Design Manager – NEOM

My client is a leading Tier 1 multi-disciplinary consultancy, working on multiple iconic projects aross the globe. Currently we’re looking for Design Managers to help deliver one of the most ambitious projects in Saudi Arabia.Role OverviewThe Design Manager will be responsible for overseeing the entire architectural design process for various asset types related to a large-scale urban development project. This includes managing design for different asset types across the project, ensuring high standards and successful delivery. The Architect will operate with minimal supervision from senior leadership, working within a team to handle specific aspects of the project.This role includes managing architectural design for a neighborhood within the development, supporting Senior Design Managers in coordinating emerging designs from external consultants. The Design Manager will ensure design work aligns with scope, schedule, quality standards, and budget, and is in compliance with relevant project procedures. The role encompasses overseeing the design of a neighborhood, covering approximately 500,000 m² of assets, and contributing to design management across multiple neighborhoods and areas of specialism. The position is based on-site in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate design aspects, including real estate assets, non-common assets, façades, sustainability, and public spaces.
• Lead and review design efforts, ensuring alignment with project goals and requirements.
• Provide expertise and creative insights into design processes, supporting senior leadership.
• Organize and attend design coordination meetings and workshops.
• Ensure compliance with design requirements, project deliverables, regulations, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Assist in coordinating design interfaces between neighborhoods and key assets within the city.
• Work with cost consultants to ensure designs meet budget targets.
• Align the design with the project program and initial asset briefs, taking into account specialized areas of expertise.
• Maintain and manage design registers, including requests for information (RFIs), design budgets, and design reviews.
• Ensure that design briefs are accurately completed and adhered to across architecture and other disciplines.
• Coordinate design for facilities management with the relevant teams.
• Ensure design quality and coordination across different streams of the project.
• Liaise with delivery teams to integrate design aspects smoothly with project execution.

Core Competencies

• Coordination of design across various asset types, including real estate, sustainability, and public realm design.
• Active participation in design reviews, ensuring that designs meet the required standards and objectives.
• Strong understanding of development controls, regulatory requirements, and design performance metrics.
• Facilitate communication and design coordination between various project teams, including city planning and neighborhood integration.
• Collaborate with cost consultants to manage design within budget constraints.
• Manage and monitor project design timelines, ensuring alignment with the development program.
• Maintain up-to-date design registers and documentation, ensuring clarity and accountability across the project.

Cultural Fit & Values

• Embrace the project’s culture and values, acting with integrity and upholding high standards of professionalism.
• Adhere to the project’s policies, procedures, and controls to ensure compliance with internal and external regulations.
• Foster a collaborative and ethical working environment, with a strong focus on respect and transparency.

Experience & QualificationsKnowledge:

• Understanding of scope management and the ability to effectively communicate project interfaces.
• Familiarity with international standards, codes, and regulatory requirements in architectural design.
• Knowledge of sustainable design practices and principles.
• Full understanding of statutory authority requirements and submission processes.

Skills:

• Strong creative and design capabilities, with a focus on aesthetics and innovation.
• Excellent conceptual design and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think outside the box.
• Proficiency in design software such as Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Adobe Suite, Grasshopper, V-Ray, and others.
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• A methodical, detail-oriented approach to work and the ability to meet deadlines efficiently.

Experience:

• Over 10 years of post-graduate experience in architectural design and project management.
• Experience in a range of architectural sectors such as residential, commercial, public, healthcare, and education.
• Previous experience in the Middle East is highly desirable.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture (B.Arch or B.Sc) from an accredited institution.
• Postgraduate studies in Architecture are an advantage.
• International professional accreditations (e.g., RIBA, AIA, or equivalent).
• Sustainability certifications (e.g., LEED, PQP, or equivalent).

Rewards and Benefits:We offer an attractive package that includes:

• Competitive salary
• On-site accommodation (single status)
• Transportation allowance
• 22 calendar days of annual leave
• Medical and life insurance coverage
• Company gratuity scheme
• Discretionary bonus scheme
• Annual flight allowance to point of origin.

redfish solutions* promotes a culture where diversity is welcomed and celebrated. We embrace differences, whether they be social backgrounds, ethnicity, disability, gender, age, religion, sexuality and any other protected characteristic. We have an inclusive recruitment philosophy and will endeavour to support those applicants who may need adjustments in order to take part in the recruitment process. +44 (0)113 850 0111* if you require additional assistance.For the purposes of the Conduct Regulations 2003, when advertising permanent vacancies we are acting as an Employment Agency, and when advertising temporary/contract vacancies we are acting as an Employment Business.