Job Description

: Design Manager - Architecture & Design (UAE)

Position Title:

Design Manager - Architecture & Design

Location:

Dubai

Department:

Architecture / Design

Reports to:

Project and Design / CEO

Employment Type:

Full-time

About Us:

Khales is a leading architectural and design company based in the UAE, specializing in world-class commercial, residential, hospitality, and mixed-use developments. With a strong commitment to design excellence, innovation, and sustainability, we create spaces that blend aesthetic beauty with functionality to deliver high-quality, impactful architectural solutions. We are seeking an experienced

Design Manager

to oversee the design of large-scale projects and lead a team of creative professionals in the development and execution of cutting-edge architectural concepts.

Position Overview:

The

Design Manager - Architecture & Design

will be responsible for managing and overseeing the design process for architectural projects, ensuring they align with client objectives, budget, and timelines. The Design Manager will play a key role in leading a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with internal departments and external consultants, and ensuring high-quality design outputs. This role requires a dynamic leader with expertise in architectural design, project management, and a deep understanding of the UAE's regulatory and cultural landscape.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Team Management:

Lead and manage a diverse team of architects, designers, and draftsmen, providing guidance, mentorship, and constructive feedback to ensure the highest standards of design work. Foster a collaborative and creative work environment, encouraging innovation and problem-solving. Manage team workload, allocate resources, and ensure that design tasks are completed on schedule. Oversee the recruitment, training, and professional development of design team members to enhance their skills and expertise. Coordinate team activities, set priorities, and ensure the team meets project milestones.

2. Design Vision & Strategy:

Define and communicate the design vision for each project in collaboration with senior leadership, ensuring alignment with client goals, business objectives, and design standards. Lead the conceptualization of design ideas, transforming client briefs into innovative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing architectural solutions. Oversee the integration of sustainability and energy-efficient design principles into architectural plans, in line with regional regulations and global best practices (e.g., LEED, Estidama, or Al Safat). Ensure that the design strategy aligns with cultural and regional considerations within the UAE, incorporating local architecture, aesthetics, and regulations.

3. Project Coordination & Execution:

Oversee the architectural design process from conceptual design through to detailed design, construction documentation, and implementation. Collaborate with engineering teams (structural, MEP, civil) and other consultants to ensure design feasibility and integration across disciplines. Ensure that all project timelines, budgets, and resources are carefully managed throughout the design phase. Lead the coordination of design activities with stakeholders, including clients, contractors, consultants, and authorities. Ensure design concepts are well-communicated and understood by all parties involved, including clients, regulatory authorities, and construction teams. Track and manage design deliverables to ensure that deadlines are met and project quality is maintained.

4. Design Quality Control & Compliance:

Conduct design reviews, ensuring all outputs are of the highest quality and in compliance with local regulations, codes, and industry standards. Review architectural drawings, models, and presentations for consistency, clarity, and accuracy. Ensure that all designs adhere to the relevant UAE building codes and regulations (e.g., Dubai Building Code, Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council regulations, etc.). Oversee design development meetings, ensuring all client, technical, and aesthetic requirements are addressed. Review and approve material specifications, finishes, and design documentation for compliance with project goals and budgets.

5. Client & Stakeholder Engagement:

Develop and maintain strong, professional relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and other stakeholders. Engage with clients to refine project goals, provide design updates, and obtain feedback at key project stages. Conduct design presentations to clients and stakeholders, articulating design concepts, ideas, and rationale effectively. Act as a point of contact for client communications related to design, ensuring clarity and transparency throughout the project lifecycle. Address any design-related issues or changes, ensuring that modifications align with project objectives and budget constraints.

6. Financial Management & Resource Allocation:

Work closely with the project management team to develop design budgets, ensuring that design work is completed within allocated costs. Assist in cost planning and manage the design budget, including monitoring the cost of materials, design revisions, and other project-related expenses. Ensure that resources are allocated efficiently within the design team, identifying areas of potential cost savings without compromising quality. Manage procurement of design-related services and materials, ensuring that costs remain in line with the project budget.

7. Innovation & Sustainability:

Promote innovative design solutions that integrate cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, and materials. Stay up-to-date with the latest architectural trends, building technologies, and design tools to ensure the company's design capabilities remain competitive. Champion sustainable architecture, advocating for energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and sustainable urban planning solutions. Encourage the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and other advanced design tools to improve collaboration and efficiency.

Qualifications & Skills:

Required:

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture

from a recognized institution.

8+ years of experience

in architecture and design, with at least

3-5 years in a management or leadership role

. Proven track record in managing large-scale architectural projects in the UAE or GCC region (experience in commercial, residential, hospitality, or mixed-use projects preferred). Deep understanding of

UAE building codes, regulations, and design standards

(e.g., Dubai Municipality, Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council, Estidama, LEED). Proficiency with design software such as

AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite

, and other architectural design tools. Strong knowledge of

BIM

(Building Information Modeling) and 3D modeling software. Familiarity with sustainability frameworks, including

LEED, Estidama, or similar green building certifications

.

Fluency in English

(written and spoken), with knowledge of Arabic being a plus. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients, stakeholders, and team members.

Preferred:

UAE-based experience

in architecture and design, including familiarity with local construction practices and contractors.

Professional qualifications

such as

LEED AP

,

RIBA

, or

AIA

certification. Experience working with

high-end luxury, hospitality, or mega-projects

. Knowledge of

advanced rendering tools

such as

V-Ray, Lumion

, or

Enscape

.

Core Competencies:

Leadership & Team Management:

Ability to lead and inspire a multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration.

Project Management:

Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to juggle multiple high-priority projects and deadlines.

Attention to Detail:

Ensuring design quality and compliance with regulations while maintaining the design integrity of the project.

Communication:

Strong presentation and client-facing skills, able to articulate complex design ideas and solutions clearly and effectively.

Innovation:

Encouraging the use of new technologies, design methodologies, and sustainable practices.

Cultural Sensitivity:

Understanding the cultural and regulatory landscape of the UAE and the wider GCC region to deliver culturally appropriate and sustainable designs.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: AED18,000.00 - AED25,000.00 per month

Application Question(s):

How many years of experience do you have in UAE? What is your notice period in days? What is your salary expectation? * Do you hold any UAE licenses?