Design Manager - Real Estate

About the role

Asico is looking for an experienced Design Manager to lead design development and coordination across its project portfolio. You will take ownership of architectural and engineering design so that it is built, code-compliant, commercially practical and on schedule, acting as the technical link between the design studio and the construction site. The role reports to the Director of Operations & Projects Development.

Key responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day development and coordination of architectural, structural and MEP designs from concept to construction, reviewing consultant drawings and specifications and resolving clashes before site.
• Act as technical reviewer of design submissions and maintain BIM protocols and standards, supporting value engineering.
• Support the construction team on site, resolve design queries, conduct site visits and inspections, respond to contractor RFIs and review shop drawings and material submittals.
• Maintain design quality and compliance with brand standards and authority regulations, support QA/QC and escalate design risks early.
• Manage relationships with design consultants and support permitting and NOC submissions to Dubai Municipality, DDA, DEWA and Civil Defence.
• Mentor junior design and BIM team members, coordinate with Commercial, Procurement and Construction teams, and support testing, commissioning and handover.
• Present weekly and monthly design progress reports internally and support client design updates externally.

Required profile

• 10 to 12 years of experience in architectural or engineering design, including construction-stage design support and site supervision.
• Minimum 5 years of UAE experience is a must.
• Consultant or developer-side experience is essential; contractor-only experience does not qualify.
• Qualified Architect with a Bachelor's degree in Architecture.
• Valid UAE driving licence.
• Arabic speaker with strong written and spoken English.
• Comfortable splitting time between office coordination and active site presence.

Required skills

• Strong hands-on AutoCAD and BIM (Revit or equivalent), with practical experience of LOD, BEP and CDE protocols.
• Working knowledge of FIDIC conditions relating to design obligations, RFIs and variations.
• Familiarity with UAE construction codes and authority approval processes.

What we offer

• Monthly compensation.
• Health coverage and work permit.
• Professional development opportunities and resources.
• A dynamic, collaborative work environment with growth potential.