Design Manager – Buildings Design Practice

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Design Manager to join our Buildings Design practice in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. You will drive the successful delivery of innovative design projects while fostering a collaborative, inclusive environment that empowers your team to excel. As the strategic bridge between creative vision and practical execution, you will ensure all design initiatives meet organizational goals, client expectations, and quality standards.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the complete design lifecycle from development through detailed design and delivery, ensuring seamless coordination across all project phases.
• Manage design coordination and resolve complex interdisciplinary interfaces, bringing together diverse technical specialists to challenge assumptions and drive integrated solutions.
• Conduct design reviews and coordination workshops, providing assertive technical leadership while maintaining transparency and inclusivity across all stakeholder groups.
• Collaborate closely with clients, end users, contractors, and specialist consultants to translate operational requirements into practical, coordinated design solutions.
• Manage design risks, technical assurance, program requirements, and stakeholder expectations while maintaining unwavering focus on quality and buildability.
• Allocate resources strategically and manage project budgets, timelines, and deliverables with efficiency and precision.
• Champion innovative design thinking and best practices, remaining flexible and resilient to evolving project needs and market demands.
• Communicate design decisions and project status transparently to all stakeholders, demonstrating empathy and emotional intelligence.

Required profile

• Minimum 8‑10 years of progressive experience in design management, with experience on hospitality and mixed‑use development projects.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex, multidisciplinary projects with measurable outcomes.
• Demonstrated experience leading and managing design teams, coordinating consultants, and working directly with clients and key project stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of multidisciplinary design coordination and critical interfaces between various engineering and design disciplines.
• Bachelor's degree in Design, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.

What we offer

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability benefits.
• Paid time off, flexible work options and well‑being resources.
• Retirement savings plan and employee stock purchase plan.