Senior Design Manager: Dubai HQ Construction Lead

Architecture Social Limited; Dubai; On-site; AED 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Architecture Social Limited is seeking a Senior Design Manager to oversee construction-phase delivery of a major HQ development in Dubai. The role focuses on protecting the original architectural vision, ensuring technical solutions, finishes and construction details align with the approved design.

This site-based position requires extensive UAE experience and the ability to coordinate with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary teams to maintain design excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture.
• Minimum 15 years architectural experience; 20+ years preferred.
• Registered Architect status or equivalent accreditation desirable.
• Significant construction-phase experience on major commercial, HQ, 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 local authority approvals essential.
• International project experience and LEED-accredited developments advantageous.
• Strong stakeholder management, negotiation and decision-making skills.
• Availability to work a six-day week when required.
• UAE-based candidates preferred; relocation will be considered.
• Immediate availability or notice period of one month or less is highly desirable.

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

Skills

Design management

Stakeholder management

Construction-phase experience

UAE project experience

LEED knowledge

Negotiation/decision-making

Education

Architecture degree (B.Arch./M.Arch.)

Job description

Architecture Social Limited is seeking a Senior Design Manager to oversee construction-phase delivery of a major HQ development in Dubai. The role focuses on protecting the original architectural vision, ensuring technical solutions, finishes and construction details align with the approved design.

This site-based position requires extensive UAE experience and the ability to coordinate with clients, contractors and multidisciplinary teams to maintain design excellence.