Design Director Vertical Assets

WSP in the Middle East; Jeddah; On-site; SAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering company is seeking an experienced Design Director in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to lead a landmark master-planned project. The candidate must have over 20 years of experience in architecture or urban design, with a proven track record in large-scale projects. This role involves overseeing project design, managing coordination, ensuring compliance, and driving innovation. If you are a skilled leader with a passion for impactful design, this opportunity offers the chance to shape significant urban developments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience in architecture, urban design, or related fields.
• Proven experience delivering large-scale master-planned projects, including vertical assets.
• Deep understanding of design processes, project phasing, and construction interface.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the design strategy and execution for the entire project lifecycle.
• Manage and coordinate multiple workstreams, including Local Design Consultants and internal teams.
• Ensure design integration across infrastructure, landscape, architecture, and vertical assets.

Skills

Leadership and coordination skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder management skills

Education

Degree in Architecture, Urban Design, or related discipline

Job description

Job Description

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 master‑planned project in Jeddah. The scope includes a 10 km 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.

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.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience in architecture, urban design, or related fields.
• Proven experience delivering large‑scale master‑planned 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.