Design Manager

Zutari; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

Zutari is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead the delivery of leisure, entertainment, and building projects in Abu Dhabi. As part of the team, you will manage the design process, coordinate teams, and ensure the delivery of high-quality design outcomes.

Ideal candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of experience, with at least 5 years in design and 2 years in a managerial role. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential, along with a background in Structural or Architectural Engineering.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years’ total experience, with at least 5 years in design and 2 years in a Design Manager role.
• Proven experience on leisure, entertainment, or large building projects.
• Familiarity with major consultancies or leading developers within Abu Dhabi.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process from concept to construction documentation.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams to ensure integrated, buildable solutions.
• Oversee design deliverables for quality, accuracy, and compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project Coordination

BIM Platforms

Education

Structural or Architectural Engineering

Job description

Role Overview

We are currently seeking an experienced Design Manager to join our Abu Dhabi team, leading the delivery of leisure, entertainment, and buildings projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process from concept through detailed design to construction documentation.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams (architectural, structural, MEP) to ensure fully integrated, buildable solutions.
• Oversee and review design deliverables, drawings, and specifications for quality, accuracy, and compliance with project requirements.
• Manage design schedules, budgets, and risks, and report progress to senior leadership and clients.
• Facilitate design workshops, resolve technical challenges, and support value engineering initiatives.
• Liaise with clients, consultants, contractors, to secure timely approvals and maintain strong stakeholder relationships.
• Promote best practices in sustainable and innovative design aligned with Zutari’s values and project aspirations.

Requirements

• Must currently reside in Abu Dhabi (applications from outside Abu Dhabi cannot be considered).
• Minimum 7 years’ total experience, including at least 5 years in design and 2 years in a Design Manager role.
• Educational background in Structural or Architectural Engineering (preferred).
• Proven experience on leisure, entertainment, or large building projects.
• Familiarity with working for major consultancies or with leading developers within Abu Dhabi.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project coordination skills.
• Proficiency in BIM platforms is an advantage.

We believe that a diverse workforce is a key to our business success. We seek the best people for our jobs based on their skills, qualifications and experience. We embrace the principle of equal opportunity in employment, and we work towards eliminating all forms of unlawful discrimination in our employment practices.