Design Director

WSP; Jeddah; On-site; SAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering firm is seeking an experienced Design Director in Jeddah to lead the design delivery of a landmark masterplanned project. With over 20 years in architecture or urban design, the ideal candidate will manage multidisciplinary teams and drive innovation while ensuring integration across various design aspects. This challenging role demands strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience in architecture, urban design, or related fields.
• Proven experience delivering large-scale masterplanned projects, including vertical assets.
• Experience working in the Middle East is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the design strategy and execution for the entire project lifecycle.
• Manage and coordinate multiple workstreams, including Local Design Consultants and international partners.
• Maintain alignment with project vision, client expectations, and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Design processes knowledge

Education

Degree in Architecture

Advanced qualifications in related discipline

Job description

Overview

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs?

At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

We are seeking a highly experienced Design Director with over 20 years of industry expertise to lead the design delivery of a landmark masterplanned project in Jeddah. The scope includes a 10km canal and a series of vertical assets, requiring coordination across multiple disciplines and stakeholders.

This is a challenging and high-impact role suited for a visionary leader with a proven track record in delivering complex, large-scale urban developments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience in architecture, urban design, or related fields.
• Proven experience delivering large-scale masterplanned projects, including vertical assets.
• Strong leadership and coordination skills across multidisciplinary teams.
• Deep understanding of design processes, project phasing, and construction interface.
• Experience working in the Middle East is preferred.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Degree in Architecture, Urban Design, or related discipline; advanced qualifications are a plus.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the design strategy and execution for the entire project lifecycle.
• Manage and coordinate multiple workstreams, including Local Design Consultants (LDCs), international partners, and internal teams.
• Ensure design integration across infrastructure, landscape, architecture, and vertical assets.
• Maintain alignment with project vision, client expectations, and regulatory requirements.
• Drive innovation and design excellence while balancing functionality, sustainability, and cost.
• Review and approve design deliverables at all stages.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement, including government entities, developers, and consultants.
• Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies throughout the design process.