Expert Sports Architect

Mace Group; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction consultancy is seeking an experienced expert sports architect to lead major sports facility projects in the Riyadh Region of Saudi Arabia. The role involves overseeing the design and development of stadiums, ensuring compliance with FIFA regulations, and collaborating with clients and stakeholders. Candidates should possess over 15 years of experience in sports architecture, strong design management skills, and expertise in CAD/BIM. Join a team that values safety, integrity, and client focus while delivering high-quality facilities.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in sports projects.
• Expert in managing stadium design projects with a focus on FIFA regulations.
• Proficient in design methodologies and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Design and oversee development of football-specific facilities.
• Collaborate with clients and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with international standards.

Skills

FIFA compliance expertise

Design management

Stakeholder interaction

Leadership and team motivation

Attention to detail

Education

Degree in architecture

Tools

CAD/BIM

Job description

Position status: This opportunity is for a secured role that is due to commence in January subject to approval. If you would like to be considered as we progress with this position, please click to apply.

Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.

The project

This is an opportunity to be involved in the delivery of major sports stadiums and associated projects in Saudi Arabia. Mace is currently delivering the programme which will require high‑calibre and experienced people to lead teams throughout each phase of the project.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Design and develop football‑specific sports facilities, including stadiums, training centres, and multi‑sport grounds.
• Collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and professionals to align designs with user and community needs.
• Ensure compliance with international codes, standards, and FIFA regulations.
• Conduct research to integrate best practices and regulatory requirements into facility design.
• Oversee construction to ensure alignment with design, schedule, and budget.
• Coordinate with engineers and contractors to ensure smooth project execution.
• Maintain clear and consistent communication with clients and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
• Demonstrate architectural leadership in coordinating multi‑disciplinary teams for complex, fast‑track projects.
• Lead design reviews to ensure timely coordination across specialist disciplines.
• Apply current methodologies and tools for effective design review within EPMO frameworks.
• Respond to consultant and specialist requests with professionalism and sensitivity.
• Ensure accuracy in data validation, reporting, and analysis with strong attention to detail.
• Work closely with design managers, consultants, and internal teams to monitor and improve design status.
• Lead teams with accountability, motivating members and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Promote creativity, innovation, and effective communication to enhance team performance and project outcomes.

You’ll need to have:

• Serves as the designated expert sports architect, leading stadium projects with a focus on achieving FIFA compliance and delivering high‑quality sports facilities.
• Applies advanced design management methodologies, overseeing design reviews and ensuring seamless coordination across architectural, engineering, and specialist disciplines.
• Demonstrates strong capability in identifying design challenges, implementing mitigation strategies, and driving value engineering to optimise stadium architectural outcomes.
• Successfully interacts with key stakeholders including design consultants, project managers, and procurement teams, fostering collaboration and alignment throughout project phases.
• Holds a degree in architecture with over 15 years of experience in sports projects, proficient in CAD/BIM, knowledgeable in industry codes, LEED/sustainability principles, and committed to promoting safety, diversity, and innovation.

Please note:

Obtaining a visa in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is subject to a criminal record check, qualifications and may encounter age restrictions.

Our values

Safety first – Going home safe and well: We champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in every team.

Client focus – Deliver on our promise: We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and build long‑term relationships with our clients.

Integrity – Always do the right thing: We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.

Create opportunity – For our people to excel: We champion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop.

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.

We are also open to discussing part‑time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable within the role.

Please remember the Employee Referral Scheme and if there are any talented people you can recommend, just click the button and use the ‘Refer a friend’ feature found within the relevant job.