Director - Architecture (Entertainment)

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

AECOM are currently seeking a Design Director, to lead our entertainment practice. The Entertainment Lead (Design) provides strategic leadership for AECOM’s Entertainment sector across the Middle East within the Buildings & Places business line. Operating at Director level, this role defines and drives a design-led sector strategy, leads high-value client engagement, and ensures design excellence across AECOM’s Entertainment portfolio.

As the senior sector authority, the Entertainment Lead acts as a visible ambassador for AECOM’s design capability, partnering with regional leadership, Architecture + Interiors teams, Client Account Managers, and multidisciplinary groups to translate strategy into disciplined pursuits, high-quality delivery, and a strong market presence.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Sector Leadership

• Set and execute the Entertainment sector strategy aligned with Middle East business objectives.
• Develop and maintain a design-led growth plan, including market positioning, target clients, and priority pursuits.
• Advise leadership on market trends, client expectations, and emerging opportunities.

Work Winning & Client Engagement

• Lead major Entertainment pursuits as senior design authority, shaping win strategies and design narratives.
• Act as Project Director or Sector Lead on strategic bids requiring senior design leadership.
• Build and maintain senior-level client relationships across developers, owners, and operators.
• Represent AECOM at industry forums and conferences as a recognized sector leader.

Design Excellence & Governance

• Champion design excellence for Entertainment projects, setting benchmarks and review gateways.
• Provide senior oversight on design quality, coordination, and risk management.
• Ensure compliance with AECOM design standards and governance frameworks.

Delivery Oversight

• Oversee delivery of Entertainment projects, ensuring alignment with contractual and client expectations.
• Support project start-up and reviews for major commissions, managing risks and promoting best practices.

Leadership & Capability Development

• Provide visible, inclusive leadership consistent with AECOM values.
• Mentor senior staff and high-potential talent, supporting succession planning.
• Drive development of Entertainment-specific design capability and recruit specialist talent.

Thought Leadership & Brand

• Act as a regional figurehead for AECOM’s Entertainment design capability.
• Lead sector-specific thought leadership and marketing initiatives in collaboration with marketing teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or related discipline; professional registration preferred.
• 15+ years’ experience with senior leadership responsibility in Entertainment, leisure, or destination projects.
• Proven track record in leading major pursuits and complex client engagements.
• Recognized sector expertise with established senior-level client network in GCC.
• Ability to operate effectively at Director level within a matrix organization.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills at executive level.
• Experience in multidisciplinary consultancy environment.
• Strong portfolio of design-led Entertainment projects.

Additional Information

About AECOM

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com.

What makes AECOM a great place to work

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

ReqID: J10137158

Business Line: Building Engineering

Business Group: DCS

Strategic Business Unit: ME and Africa

Career Area: Design

Work Location Model: On-Site