Project Director – Architecture

Role:                           Project Director

Location:                    Dubai, UAE

Company: A multidisciplinary Architecture and Planning firm offering a unique portfolio of architecture, planning and Design. The company specializes in Mixed-Use (Hospitality / Residential / Commercial) Ultra Luxury and High-Rise Development in Dubai.

Job Description: The Project Director is a senior leadership role within our architectural company, responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of architectural projects from inception to completion. This position requires exceptional leadership, organizational, and communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of architectural design, construction processes, and project management.

Reports to                    Founder / Executive Partner

Responsible for           Successful Project Delivery-technical, program, financials

Required Skills

Strategic Thinking:

• Ability to develop and implement long-term strategies to achieve project objectives.

Leadership:

• Proven experience in leading multidisciplinary teams.

Communication:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Project Management:

• Mastery of project management methodologies and software, including Contracts Management, Change Management, Program, Scope.

Financial Acumen:

• Strong understanding of budgeting, financial reporting, and risk management.

Technical Proficiency:

• Familiarity with architectural design software and tools.
• The Projects Director will lead the development of a mixed-use ultra-luxury high-rise project in the heart of Dubai. This role is responsible for strategizing and overseeing the entire project lifecycle, from design to handover. The Projects Director will report directly to the Founder and Executive

Partner and will also support the Managing Director in establishing project delivery frameworks for the office.

Personal Traits:

• Highly organized and detail oriented.
• Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Cultural sensitivity, especially in a diverse and international setting like Dubai.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Project Milestones: Meeting or exceeding all project milestones on time and within budget.
• Team Performance: Effective management and utilization of the project team.
• Client Satisfaction: Maintaining a high level of client satisfaction throughout the project.
• Risk Management: Proactively identifying and mitigating project risks.
• Financial Management: Ensuring the project stays within budget while meeting quality standards.

Key Responsibilities and Objectives:

Project Strategy and Planning:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive project strategy, including design, tender, and supervision phases.
• Set and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure project objectives are met.

Stakeholder Management:

• Manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including clients, other consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Facilitate effective communication between all parties involved in the project.

Team Leadership:

• Lead and manage the project team, including architects, engineers, and other specialists.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback.

Project Management:

• Review contracted scope and ensure deliverables are met.
• Plan milestone submissions.
• Identify scope creep / variations and resolve upstream and downstream.
• Implement effective Change Management.
• Financial Management:
• Develop and manage project budgets.
• Monitor financial performance and adjust as necessary to ensure profitability.

Risk Management:

• Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

Support to Managing Director:

• Assist the Managing Director in developing and implementing project delivery frameworks for the office.
• Provide strategic insights to improve overall project delivery processes.

Key Duties:

• Oversee the design phase, ensuring it aligns with client expectations and project objectives.
• Direct design team (vertical management)
• Collaborate with other stakeholders (lateral management)
• Assist in the tender process, including selection of contractors and negotiation of contracts.
• Supervise the construction phase to ensure quality and adherence to timelines.
• Conduct regular site visits and project reviews.
• Prepare and present regular project updates to the Founder and Executive Partner.
• Collaborate with the Managing Director to align project strategies with overall company objectives.
• This job description is intended to outline the primary responsibilities and qualifications for this role.
• It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and requirements. The Projects Director may be required to perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture or a related field.
• Minimum experience of 25 years overall, 15 years UAE, 12 years in a Leadership
• Experience in delivering mixed-use high-rise projects experience/Hospitality Projects.
• Proven track record of successful project management in the architecture industry.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools.
• In-depth knowledge of architectural design principles, construction methods, and materials.
• Familiarity with relevant codes, regulations, and industry standards.
• Has led a team of a minimum of 10 or more.