Architect/Design Manager - School Projects

We are currently seeking a Design & Development Manager who will be responsible for all aspects of planning, budgeting, design, and execution for new projects as well as enhancement projects, looking at Architecture by leading the design development from concept development stage to completion of comprehensive design stage and project delivery. You will also be responsible for enhancing customer satisfaction and minimizing customer complaints. Our client based in Dubai, is one of the largest semi-governmental conglomerates in the region. This position is a contract role with a duration of 6 months. Key Responsibilities: • Collaborate with the head of design in the development of the interior design management strategy, policies, systems, and processes • Manage complex assigned projects from concept to close out and maintain effective integrated project execution strategies and plans. • Deploy efficient resources to ensure that the work process flows smoothly, acting as the primary liaison between the team and the business in close collaboration with the Head of Design. • Lead the process of project design including evaluation of external design team, regular meetings with consultants, coordination with all concerned Authorities, follow up design time schedules and monitor the progress of design activities. • Provide inputs to the external consultant on design aspects right from the preliminary stage, design completion stage to execution stage. • Inspect project sites to ensure project parameters are within the agreed standards and to ensure quality of work meets business expectations • Guide the team in the search, selection and specification of materials, finishes and furniture. Ensuring that material costs are within budget and meet management expectations. • Obtain approvals from the management and liaise with internal stakeholders such as HSE, Brand representatives, IT, Security, etc. to gather project’s requirements and ensure adherence to policies and procedures. • Continuously monitor projects to ensure that risks are mitigated, and the quality-of-service delivery meets agreed standards and meets customer expectations over the life cycle of projects • Oversee the management, supervision and monitoring of the consultant working on the design of the project. • Monitor and control all activities to ensure satisfactory of complete project delivery. • Update the client on project progress against project milestones, budgets, and timelines. • Introduce the concept of sustainability in order to deliver sustainable project. Enhance coordination and cooperation to achieve Energy, Water and Resource reduction savings during design stage. • Initiate, prepare, review proposals, and participate in interviews in response to RFPs and RFQs. • Collaborate with other lead professionals to ensure design and documentation are in accordance with company standards and internal client expectations • Build and promote an organization culture that encourages innovation and reward performance that leads to enhanced staff motivation and retention. Knowledge, Skills & Experience: • Bachelor’s degree in Architecture. • 8 years’ experience in Design Management and Project Management. Experience in both design development and execution is a must. Technical Competencies • Design Management • Project Management • Risk Analysis and decision making • Quality Assurance Behavioural Competencies • Customer Focus • Results Orientation • Business Awareness • Curious & Creative • Sense of Urgency • Adaptability & Flexibility • Builds Relationships • Empowerment • Problem Solving & Decision Making • Planning and Organizing • Communication Skills • Teamwork Show more Show less

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture. 8 years’ experience in Design Management and Project Management. Experience in both design development and execution.

Collaborate with the head of design in developing interior design management strategy, policies, systems, and processes. Manage complex projects from concept to close out with integrated execution plans. Serve as primary liaison between the team and the business, coordinating with the Head of Design. Lead project design including evaluation of external design teams, meetings with consultants, coordination with authorities, tracking design schedules, and monitoring design activity progress. Provide inputs to external consultants from preliminary through execution stages. Inspect project sites to ensure standards, quality, and business expectations. Guide material, finishes, and furniture selection, ensuring costs stay within budget. Obtain approvals from management and liaise with internal stakeholders (HSE, Brand, IT, Security) to gather requirements and ensure policy adherence. Monitor projects to mitigate risks and deliver quality service throughout the project life cycle. Oversee management and monitoring of consultants involved in design. Monitor and control activities to ensure successful project delivery. Update client on progress against milestones, budgets, and timelines. Integrate sustainability concepts to achieve energy, water, and resource reductions during design. Participate in preparing proposals and interviews in response to RFPs/RFQs. Collaborate with lead professionals to ensure design/documentation meet company standards and client expectations. Promote an organizational culture that encourages innovation, motivation, and staff retention.