Design & Development Manager – School Projects (6‑month contract)

About the role

We are looking for a Design & Development Manager to lead the full design lifecycle of school projects, from concept through detailed design to delivery. This 6‑month contract position will be based in Dubai and will focus on delivering high‑quality, sustainable architecture while ensuring client satisfaction.

Key responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Head of Design to define interior design strategies, policies, and processes.
• Manage complex projects from concept to close‑out, coordinating design teams, consultants, and authorities.
• Allocate resources efficiently and act as the primary liaison between the design team and business stakeholders.
• Oversee design evaluation, schedule adherence, and progress monitoring.
• Provide design input to external consultants from preliminary to execution stages.
• Inspect sites to verify compliance with standards and quality expectations.
• Guide material, finish, and furniture selection while controlling costs.
• Obtain necessary approvals and ensure alignment with HSE, IT, security, and brand requirements.
• Monitor risks, quality of service, and customer expectations throughout the project lifecycle.
• Introduce sustainability concepts to achieve energy, water, and resource savings.
• Prepare proposals and participate in RFP/RFQ processes.

Required profile

• Proven experience managing design projects from concept through delivery.
• Strong ability to coordinate with external consultants, authorities, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience monitoring budgets, schedules, and design quality.
• Knowledge of sustainability principles applied to architectural design.
• Excellent communication skills for stakeholder liaison and client updates.

Required skills