Design Manager

italent

We are seeking a proactive and experienced Design Manager to join a leading architectural firm based in Dubai. This is an exciting opportunity for a design-focused professional to manage the execution of high-profile, large-scale projects while ensuring design quality and consistency are maintained throughout all phases of development. As a Design Manager, you will play a key role in coordinating teams, liaising with clients, and ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of design excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee and manage the design process for multiple projects, ensuring the design intent is upheld while meeting project milestones and client expectations.
• Collaborate closely with the Design Principal, project managers, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless project delivery from concept through to construction.
• Act as the key liaison between design teams, clients, contractors, and consultants to facilitate clear communication and efficient decision-making.
• Coordinate and review design work, ensuring it aligns with project objectives, budget, and schedule, and adheres to regulatory requirements.
• Manage the preparation and submission of design-related documentation, including drawings, reports, and presentations.
• Lead design coordination meetings and ensure that all team members are aligned on project scope, goals, and deliverables.
• Ensure quality control throughout the design and delivery phases, addressing any design issues that arise during construction.
• Provide support in project planning, budgeting, and scheduling, working closely with the project management team to optimize project workflow.
• Support the recruitment and mentoring of junior designers, ensuring a collaborative and professional work environment.
• Stay current with design trends, industry standards, and best practices to continually improve the design management process.

Key Requirements:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in architectural design or design management, with a proven track record managing large-scale projects.
• Strong technical and design knowledge, with experience in managing design development, design documentation, and project delivery.
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and lead cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in design and project management software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, and Microsoft Project or similar tools.
• Experience coordinating with clients, consultants, contractors, and other stakeholders throughout the design and construction process.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to present and explain design concepts and technical details to various audiences.
• A degree in Architecture or related field from a recognized institution. Professional accreditation (e.g., RIBA, AIA, or equivalent) is preferred.
• Familiarity with building regulations and sustainability practices in the UAE or international context.
• A collaborative approach to problem-solving and decision-making, with the ability to adapt to changing project needs and timelines.

Desirable Attributes:

• Experience working on high-profile, large-scale projects in the Middle East is an advantage.
• Fluency in English and Arabic is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining design quality.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment with evolving project demands.