Design Manager

Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading professional services firm in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced Design Manager to provide strategic design leadership and oversee complex design processes. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related field and at least 8 years of design management experience, preferably in the UAE. Strong leadership, client management skills, and proficiency in design software are essential. Join our team to help shape a brighter future in real estate.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of design management experience, preferably in the UAE or GCC region.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale commercial projects.
• Knowledge of local building codes and regulations in Abu Dhabi/UAE.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive design leadership across all project phases.
• Lead creative direction and strategic design oversight.
• Manage client design presentations and approval processes.
• Monitor budgets, forecasts, and expenditure.
• Implement robust quality management processes.
• Participate in regular progress meetings with clients.

Skills

Leadership

Client relationship management

Communication

Budget management

Design software proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Engineering

Job description

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

About JLL

We’re JLL—a leading professional services and investment management firm specializing in real estate. We have operations in over 80 countries and a workforce of over 92,000 individuals around the world who help real estate owners, occupiers and investors achieve their business ambitions. As a global Fortune 500 company, we also have an inherent responsibility to drive sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

That’s why we’re committed to our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world. We’re using the most advanced technology to create rewarding opportunities, amazing spaces and sustainable real estate solutions for our clients, our people and our communities.

Our core values of teamwork, ethics and excellence are also fundamental to everything we do and we’re honored to be recognized with awards for our success by organizations both globally and locally.

Creating a diverse and inclusive culture where we all feel welcomed, valued and empowered to achieve our full potential is important to who we are today and where we’re headed in the future. And we know that unique backgrounds, experiences and perspectives help us think bigger, spark innovation and succeed together.

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements below. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to provide strategic design leadership and operational oversight for our projects in Abu Dhabi. This role requires a seasoned professional who can manage complex design processes while serving as the primary liaison between design teams, clients, and project delivery stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Administration Provide comprehensive design leadership across all project phases, from concept through completion. Serve as the primary point of contact between design teams, client stakeholders, and project delivery teams, ensuring seamless coordination and communication throughout the project lifecycle.
• Design Direction & Quality Oversight Lead creative direction and strategic design oversight, reviewing and approving all design deliverables to ensure they meet the highest standards. Maintain strict compliance with brand guidelines and project requirements while conducting regular design team meetings and progress reviews to keep projects on track.
• Client & Stakeholder Engagement Manage client design presentations and approval processes, facilitating design review meetings with internal stakeholders. Oversee the integration of design feedback and manage revision cycles effectively. Coordinate closely with consultants and external partners to ensure collaborative project delivery.
• Project Coordination & Financial Management Work alongside the Employer and their appointed Project Management Consultant and Cost Consultant/Quantity Surveyor to monitor budgets, forecasts, and expenditure. Actively support cost control initiatives, value engineering exercises, and benchmarking activities to optimize project outcomes.
• Quality Assurance & Interface Management Implement robust quality management processes to ensure all deliverables meet specified standards and client expectations. Effectively manage interfaces between design teams, contractors, suppliers, and Client Representatives to maintain project momentum and quality.
• Governance & Communication Participate in regular progress meetings with clients, Project Managers, and key stakeholders, providing clear updates on design progress and addressing any challenges proactively.
• Project Completion & Handover Oversee comprehensive project handover processes, including closeout procedures and documentation review. Ensure as-built drawings, O&M manuals, warranties, and final documentation are complete and accurate. Verify that all contractual deliverables are satisfied prior to project completion.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Engineering, or related field
• Minimum 8 years of design management experience, preferably in the UAE or GCC region
• Proven track record in managing large-scale commercial projects
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities
• Excellent client relationship management skills
• Experience with budget management and cost control processes
• Proficiency in design software and project management tools
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Knowledge of local building codes and regulations in Abu Dhabi/UAE

What you can expect from us

We succeed together and believe the best inspire the best, so we invest in supporting each other, learning together and celebrating our success.

Our Total Rewards program reflects our commitment to helping you achieve your career ambitions, recognizing your contributions, investing in your well-being and providing competitive benefits and pay.

We can’t wait to see where your ambitions take you at JLL. Apply today!

Location: Abu Dhabi, ARE

Equal Opportunity Employer

Jones Lang LaSalle (“JLL”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process – including the online application and/or overall selection process – you may email us at [e-mail]. Please direct any other general recruiting inquiries to our Contact Us page.