About us

Archer Office creates finely crafted architecture with a strong cultural and community focus. The team is currently working on a range of cultural, performing arts, transport, and sports infrastructure for government clients, alongside commercial and residential projects.

About the role The Operations Manager is responsible for the effective, efficient, and financially sound operation of the practice. This role provides leadership across finance, resourcing, systems, and business operations, ensuring the studio is structured to support high-quality design outcomes and sustainable growth. Working closely with the Director and Associates, the Operations Lead translates strategic goals into operational systems, financial oversight, and performance tracking, enabling the practice to operate with clarity, discipline, and accountability.

Key responsibilities

- Lead the day-to-day operational management of the studio, ensuring smooth and efficient workflows.
- Develop, implement, and refine practice systems, including project management, resourcing, QA, and reporting.
- Maintain and improve operational processes to support scalability and consistency.
- Oversee IT systems, software platforms, and external service providers.
- Work with the Director to develop and manage practice budgets and financial forecasts.
- Oversee cash flow, invoicing,



accounts receivable/payable, and financial reporting.
- Track and report on project performance — fees, budgets, resourcing, and profitability.
- Oversee studio-wide resourcing, balancing workloads across projects and team members.
- Ensure projects are set up correctly and tracked consistently.
- Oversee HR processes including recruitment, onboarding, contracts, and staff records.

About you

- 5–10+ years' experience in operations, practice management, or business management (architecture, design, or professional services preferred)
- Demonstrated experience managing financial and operational performance
- Strong operational and financial acumen, with a explicit understanding of how a design practice functions as a business.
- Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and systems simultaneously.
- Analytical and data-driven, able to interpret financial and operational information.
- Clear communicator, able to work across all levels of the studio.
- Proactive and solution-oriented, with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Financial systems (e.g. Xero or similar)
- Project management tools (e.g. Total Synergy, Asana, Monday)
- Advanced Excel / Google Sheets (budgeting, forecasting, reporting)

📌 Operations Manager (Waterloo)
🏢 Archer Office
📍 Waterloo