool.
Location: Newtown, Welshpool or Shrewsbury
Hours: Full-time
Type: Permanent
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
The Opportunity
Hughes Architects is a respected, design-led architectural practice working across Wales and the Borders, with studios in Newtown, Welshpool and Shrewsbury. As we continue to grow, we are looking for a highly organised, commercially minded Practice Manager to join our management team.
This is a pivotal role within the practice. You will oversee the smooth day to day running of the business, ensuring our teams can deliver high quality design work and an excellent service to clients. Working closely with the Directors, you will support operations, finance, HR, marketing, business development, and office management across multiple studio locations — a key part of the role, and one that requires strong communication, presence, and adaptability.
This is an ideal role for someone who thrives in a varied, hands on position within a growing business, is comfortable working with creative professionals, and brings confidence, professionalism, and real gravitas.
About Us
Hughes Architects are a RIBA Chartered Practice with specialist expertise in residential, commercial, heritage, conservation and low energy design. We are a close knit, collaborative team who care deeply about providing an exceptional client experience and supporting each other’s professional development.
We value flexibility, trust, and work–life balance, and we invest in the wellbeing and progression of our people. Benefits include private health insurance and a supportive, friendly culture built on quality, integrity and continuous improvement.
What You’ll Be Doing
Business Operations & Finance
• Supporting Directors with fee proposals, scope reviews and project profitability
• Liaising with accountants and payroll providers
• Overseeing cashflow monitoring, bank accounts, expenses and invoices payable
• Managing insurance renewals and compliance documentation
• Ensuring operational consistency across all offices
HR Administration
• Supporting recruitment activity, onboarding, probation reviews and HR recordkeeping
• Ensure contracts, handbooks and policies are updated
• Maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in all people-related matters
Marketing & Communications
• Working with Directors and external partners on PR activity, website updates, social media and branding
• Assisting with marketing materials, award entries and business visibility
Business Development Support
• Coordinating networking, relationship building meetings and follow up actions
• Supporting tender submissions, framework bids and business plan delivery
• Monitoring opportunities and maintaining CRM-style records
Office & Practice Management
• Coordinating operations across multiple studios — ensuring alignment, consistency and smooth running
• Preparing risk assessments, H&S documentation and compliance updates
• Supporting with IT issues, software queries and external suppliers
• Maintaining an organised, well-functioning office environment in each location
What We’re Looking For
• Strong financial and operational confidence
• Highly organised, proactive and calm under pressure
• A confident communicator with the gravitas to handle sensitive conversations
• Comfortable working with creative teams
• Experience with Xero (or willingness to develop proficiency)
• Someone who enjoys variety and “wearing many hats” in a small but ambitious business
• A positive, solutions focused mindset and desire to contribute to business growth
• Flexibility to work across all three offices as needed
Why Join Us?
• A friendly, collaborative, design-led environment
• Genuine variety and autonomy
• Private health insurance and other staff wellbeing benefits
• The opportunity to play a central role in a growing, ambitious architectural practice
• Real influence — you will help shape how the business operates, grows and thrives
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a short cover letter explaining why you feel this role is right for you to: careers@hughesarchitects.co.uk
