Designer & Project Manager – Interior Design & Fit-Out

About the Role Magnum Opus Foundation is seeking a highly motivated Designer & Project Manager to lead the design, coordination, and execution of commercial, retail, and residential interior fit-out projects from concept through completion. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in interior design, project management, tenant and consultant coordination, authority approvals, procurement support, and site execution — bridging design intent with project delivery while maintaining quality, budget, and timeline objectives. Key Responsibilities Design Management • Lead interior design projects from concept development through detailed design and construction documentation • Prepare and review space planning, layouts, mood boards, material selections, and design presentations • Coordinate with consultants, contractors, suppliers, and specialist vendors to maintain design intent throughout execution • Review shop drawings, material submittals, mock-ups, and samples for compliance with approved designs Project Management • Develop and manage project programs, milestones, and delivery schedules • Monitor project progress and proactively identify risks, delays, and mitigation measures • Conduct site inspections, progress reviews, snagging, and quality control assessments • Coordinate project handovers, closeout documentation, and defect liability follow-ups Stakeholder & Client Coordination • Act as the primary point of contact between clients, contractors, landlord representatives, and internal stakeholders • Conduct design workshops, coordination meetings, and progress review sessions • Prepare meeting minutes, project reports, presentations, and status updates Authority & Compliance Management • Coordinate submissions and approvals with relevant authorities and master developers • Ensure compliance with building regulations, fire and life safety requirements, and landlord guidelines • Manage permit applications, NOCs, inspection requirements, and completion approvals Procurement & Commercial Coordination • Assist in vendor selection, tender evaluations, and procurement recommendations • Review quotations, technical proposals, and scope compliance • Coordinate with suppliers and contractors to ensure timely delivery of materials and services Documentation & Reporting • Maintain project documentation, trackers, logs, and correspondence • Prepare and review contracts, scope documents, design briefs, and project reports • Ensure all project records are properly organized and archived Requirements • Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or related discipline • 5–8 years of experience in residential and commercial interior design and fit-out projects, including 3+ years UAE experience • Strong understanding of project management principles and construction processes • Experience coordinating consultants, contractors, landlords, and authorities • Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, and project management tools • Strong knowledge of fit-out documentation, authority approvals, and site execution • Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment Preferred Experience • Commercial office fit-outs • Luxury residential and retail projects • Landlord-side project management • Design & Build project delivery • Authority approval processes within the UAE • Tendering, procurement, and contract administration Key Competencies Leadership & Ownership · Design Excellence · Project Planning & Execution · Problem Solving · Attention to Detail · Negotiation & Stakeholder Management · Time Management · Quality Control · Commercial Awareness Reports To: Director / Senior Management Location: Dubai, UAE Show more Show less