Senior Project Manager - Architectural Design Reportage Real Estate

Role Summary

A senior leadership role for a Project Manager specializing in Architectural Design. The successful candidate will be the central figure in driving the concept design phase of complex local and international projects. This entails end-to-end management from internal management approval through to securing concept approvals from relevant authorities.

The role demands a strategic leader with deep expertise in the UAE's regulatory landscape, exceptional team management skills, and a proven ability to orchestrate multi-disciplinary design teams to deliver high-quality designs on time.

Key Responsibilities

• End-to-End Concept Design Leadership: Plan, execute, and finalize the entire architectural concept design process. This includes setting team timelines, securing management approvals, and coordinating with authorities for final concept approval.
• Stakeholder & Communication Management: Serve as the primary liaison between the Managing Director, Group Head of Concept Design, internal teams (Development, Production), and external parties (consultants, authorities).
• Project Schedule & Risk Management: Develop, monitor, and control the design project schedule. Proactively identify and mitigate risks to ensure timely delivery against all milestones.
• Consultant & Budget Oversight: Manage external architectural and engineering consultants, including scope, performance, contractual obligations, and fee negotiations, as directed by the Group Head.
• Team Management & Leadership: Directly manage and motivate the design team by setting clear targets, conducting follow-ups, and ensuring output quality. Act as Deputy to the Department Head when required.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Years of Experience: Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in Project Management, specifically within the architectural and engineering design phase.
• Project Expertise: Proven track record managing complex projects (e.g., high-rise residential, master planning) in the UAE.
• Regional Knowledge: Mandatory, hands-on experience navigating the full design approval process with regulatory authorities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
• Leadership Skills: Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills with experience leading diverse, multi-cultural teams.
• Contract Knowledge: Familiarity with common design contracts and consultant management principles.

Preferred Attributes

• Certification: Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is highly preferred.
• Software Proficiency:
  Project Management: Advanced skills in Primavera P6, MS Project, and MS Excel.
  Design Workflow: Familiarity with design software such as Revit, AutoCAD, and BIM processes.
• Language: Fluency in English is essential. Proficiency in Arabic is a significant advantage.