Senior Design Manager - Real Estate Developer

Michael Page; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable recruitment firm is seeking a Senior Design Manager based in the United Arab Emirates. In this role, you will lead residential and mixed-use projects, ensuring design quality and compliance with specifications. The ideal candidate should have a degree in Architecture and proven experience in residential design. This role offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment and promote innovation in project delivery.

Benefits

Collaborative work environment

Growth and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Registered architect preferred with proven experience in residential design.
• Commercial awareness and ability to work in fast-paced environments.
• Strong technical knowledge in specifications and detailing.

Responsibilities

• Lead design development and coordination with external consultants.
• Prepare and review models and layouts for decision making.
• Ensure compliance with local codes and project specifications.

Skills

SketchUp proficiency

Residential design experience

Construction methodologies knowledge

Strong communication skills

Education

Degree in Architecture

Job description

The Senior Design Manager will lead residential and mixed-use projects from concept design, massing, and modeling through detailed design and authority approvals, ensuring technical quality, compliance, and buildability. This hands‑on role suits an experienced architect who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and can manage consultants, specifications, and design delivery under pressure.

Client Details

Our client delivers exceptional projects and innovative solutions. They are committed to excellence and are looking for a professional to contribute to their ongoing success.

Responsibilities

• Lead concept design, massing studies, and feasibility modeling aligned with development and commercial objectives.
• Prepare and review SketchUp models, layouts, and design options to support internal decision‑making and investor presentations.
• Manage and coordinate external consultants (architects, engineers, specialists) to ensure design intent, quality, and timelines are met.
• Drive design development and technical coordination, ensuring compliance with local codes, authority requirements, and project specifications.
• Review and control design documentation, specifications, materials, and finishes, ensuring buildability and cost efficiency.
• Monitor and report design progress, risks, and issues to senior management and development leadership.
• Support value engineering without compromising design quality or brand positioning.
• Operate effectively under tight deadlines and high‑pressure conditions typical of a growing developer platform.

Job Offer

• Opportunity to work within a forward‑thinking organization in the property industry.
• Collaborative and professional work environment promoting growth and development.

Qualifications

• Degree in Architecture; registered architect preferred.
• Proven experience in residential design and real estate development (developer or consultant‑side exposure).
• Strong technical knowledge of specifications, detailing, and construction methodologies.
• Advanced proficiency in SketchUp; experience with concept visualization and massing essential.
• Commercially aware, decisive, and comfortable working in a lean, entrepreneurial environment.
• Strong communicator with the ability to translate design intent into clear technical outcomes.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career as a Senior Design Manager, apply today to join this exciting opportunity in the property sector!