Director of Architecture – Hospitality Studio

About the role

This senior leadership position is based in our client’s Dubai studio and reports directly to a Partner. You will drive both the creative and commercial success of the Hospitality Architecture studio, leading the design and delivery of high‑end hospitality, resort and mixed‑use projects while identifying new opportunities, winning work and supporting the studio’s regional and international expansion.

Key responsibilities

• Drive growth of the hospitality architecture business across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with hotel operators, developers, investors and industry partners.
• Lead business‑development activities including networking, pitches, design competitions and contract negotiations.
• Identify market opportunities and contribute to strategic positioning and studio expansion.
• Deliver measurable results in revenue generation and client acquisition.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams through all project stages, providing creative direction that enhances guest experience while meeting commercial and sustainability goals.
• Present concepts confidently to clients and stakeholders.
• Mentor and develop architectural teams to foster a high‑performing, collaborative culture.
• Oversee multiple projects from concept through construction, managing scopes, fees, budgets, programmes and financial performance.
• Ensure technical compliance and delivery to the highest standards.
• Travel regionally and internationally as required.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture; registered architect (RIBA, AIA or equivalent preferred).
• 15+ years of experience, with at least 12 years in luxury hospitality, resort and mixed‑use developments.
• Strong portfolio of completed projects.
• Fluent English.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a proven track record of winning work and growing client relationships in the hospitality sector.
• Strong commercial acumen and experience managing project profitability and studio performance.
• Outstanding presentation, negotiation and client‑facing skills.
• Exceptional conceptual design ability combined with technical and delivery expertise.
• Confidence to operate independently and lead high‑performing teams.

Required skills

• Revit
• AutoCAD
• Rhino
• Adobe Creative Suite