Senior Urban Design Leader: Regeneration & Master Planning

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Leadership development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Principal Urban Designer to lead our urban design practice, shaping strategic master plans and public realm strategies for major regeneration projects across South Africa.

You will mentor a multidisciplinary team of designers and planners, collaborate with clients, authorities, and communities, and ensure projects are financially viable, technically feasible, and environmentally sustainable.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related field.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in urban design and planning, with leadership exposure.
• Proven track record leading complex urban design projects from inception to completion.
• Exceptional design skills and a strong portfolio.
• Thorough knowledge of South African planning legislation and public sector processes.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and GIS.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic vision and design development for large-scale urban planning and regeneration projects.
• Develop innovative urban design concepts and master plans responding to social, economic, and environmental contexts.
• Mentor a team of urban designers, planners, and landscape architects.
• Engage with clients, government authorities, community groups, and other stakeholders throughout the design process.
• Oversee detailed design guidelines, development frameworks, and public realm strategies.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site analyses, and impact assessments for urban development proposals.
• Represent the firm and advocate for sound urban design principles in public forums and consultations.
• Ensure projects are technically feasible, financially viable, and environmentally sustainable.
• Stay current with global trends in urbanism, smart cities, and resilient design.
• Contribute to business development and the growth of the urban design practice.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Urban Design/Planning

Tools

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

GIS

Job description

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Principal Urban Designer to lead our urban design practice, shaping strategic master plans and public realm strategies for major regeneration projects across South Africa.

You will mentor a multidisciplinary team of designers and planners, collaborate with clients, authorities, and communities, and ensure projects are financially viable, technically feasible, and environmentally sustainable.