Senior Design Manager

Cognita Schools; Dubai; On-site; AED 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

Cognita Schools seeks a Senior Design Manager to lead the design of educational facilities in Dubai. The ideal candidate will drive the project lifecycle, from concept to execution, ensuring quality and innovation. This role involves close collaboration with stakeholders and offers an exciting opportunity to shape modern learning environments within a globally respected education group.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in architectural design, 3+ in senior leadership.
• Professional licensure (RIBA, AIA, or equivalent) preferred.
• Strong portfolio of large-scale projects and design excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead multidisciplinary design teams across multiple projects.
• Monitor budgets and resource allocation to optimize performance.
• Champion innovative and sustainable design solutions.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Education

Bachelor's and Master's degree in Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Rhino

Job description

Bachelor of Technology/Engineering (Computers)

Nationality: Any Nationality

Vacancy: 1 Vacancy

Job Description

We are looking for a Senior Design Manager to join our growing team in Dubai. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned professional with a proven track record of delivering complex school development and educational facility projects across the region. You'll lead the full project lifecycle, from initial concept and stakeholder engagement through to detailed design, construction, and final handover.

Responsibilities: Design Leadership & Strategy

• Champion innovative, functional, and aesthetic design solutions aligned with client needs and organizational vision.
• Drive creative direction and design quality across all stages of development.
• Define project requirements in collaboration with school stakeholders and educational authorities.

Design Management & Execution

• Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams across multiple projects.
• Ensure timely delivery of design solutions within scope and budget.
• Support business development and operations through collaborative project execution.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Act as the primary liaison for clients, consultants, contractors, and ministries.
• Lead design reviews and regulatory presentations with confidence and clarity.
• Maintain consistent communication of design intent across all project phases.

Quality Control & Documentation

• Review and validate all drawings, specifications, and design documentation.
• Implement rigorous quality standards and sustainability benchmarks.
• Ensure compliance with regional codes, safety standards, and best practices.

Budget & Resource Management

• Monitor budgets and resource allocation to optimize project performance.
• Ensure your team is equipped with the tools and talent to succeed.
• Track milestones and proactively resolve project challenges.

Innovation & Sustainability

• Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies.
• Integrate green building practices and future-ready design into every project.

Required Skills & Experience

• Bachelor's and Master's degree in Architecture or related field.
• Professional licensure (RIBA, AIA, or equivalent) preferred.
• LEED or sustainability certification is a plus.
• PMP or project management certification desirable.
• Minimum 10 years in architectural design with at least 3 in a senior leadership role.
• Demonstrated success delivering large-scale education or institutional projects.
• Strong portfolio showcasing relevant design excellence across sectors.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, and related software.
• Deep knowledge of building codes, construction methodologies, and sustainable design principles.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects in a dynamic environment.

At Cognita, we’re not just building schools, we’re shaping futures. This role offers the chance to:

• Lead the design of innovative, future-ready learning environments.
• Drive impactful projects that support regional growth and educational excellence.
• Collaborate with passionate professionals in a globally respected education group.
• Be part of a purpose-driven, ambitious, and forward-thinking organization.

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