Design Manager

Our client is a leading Real Estate Developer in Abu Dhabi, renowned for delivering landmark residential, mixed-use, and community developments across the UAE. They are seeking an experienced Design Manager to join their growing in-house development team, overseeing projects from early masterplanning through to construction and delivery.

Position Overview:
The Design Manager will play a key role in managing the design process across multiple large-scale developments, ensuring design excellence, coordination, and delivery in line with the company's vision and development standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong Architectural background and proven experience working on major masterplan and mixed-use projects within the UAE.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the design process across all project stages, from concept masterplanning through detailed design and site coordination.

• Oversee and coordinate the work of appointed consultants, architects, engineers, and specialist designers.

• Ensure design intent aligns with the project brief, development strategy, and brand guidelines.

• Review and approve design submissions, drawings, and technical documentation to ensure compliance with project requirements, budget, and schedule.

• Collaborate closely with internal development, project management, and construction teams to ensure smooth handover from design to execution.

• Monitor design progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies to maintain project timelines and quality.

• Participate in design reviews, value engineering exercises, and stakeholder presentations.

• Manage coordination with relevant authorities and ensure adherence to local regulations and building codes.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Architecture or a related discipline (Master's degree preferred).

• Minimum 10 years of professional experience, including at least 3 years in the UAE working on large-scale masterplan or mixed-use developments.

• Proven experience managing projects through all design and delivery stages, from concept to construction.

• Strong knowledge of UAE building codes, design standards, and approval processes.

• Excellent communication, coordination, and stakeholder management skills.

• Experience working with developers or major consultancies in the region is highly desirable.

• Proficiency in design management tools and understanding of BIM/Revit workflows is an advantage.