Senior Design Manager (Architecture)

Overview

We are seeking a visionary and experienced Senior Design Manager to join our Project and Development Services team at Knight Frank Middle East. This key leadership role will oversee the architectural design and planning phases of various real estate projects, ensuring innovative and sustainable design solutions that align with client objectives and industry standards. The ideal candidate will bring extensive architectural expertise, project management skills, and a proven track record in delivering complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day operational aspects of the project(s) “end to end” and overview the team’s projects and ensure client satisfaction on all projects.

  
  

• Lead the architectural design process from concept development through to completion.

  
  

• Coordinate with cross-functional teams including architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants to define project goals and design requirements.

  
  

• Provide strategic design direction and innovative solutions that enhance project outcomes and client satisfaction.

  
  

• Lead the team to deliver accurate, timely, and compliant project deliverables for all pre/post contract services Including Design and Project management.

  
  

• Actively ensure that all deliverables issued by the team are in compliance with the International and National Standards and best practice.

  
  

• Ensure designs adhere to local regulations, building codes, and sustainability standards.

  
  

• Manage and procure the company's agreements, client/vendor agreements, company/vendor and supplier agreements and framework agreements. Monitor adherence to policies and procedures regarding internal governance and controls and KPIs. 

  
  

• Deliver to the scope of services as contracted with Client’s whilst managing the firm’s exposure.

  
  

• Keep abreast of regulatory changes affecting development requirements to take advantage of or compensate for the changes which may impact projects.

  
  

• Manage/Assist on all Design, construction, scheduling, commercial, procurement, risk, health, and safety management activities conducted by the team.

  
  

• Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, managing schedules, budgets, and resources effectively.

  
  

• Monitor project progress, resolve design issues, and ensure timely delivery of milestones.

  
  

• Conduct regular site visits and inspections to ensure design integrity and quality control.

  
  

• Manage/Assist on all Procurement Activities including prequalification’s, tendering and evaluation.

  
  

• Actively lead/ Participate in Contracts management and Scope management.

  
  

• Handle tracking of Material and Equipment ordering & delivery status.

  
  

• Prepare documents for uploading in project document controlling platforms and Manage all DC systems in association with Team assigned DC.

  
  

• Manage Close Out Documentation & O&M Manuals.

  
  

• Participate in and manage all QA/QC procedures set forward by Head of Construction.

  
  

• Manage and update project logs, issue client reports.

  
  

• Work closely with clients, design teams and contractors to optimize solutions. Act as the primary point of contact for clients regarding design-related matters.

  
  

• Demonstrate a track record in delivering high quality services from inception to completion,

  
  

• Manage pre contract Scope including reviewing technical specification, sections of BOQs, handle tender query responses, manage the PQQ process with support and input into value engineering at each design stage,

  
  

• Manage post contract (if needed) including being strong in construction management and progress tracking, contract administration, comfortable on-site walks with project teams, prepare weekly reports, draft monthly reports and weekly dashboards.

  
  

• Other tasks as required.

  
  

Skills and Qualifications

• Minimum of a Degree Qualification in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Project management or equivalent. Preference to hold a Master’s degree in similar fields

  
  

• 10 years’ experience in similar industry, at least 5 years in the Middle East

  
  

• At least 5 years in a leadership role and 10 years in a Project or Cost management role

  
  

• Major international project experience is essential

  
  

• Must have PMC/PMO experience within a reputable PMC International firm

  
  

• Having a structured approach to problem solving with a natural inclination for planning strategy and tactics

  
  

• Fundamental understanding of financial modelling and budgeting of P&DS services

  
  

• Broad background of project management and workplace and different design services

  
  

• Strong numerical and analytical skills

  
  

• Extensive experience managing complex projects on a global level

  
  

• Great people management skills with an ability to interact with executive level external and internal clients.

  
  

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with different international cultures.

  
  

• Strong leadership and employee management skills

  
  

• Understanding of regional business culture and regulations

  
  

• The ability to understand and make use of computers and information technology (Knight Frank internal systems)

  
  

• Certifications and Licenses: Professional Memberships are an advantage but not essential (RIBA, RICS, CIOB, C.Eng.). Local driving license required.

  
  

• Software: expert use with AutoCAD, word, Excel, power point and other Microsoft Office programs and any other relevant software to an advanced level.

  
  

• Language skills: Fluency in English, written and verbal. Fluency in Arabic or other languages is advantageous.

  
  

• Travel: Flexible attitude towards travelling.