Studio Director

Egis Group; Dubai; On-site; AED 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent architecture firm in Dubai is seeking a Director to lead its architectural studios. This full-time position requires a minimum of 20 years of experience and a professional degree in Architecture. The ideal candidate will provide overall leadership, develop strategic plans, ensure design quality, and maintain client relationships. Responsibilities include overseeing project delivery, financial management, and mentoring staff. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional ready to shape innovative architectural solutions in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience in architecture.
• Professional degree (Masters or Bachelors) in Architecture from an accredited program.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and direction for architectural studios.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for business objectives.
• Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Ensure high standards of design quality and innovation.
• Oversee multiple project deliveries.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Planning

Client Relations

Design Oversight

Financial Management

Education

Professional degree in Architecture

Job description

The main duties of the Director include but are not limited to:

Leadership & Studio Management

• Provide overall leadership and direction for the architectural studios daily operations ensuring a seamless workflow across all architectural projects.
• Mentor and inspire a team of architects, designers and support staff fostering a culture of creativity, innovation and excellence.
• Establish and implement studio processes, procedures and best practices to ensure efficient project execution.
• Provide strategic direction for the studios design vision ensuring alignment with company goals and industry trends.
• Manage resource allocation ensuring the right talent is assigned to projects based on their skills and project requirements.
• Oversee recruitment, training and professional development of studio staff.
• Foster a collaborative team environment providing guidance and support to project teams.
• Guide architects, senior architects, design managers, associates & directors in achieving KPIs quality objectives and performance review.

Strategic Planning

• Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve the studios business objectives including growth, profitability and market positioning.
• Manage the studios finances including budgeting, forecasting and ensuring projects are delivered within financial constraints.
• Help develop pricing strategies for architectural services and ensure competitive pricing while maintaining profitability.

Client Relations & Business Development

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, consultants and contractors understanding their needs and ensuring their expectations are met or exceeded.
• Act as the primary point of contact for major projects ensuring client satisfaction and managing expectations.
• Lead client presentations and design workshops to effectively communicate design concepts and project progress.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities including networking, proposal development and presentations to potential clients.
• Support the acquisition of new projects by cultivating relationships within the UAE’s architectural and real estate sectors.

Design Oversight

• Ensure the highest standards of design quality and innovation across all projects providing creative direction and guidance to the design team.
• Supervise the design process from conceptual development through to final implementation ensuring high-quality, innovative and practical design solutions.
• Ensure that designs comply with local regulations, building codes, sustainability requirements and client expectations.
• Review and approve design documentation including drawings, models, presentations and specifications to maintain design consistency and quality.
• Conduct regular design reviews and site visits to monitor project progress and resolve any design-related issues or challenges.
• Promote sustainable design practices and ensure the studio adheres to green building standards (e.g. LEED, Estidama).

Project Oversight & Delivery

• Oversee the management of multiple projects ensuring they are completed on time, within budget and to the highest standards of quality.
• Manage project delivery timelines, milestones and budget forecasts in coordination with project managers and other departments.
• Track the performance and financial health of projects ensuring that all deliverables are met and resources are used efficiently.
• Implement risk management strategies to address potential issues that could impact project delivery.
• Provide guidance on the coordination of technical and design teams to ensure the successful execution of complex projects.
• Ensure all projects comply with local building codes, regulations and standards managing the submission of necessary documentation for approvals.
• Implement and maintain quality control processes to ensure the consistency and excellence of design and project delivery.

Financial Management

• Oversee the financial performance of the studio including budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting ensuring projects are delivered within budget and profitability targets are met.
• Approve studio expenditures and monitor costs associated with project delivery ensuring that projects stay within budget.

Industry Networking

• Stay abreast of the latest design trends, technological advancements and market opportunities within the architecture industry.
• Represent the firm at industry events, conferences and forums enhancing the firm’s visibility and reputation.
• Promote the studios work through award submissions, publications and design exhibitions.
• Foster relationships with industry influencers, potential partners and collaborators.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience.
• Professional degree (Masters or Bachelors) in Architecture from an accredited program.

Remote Work

No

Employment Type

Full-time