Global Head of Design

Alpha Leadership Co.; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Alpha Leadership Co. seeks a Global Head of Design to serve as the creative authority and strategic leader across its design practice.

You will define the firm’s global architectural vision, elevate design standards for giga-projects and master plans, and champion design excellence aligned with Vision 2030. You will mentor an international team of design directors, drive digital transformation with AI-assisted design, BIM, and VR/AR, and steer high-profile competitions and client pitches to

Qualifications

• Degree in Architecture or Urban Design; professional registration preferred.
• 20–25 years in top-tier global architecture or multidisciplinary firms.
• 8–10 years in executive design leadership (e.g., Design Director, Partner, Head of Design).
• Portfolio of large-scale, iconic, award-winning developments (master planning, mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, or civic).
• Regional experience in Saudi Arabia or GCC with Vision 2030 knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the firm’s global architectural design vision.
• Oversee major concepts from inception to execution with rigorous review.
• Advise on client engagement, pitches, and government collaborations.
• Mentor international design directors and teams across offices.
• Drive digital design adoption: AI, parametric workflows, BIM, VR/AR.

Skills

Executive design leadership

Strategic vision

Studio leadership

Design excellence

Digital transformation

Client advisory

Education

Architecture or Urban Design degree

Professional registration (RIBA/AIA)

Tools

BIM tools

AI-assisted design

VR/AR tools

Job description

A leading civil engineering and design firm in Saudi Arabia is seeking a Global Head of Design to serve as the creative authority and strategic leader across its design practice. This role will define the firm\'s global architectural vision, elevate design standards across giga-projects and master plans, drive digital design transformation, and champion design excellence aligned with Vision 2030.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Vision: Lead and define the firm\'s overarching design philosophy, raising its international brand profile across architectural, urban, interior, and landscape design.
• Design Excellence: Oversee major project concepts from inception to execution, establishing rigorous peer-review standards and integrating modern vernacular with sustainable practices.
• Client & BD Advisory: Act as the primary design spokesperson in high-stakes pitches, design competitions, and meetings with government entities and giga-project stakeholders.
• Studio Leadership: Mentor and build a high-performing international team of design directors, architects, and planners across regional and global offices.
• Digital Innovation: Drive the adoption of AI-assisted design, parametric workflows, VR/AR, and advanced BIM tools to enhance studio output and efficiency.

Key Requirements:

• Degree in Architecture or Urban Design; RIBA, AIA, or equivalent professional registration preferred.
• Experience: 20-25 years in top-tier global architecture or multidisciplinary firms, with at least 8-10 years in executive design leadership (e.g., Design Director, Partner, Head of Design).
• Track Record: Proven portfolio of large-scale, iconic, award-winning developments (master planning, mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, or civic).
• Regional Insight: Strong experience within Saudi Arabia or the GCC region, with working knowledge of Vision 2030 frameworks and local cultural contexts.