Practice Manager - Landscape Architecture

Position Overview

The Landscape Architecture Practice Manager will lead and oversee the operational management of a landscape architecture team (generally comprising between one and four employees), ensuring efficient project execution, high-quality design standards, and client satisfaction. This role combines project oversight, resource management, and business development support to drive growth and excellence within the practice. They willalso begin contributing more thoroughly to the strategic vision and execution for the practice.

Key Responsibilities

Project Oversight:

• Lead and manage complex landscape architecture projects from conceptual design through construction administration, ensuring adherence to budget, schedule, and quality standards
• Ensure effective workload distribution among project team by evaluating project requirements and team capacities. Develop and implement strategic approaches to effectively manage team backlog
• Review and approve design concepts, technical documents, and construction details to ensure compliance with industry standards and client expectations
• In conjunction with departmental leadership, establish, promote, and assure quality on P+D projects deliverables by developing and implementing consistent QA/QC procedures and practices
• Occasionally undertake production work to support project timelines and deliverables, ensuring hands-on involvement in design and planning processes while balancing leadership responsibilities
• Lead conflict resolution and negotiation efforts to address project challenges while maintaining a focus on collaborative solutions

Team Leadership/Development:

• Mentor and support the professional growth of team members, fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and excellence within the practice
• Provide guidance and training on design techniques, project management, and industry best practices to enhance team performance
• Participate in salary reviews and performance evaluations as needed

Financial Management:

• Oversee project budgets, monitor financial performance, and implement strategies to maximize profitability while delivering exceptional design solutions
• Participate in contract development and financial forecasting for the practice
• Review Billing Review Report (BRRs) from accounting ensuring accuracy, alignment with project scope, and timely communication with stakeholders for any clarifications or adjustments needed
• Regularly prepare and present comprehensive updates and performance reports to department leadership, highlighting project progress, team achievements, and areas for improvement, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and facilitating informed decision-making

Business Development/Outreach:

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and community partners to secure new business opportunities and repeat work
• Lead the preparation of proposals, presentations, and qualifications packages that effectively communicate the firm's capabilities and design vision
• Help to organize and lead community meetings, workshops, and outreach efforts to engage the public and gather feedback on proposed designs and planning initiatives

Strategic Leadership:

• Assist Practice Leads and other department leaders in developing and implementing the strategic vision for the landscape architecture practice, aligning it with the overall goals of the broader department and Firm
• Identify emerging trends in landscape architecture and sustainability, integrating them into the practice to enhance innovation and competitiveness

Collaboration and Coordination:

• Collaborate with other disciplines to ensure integrated project delivery and enhance overall project outcomes
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies, municipalities, and community organizations to ensure compliance with codes, permits, and community standards
• Foster effective partnerships with corporate services including Accounting, Admin Services, and HR among others, to streamline processes, ensure compliance, and enhance operational efficiency

Skills + Experience

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited program in Landscape Architecture, Urban, Regional, or Community Planning, or a related field. Master's degree preferred
• Possess a minimum of 7 years' experience in planning, design, or related field
• RLA licensure required
• Maintain proficiency with essential technologies and software including AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, etc.
• Exhibit deep expertise in design, planning, and regulatory standards, ensuring project compliance and alignment with industry requirements and best practices
• Exhibit adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced work environment, effectively responding to changing project demands and challenges while maintaining focus and performance
• Ability to work within a collaborative team environment, communicate effectively with project team and leadership
• Demonstrate exceptional oral and written communication skills and interpersonal expertise to effectively present complex materials to clients, project teams, stakeholders, and the general public, fostering clear understanding and engagement across all audiences
• Commitment to team success and personal career growth
• Skillfully manage multiple competing priorities, applying strong organizational and time management skills to ensure timely delivery and maintain project momentum across all phases

Work Environment + Physical Demands

The characteristics described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. When properly requested and when feasible (without undue hardship to the company), reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

• Work will primarily be in an office setting with limited opportunities to be exposed to adverse environmental conditions, however when conducting field work, exposure to outside environmental conditions should be expected.
• Work will be primarily working with fingers by picking, pinching, typing, and grasping often with repetitive motion.
• Must have visual acuity for viewing a computer screen, the ability to talk, hear and sit for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to carry, lift and push/pull up to 5 pounds frequently and up to 30 pounds occasionally. When working in the field, the need to carry, lift and push/pull up to 50 or higher pounds may occur.
• Field based work will involve long-term standing and frequent walking as well as include common hazards encountered while maneuvering through project sites.
• Must have the ability to see, smell, hear, talk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel and twist, crouch, crawl, reach, grasp, sit, stand, and walk.
• Additional physical duties may be required as necessary.