Design Management Director

About the role

We are seeking a Design Management Director to lead our design management function across multiple real‑estate development projects. The role will shape the overall design strategy, ensure high‑quality outcomes and integrate design activities with all other project disciplines.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Design Management Department across various development projects.
• Develop and implement the company’s design strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee all design phases from concept through construction support, including authority approvals and tender documentation.
• Coordinate external architects, engineers, landscape designers and specialist consultants.
• Ensure designs comply with local regulations, international standards, company guidelines and project requirements.
• Collaborate with Development, Construction, Commercial, Procurement, Sales, Marketing and Project Management teams for integrated delivery.
• Review and approve design deliverables, technical drawings, specifications and consultant submissions.
• Manage design budgets, schedules, deliverables and consultant performance.
• Drive value‑engineering initiatives while maintaining design quality and customer experience.
• Identify design risks and implement proactive mitigation strategies.
• Support tendering activities with technical evaluations and design clarifications.
• Lead design review meetings and present updates to executive management.
• Build, mentor and develop a high‑performing design management team.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture (Master’s degree is an advantage).
• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in architecture and design management within real‑estate development.
• At least 5 years in a senior management or director‑level position.
• Proven experience managing large‑scale residential, commercial, hospitality and mixed‑use developments.
• Strong understanding of architectural design, engineering coordination, authority approval processes and construction documentation.
• Experience working with international design consultants is highly preferred.
• Fluency in English and Arabic.
• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance design excellence, cost efficiency and project timelines.

Required skills

• Proficiency in BIM platforms.
• Advanced knowledge of AutoCAD.
• Advanced knowledge of Revit.
• Competence with Microsoft Office applications.
• Design coordination expertise.
• Value‑engineering techniques.
• Project lifecycle management.