Studio Manager

Studio Manager at LAYER

Location: East London, United Kingdom

Be the Organisational Backbone of a Leading Design Studio

LAYER is a strategic design agency led by Benjamin Hubert, working at the forefront of experience-driven design for both the physical and digital worlds. We partner with some of the world's most innovative brands - including Nike, Samsung, Braun, BMW, Bang & Olufsen, and Vitra - to create products and experiences that shape how we live, work, and communicate.

We're looking for an exceptionally organised, detail-oriented Studio Manager to join our growing London studio. This is a dedicated administrative role at the heart of our operations - ideal for someone who thrives on structure, enjoys managing the day-to-day details, and takes pride in keeping a busy creative environment running smoothly.

Why This Role Matters

At LAYER, our creative work depends on the efficiency and stability of our operations. As Studio Manager, you'll be the person who ensures the studio runs like clockwork, enabling our design team to focus on what they do best. This role is not about creative input - it's about being the essential support system that holds everything together.

What You'll Be Doing

This is a hands-on, detail-focused role where no two days are exactly the same. You'll work closely with Benjamin Hubert and the wider team to manage everything from scheduling and logistics to financial admin and team coordination. If you love to-do lists, thrive on completing tasks, and enjoy making processes more efficient, this role is for you.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

• Studio Operations: Oversee the smooth day-to-day running of the studio - managing supplies, equipment, facilities, and ensuring an organised workspace
• Diary & Meeting Management: Coordinate complex schedules across multiple time zones, arrange client meetings, and manage Benjamin's calendar
• Administrative Support: Handle incoming and outgoing deliveries, maintain accurate records, manage office supplies, and process routine correspondence
• Staff Support: Track and manage staff leave, assist with onboarding new team members, and maintain team databases
• Team Culture: Organise regular team activities, such as Friday drinks, to foster a positive studio environment
• Social Media Oversight: Monitor LAYER's social media channels daily to ensure content accuracy, respond to comments and messages promptly, and flag any issues to the relevant team members

Monthly Responsibilities:

• Finance Admin: Reconcile company credit cards, manage expense reports, process supplier invoices, and handle PAYE payments
• Supplier & Vendor Management: Liaise with service providers, manage contracts, and ensure timely payments

Quarterly & Project-Based Tasks:

• Event & Travel Coordination: Organise team social events, book travel arrangements, and coordinate logistics for external meetings or conferences
• Press & Communications Support: Manage press enquiries, assist with media outreach for new project launches, and coordinate photoshoots
• Logistics & Shipping: Oversee the packing and international shipping of products and prototypes for exhibitions, awards entries, and client meetings, ensuring timely and secure delivery
• Awards Coordination: Manage the completion and submission of awards entries, including gathering necessary materials, coordinating with internal teams, and ensuring deadlines are met

Who We're Looking For

This role is perfect for someone who genuinely enjoys administrative work and finds satisfaction in keeping things organised and efficient. You'll be proactive, highly organised, and able to juggle multiple priorities without missing the details.

You'll Excel In This Role If You:

• Have 2-3 years' experience in an administrative or office management role (experience in a creative industry is a plus, but not essential)
• Are exceptionally organised, with strong attention to detail and the ability to prioritise tasks effectively
• Are proactive, reliable, and take ownership of your responsibilities without needing constant direction
• Have excellent communication skills and are comfortable liaising with people at all levels
• Enjoy problem-solving, streamlining processes, and finding ways to make day-to-day operations run more smoothly
• Are fluent in English (required)

Tech Proficiency:

• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar)
• Slack or similar communication tools

Why Work at LAYER?

While the role is administrative, you'll be an integral part of a vibrant, fast-paced creative environment. We value every member of our team and offer:

• Collaborative Culture: Work closely with a talented, international team in a supportive, friendly environment
• A Beautiful Workspace: Our 3,500 sq ft studio in East London - designed by LAYER - is a flexible, inspiring space in the heart of Hackney
• Clear Growth Path: While the role focuses on admin, there's potential to expand the role over time
• Competitive Package: We offer a competitive salary, holiday allowance, bonus structure, and half days on Fridays. Salary is dependent on experience.

How to Apply

If you're detail-driven, love keeping things organised, and want to play a key role in the success of one of London's leading design studios, we'd love to hear from you.

To apply, please follow these steps carefully:

• Send yourcover letterandCV
• Use the subject line: "Studio Manager Application"and address your application to Mandi.
• Attach your documents inPDF format, ensuring the total file size is under 2MB.

Applications that do not meet these criteria will not be considered.

Join LAYER and help us shape the future of design