Senior Design Manager

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Design Manager to lead and coordinate the design delivery of diverse property projects in Abu Dhabi. The role oversees the full design cycle from inception (RIBA Stage 0) through detailed design (Stage 4) and supports construction (Stage 5), ensuring projects meet client timelines, quality standards and budget targets.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare budgets, project briefs, scopes of services and programmes for consultant RFPs.
• Manage tender processes, evaluate bids, recommend awardees and administer contracts.
• Provide day‑to‑day guidance to awarded consultants to achieve time, quality and cost objectives.
• Collaborate with development, commercial and delivery teams on design strategy, schedule and execution.
• Review design deliverables for completeness, coordination and compliance with authority requirements.
• Secure design approvals from clients and government authorities and address queries.
• Produce presentations and progress reports for senior management and key stakeholders.
• Maintain active communication with clients, authorities and consultants to foster effective relationships.

Required profile

• Senior‑level experience managing design projects through RIBA stages 0‑4.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary consultant teams.
• Strong communication skills with clients, government authorities and internal stakeholders.
• In‑depth knowledge of local building regulations and statutory requirements.
• Ability to prepare and control project budgets and schedules.

Required skills

• RIBA design process knowledge.
• Project budgeting.
• Tender preparation and evaluation.
• Design coordination and review.
• Understanding of UAE building codes and authority submission procedures.