Senior Design Manager/Lead Architect – Stadium

Mace Group; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction consultancy is seeking a results-driven professional to manage design resources for high-profile projects, including stadium development. The role requires a degree and over 12 years of experience, ideally in stadium or sports venues. The successful candidate will oversee operations, influence procurement strategies, and advocate for sustainability throughout project delivery. This role is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and offers an inclusive and collaborative work environment.

Qualifications

• 12+ years postgraduate professional experience in construction or design.
• Experience in Stadium, Events or Sports venue projects.
• Chartered or professional membership is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage design resources for project delivery.
• Oversee daily operations and act as design focal point.
• Influence procurement strategies and drive process improvements.
• Present management review data to project teams.

Skills

Project Management

Design Management

Stakeholder Collaboration

Sustainability Advocacy

Education

Degree qualification in relevant subject

Job description

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 a unique opportunity to contribute to the successful delivery of world‑class assets supporting major sporting events, including the development of multiple stadiums. Mace is at the forefront of this landmark program with a highly motivated client organisation and seeks results‑driven professionals to join our exceptional teams, driving excellence at every stage of these high‑profile projects.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Lead and manage design resources, ensuring delivery of business plan outcomes on time and within budget.
• Oversee daily operations and act as the focal point for all design‑related matters.
• Present KPIs and management review data to project and leadership teams.
• Support business development, work‑winning activities, and training initiatives.
• Ensure governance and management systems are adhered to across the project lifecycle.
• Influence procurement strategies, contractual frameworks, and drive process improvements.
• Collaborate with PMO and stakeholders to ensure coordinated deliverables and technical excellence.
• Champion sustainability and net zero carbon goals throughout project delivery.

You’ll need to have:

• Degree qualification in the relevant subject essential.
• 12+ years postgraduate professional experience is essential.
• Stadium, Events or Sports venue experience is essential.
• Chartered or professional membership is an advantage.

Our values

Safety first - Going home safe and well:

You will champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in your team and local health and safety rules or regulations of the work you’re involved with.

Client focus - Deliver on our promise:

You will lead on the cost management services including estimating, procurement and cost planning, owning the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and building long term relationships with your clients.

Integrity - Always do the right thing:

You will lead operations that are fiscally and ethically viable, influencing the achievement of business objectives that align with business and legislative compliance obligations.

Create opportunity - For our people to excel:

You will mentor, coach, and develop teams, demonstrating effective leadership to ensure excellence in delivery against plans, championing a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities.

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.

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