Chief Operating Officer (COO)

  • Australia
  • Sydney
  • Permanent
  • Negotiable

Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Creative Mid-Tier Architecture Firm | Sydney
We’re partnering with a dynamic, design-led architecture studio seeking a commercially minded and strategic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join their leadership team. This is a rare opportunity to step into a pivotal leadership role within a values-driven, creatively ambitious business.
Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will play a critical role in shaping and supporting the firm’s growth, structure, and operational performance, ensuring alignment across strategy, finance, legal, and delivery.

Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with the CEO, CMO, CFO, and senior leaders to execute business strategy and lead organisational alignment.
  • Oversee operational performance across the practice, ensuring seamless project delivery, scalable processes, and clear accountability.
  • Drive commercial success through effective contract negotiation, risk mitigation, and financial oversight.
  • Strengthen corporate structure and support business development via partnership agreements and legal frameworks.
  • Contribute to brand positioning and uphold the firm’s IP, values, and creative identity.
  • Cultivate stakeholder relationships across internal teams, clients, and external partners.
  • Translate strategy into structured, actionable plans and clear communication across all levels of the business.

Who We’re Looking For

  • A strategic operator with deep commercial and legal understanding, ideally with exposure to creative, design-led environments.
  • Someone who has perhaps been a CFO, General Manager, or Head of Operations – and is ready to step into a COO position.
  • Down-to-earth, pragmatic, and unafraid of a challenge – but also confident switching gears and stepping into a more polished, boardroom-ready persona when needed.
  • A natural collaborator and strong communicator who thrives in a fast-paced, people-first culture.
  • Experience in or passion for the built environment, design, or architecture is a bonus.

Why Join

This role is ideal for a leader seeking a career-defining move – where operational excellence meets creative ambition. You’ll help shape the next chapter of a nationally respected firm with a strong identity, collaborative culture, and serious growth plans.

Apply now

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