Senior Design Manager - £1 Billion HQ Project

Architecture Social Limited; Dubai; On-site; AED 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Architecture Social Limited seeks a Senior Design Manager in Dubai to oversee the construction phase delivery of a major HQ development. You will protect the architectural vision, coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, and ensure design integrity from shop drawings to site delivery.

The role requires 15+ years of architectural experience, UAE project exposure, and strong stakeholder management. Availability for six-day weeks and relocation considerations may apply.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of architectural experience; 20+ years preferred.
• Registered Architect status or equivalent accreditation desirable.
• Significant construction‑phase experience on major commercial, HQ or mixed‑use developments.
• UAE project experience and knowledge of local authority approvals are essential.
• International project experience and LEED‑accredited developments advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Act as the architectural design team’s primary representative throughout construction.
• Safeguard the original design intent across all architectural packages and site activities.
• Review shop drawings, technical details, material submissions, finishes and mock‑ups.
• Resolve design conflicts and coordination issues without compromising architectural quality.
• Assess value‑engineering proposals and recommend design‑sensitive solutions.
• Undertake site inspections and monitor compliance with approved drawings and specifications.
• Coordinate with the client, contractor, PMC, supervision consultants and multidisciplinary teams.
• Support local authority matters, including coordination with Dubai Municipality.
• Contribute to sustainability objectives, including LEED Platinum and LEED Zero certification.
• Prepare technical reports, architectural reviews and recommendations for senior stakeholders.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Construction-phase experience

LEED knowledge

Architectural detailing

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture

Job description

A leading international architecture and engineering consultancy is seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager to oversee the construction phase delivery of a major £1 billing HQ development in Dubai.

The role will focus on protecting the original architectural vision, ensuring that technical solutions, materials, finishes and construction details remain aligned with the approved design.

Responsibilities:

• Act as the architectural design team’s primary representative throughout construction
• Safeguard the original design intent across all architectural packages and site activities
• Review shop drawings, technical details, material submissions, finishes and mock‑ups
• Resolve design conflicts and coordination issues without compromising architectural quality
• Assess value‑engineering proposals and recommend design‑sensitive solutions
• Undertake site inspections and monitor compliance with approved drawings and specifications
• Coordinate with the client, contractor, PMC, supervision consultants and multidisciplinary teams
• Support local authority matters, including coordination with Dubai Municipality
• Contribute to the project’s sustainability objectives, including LEED Platinum and LEED Zero certification
• Prepare technical reports, architectural reviews and recommendations for senior stakeholders

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
• At least 15 years of architectural experience, with 20+ years preferred
• Registered Architect status or equivalent accreditation is desirable
• Significant construction‑phase experience on major commercial, headquarters or mixed‑use developments
• Strong knowledge of architectural detailing, materials, finishes and construction methodologies
• Proven experience protecting design intent through project delivery
• UAE project experience and knowledge of local authority approvals are essential
• International project experience and exposure to LEED‑accredited developments are advantageous
• Strong stakeholder management, negotiation and decision‑making skills
• Availability to work a six‑day week when required
• UAE based candidates are preferred, although relocation will be considered
• Immediate availability or a notice period of one month or less is highly desirable

About the Practice:

This international consultancy delivers complex architecture and engineering projects across multiple sectors. It offers the opportunity to take a senior role on a high‑profile development, working closely with multidisciplinary teams and project stakeholders to maintain exceptional standards of design and technical delivery.