Design Manager — Leisure & Buildings Leader (Abu Dhabi)

Zutari; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

Zutari in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead leisure, entertainment, and building projects. You will drive design from concept to construction docs, coordinating architectural, structural, and MEP teams for integrated, buildable solutions.

Applicants should have 7+ years total experience (5+ in design, 2+ as Design Manager), with a background in Structural or Architectural Engineering and familiarity with Abu Dhabi markets. BIM proficiency is a plus.

Qualifications

• Residence in Abu Dhabi is required.
• 7+ years total experience; 5+ in design and 2+ in a Design Manager role.
• Educational background in Structural or Architectural Engineering (preferred).
• Proven experience on leisure, entertainment, or large building projects.
• Experience with major consultancies or leading developers in Abu Dhabi.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project coordination skills.
• Proficiency in BIM platforms an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process from concept through detailed design to construction documentation.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams (architectural, structural, MEP) to ensure integrated, buildable solutions.
• Oversee and review design deliverables, drawings, and specifications for quality, accuracy, and compliance.
• 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 stakeholder relationships.
• Promote best practices in sustainable and innovative design aligned with Zutari’s values.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project coordination

Stakeholder management

Education

Structural or Architectural Engineering

Tools

BIM platforms

Job description

Zutari in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead leisure, entertainment, and building projects. You will drive design from concept to construction docs, coordinating architectural, structural, and MEP teams for integrated, buildable solutions.

Applicants should have 7+ years total experience (5+ in design, 2+ as Design Manager), with a background in Structural or Architectural Engineering and familiarity with Abu Dhabi markets. BIM proficiency is a plus.