Head of Design

Blake Anderson; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 500,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

A premier real estate consultancy in Dubai seeks a Head of Design to oversee design aspects of large-scale luxury projects. The ideal candidate will possess significant experience in managing design teams and an extensive background working on high-end projects in the UAE. This leadership role offers a competitive salary and the opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic real estate market.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Collaborative work environment

Opportunity to lead landmark projects

Qualifications

• 15-20 years of experience in large-scale luxury projects.
• At least 2 years in a senior leadership role.
• Significant experience in UAE luxury projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team of design professionals.
• Oversee design stages of luxury projects ensuring quality standards.
• Act as the central contact for design coordination.
• Establish design standards and quality control protocols.
• Manage the design process ensuring timely project delivery.

Skills

Multidisciplinary design management

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Architecture from a recognized university

Tools

Design and project management software

Job description

Overview

The Role Our client, a premier real estate developer in Dubai, is looking for a highly accomplished and visionary Head of Design to oversee all design aspects of their large-scale, luxury residential and hospitality projects in the region. This is a senior leadership position for a professional who can ensure the highest standards of design are upheld and delivered from concept through to completion. You will lead a multidisciplinary team of eight, ensuring seamless collaboration across architectural, structural, and MEP disciplines, from our external consultants. The ideal candidate will be an architect with a strong background in design management, a proven track record of delivering complex, luxury projects, and extensive knowledge of the local market. Arabic speaking would be advantageous

Responsibilities

• Design Leadership & Management: Lead, mentor, and manage a team of eight design professionals across various disciplines (Architectural, Structural, MEP).
• Design Oversight: Direct and oversee all design stages of large-scale, luxury residential and hospitality projects. Ensure all design outputs meet the highest standards of quality, aesthetics, and functionality.
• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Act as the central point of contact for design, ensuring seamless integration and coordination between architectural, structural, and MEP teams.
• Quality & Standards: Establish and enforce design standards and quality control protocols to ensure excellence in all project deliverables.
• Project Delivery: Manage the design process to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the client's exacting standards.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Effectively communicate with and manage relationships with senior leadership, external consultants, and other key stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving: Proactively identify and resolve complex design and coordination challenges throughout the project lifecycle.

Minimum Requirements

• Educational Background: A degree in Architecture from a reputable, internationally recognized university.
• Experience: 15-20 years of professional experience in the design and delivery of large-scale, luxury projects.
• At least 2 years in a senior leadership role, such as Head of Design, Senior Design Manager, or a similar Senior position.
• A strong and demonstrable track record of successfully managing multidisciplinary design teams.
• Significant experience working on large-scale luxury projects within the UAE.
• Technical Skills: Solid understanding of design principles across architectural, structural, and MEP disciplines.
• Proficiency in project management and design software.
• Soft Skills: Exceptional leadership and team-management abilities.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a keen attention to detail.
• Proven ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities effectively.

What We Offer

• An opportunity to lead the design of landmark luxury projects in one of the world\'s most dynamic real estate markets.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment.
• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• The chance to make a significant impact on the company\'s portfolio and reputation.

About the company

Blake Anderson is a boutique consultancy based in the UK, with a satellite office in Dubai. Specialising in Technical and Construction Recruitment, Blake Anderson provides a superior service to clients and candidates within the construction and technical sectors. We concentrate on placing professionals throughout the world, focusing mainly on the Middle East and Asia, drawing on both the global and local markets for highly qualified professionals. In order to attract the best talent, we invest in various high-end advertising mediums. With a database of 1,000\'s of candidates, our experienced consultants have a wealth of recruitment knowledge and have a consultative approach at all times, ensuring a second to none service.