Principal Architect – Design Lead

About the role

Stantec is looking for a Principal Architect to lead design across a broad portfolio of commercial and master‑planning projects in Abu Dhabi. You will shape the practice, drive design excellence, and work closely with high‑profile clients.

Key responsibilities

• Provide design leadership for the emerging commercial architectural practice.
• Guide growth of the Abu Dhabi practice and foster a strong design culture.
• Deliver conceptual architectural designs for master‑planning and vertical architecture projects.
• Develop and manage a portfolio of commercial projects, ensuring compliance with Stantec standards.
• Oversee the design process from concept through schematic and detailed design.
• Coordinate with design leadership across offices to apply best practices.
• Support resource allocation and management across offices as needed.
• Assist the Business Center Lead and Sector Leaders in expanding the commercial sector.
• Build and maintain client relationships, generate project pipelines, and strategize project pursuits.

Required profile

• Minimum 15 years of post‑graduate architectural experience.
• At least 5 years of experience in the UAE, preferably with an international consultancy.
• RIBA or AIA accredited.
• Fully conversant with BIM/Revit delivery processes.
• Strong knowledge of local design codes and requirements (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, LEED, Estidama).
• Proven client‑facing experience.

Required skills

• BIM
• Revit
• LEED
• Estidama

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a high‑impact architectural practice.
• Collaboration with a global multidisciplinary team.
• Exposure to high‑profile regional projects.