Director of Design Development

ArchiBat France Group; Dubai; On-site; AED 918,000 - 1,285,000; Full time

Job summary

ArchiBat France Group is seeking a Director of Design Development to lead the design for a landmark ultra-luxury hospitality and branded residential project in the Maldives. You will own the design vision from concept to completion, balancing brand integrity with buildability and commercial objectives.

Responsibilities include leading multidisciplinary teams across architecture, interiors, MEP, landscape, and more; coordinating master design programmes and BIM processes; managing budgets with

Qualifications

• 10+ years in design development for luxury hospitality and high-end residential projects.
• At least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Track record with branded residences, international hotel operators, and island resort developments.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies and BIM coordination.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and presentation skills.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture/Interior Design; RIBA/AIA registration advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Design Leadership: lead multidisciplinary teams and safeguard design intent.
• Coordination & Delivery: manage master design programme, BIM coordination, and RFIs.
• Commercial & Quality Control: work with cost consultants on budgets and VE.
• FF&E and Residences: oversee FF&E, OS&E, artwork, and residence specs.
• Stakeholder Management: liaise between developer, operators, brands, contractors.
• Team Leadership: build and mentor an in-house design and technical team.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication

Presentation skills

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture/Interior Design

RIBA/AIA registration advantageous

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit/BIM

Clash detection

Job description

About the RoleWe are seeking an accomplished Director of Design Development to lead the design of a landmark ultra-luxury hospitality and branded residential project in the Maldives. Acting as the owner’s design lead, you will steer the creative vision from concept through to completion, ensuring design integrity is balanced with functionality, buildability, and commercial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Design Leadership: Lead the multidisciplinary consultant team (architecture, interiors, MEP, landscape, marine, etc.) and safeguard the design intent in line with brand standards.

Coordination & Delivery: Manage the master design programme, BIM coordination, clash detection, and design-stage RFIs. Oversee all stages from concept to construction documentation.

Commercial & Quality Control: Work with cost consultants to manage budgets and value engineering without compromising luxury standards. Implement change management processes.

FF&E and Residences: Oversee the specification and procurement of FF&E, OS&E, and artwork. Define residence specifications and lead mock-up room approvals.

Stakeholder Management: Act as the primary design liaison between the developer, hotel operators, brand representatives, contractors, and Maldivian authorities.

Team Leadership: Build and mentor an in-house design and technical team.

Required profile

Key Requirements

Experience: 10+ years in design development for luxury hospitality and high‑end residential projects, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

Sector Expertise: Proven track record with branded residences, international hotel operators, and remote/island resort developments.

Technical Skills: Strong understanding of construction methodologies, AutoCAD, Revit/BIM, and clash detection. Sound knowledge of consultant appointments and value engineering.

Leadership: Exceptional stakeholder management, communication, and presentation skills. Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, multicultural environment.

Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a related field. RIBA/AIA registration is an advantage.

What’s on Offer

Competitive salary and performance‑based incentives.

The opportunity to work on a prestigious, landmark ultra‑luxury project.

A collaborative and innovative work environment with professional growth opportunities.