We are seeking a highly experienced and visionary Design Director to lead the design function for a premier real estate development company in Saudi Arabia. The successful candidate will bring 18+ years of expertise in residential and hospitality projects, with a strong portfolio of design leadership across large-scale developments. This is a strategic leadership role responsible for guiding architectural vision, design quality, and coordination from concept through to delivery.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the overall design strategy and ensure alignment with the company's development vision and business goals.
- Oversee design development across residential, hospitality, and mixed-use projects from concept to execution.
- Manage in-house design teams and external consultants, ensuring design integrity, innovation, and compliance with regulations.
- Collaborate with development, project management, and commercial teams to ensure design solutions are cost-effective and executable.
- Ensure design quality and standards across all projects, with emphasis on sustainability, functionality, and aesthetics.
- Review and approve design deliverables at various project stages, ensuring timelines and budget targets are met.
- Provide leadership and mentorship to a multidisciplinary design team, fostering a culture of creativity and excellence.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Design, or related field.
- Minimum of 18 years of progressive design experience, with at least 8 years in a leadership role.
- Strong portfolio in large-scale residential and hospitality developments, preferably in the GCC region.
- Proven experience working for or with reputable real estate developers.
- Excellent understanding of local codes, regulations, and international design standards.
- Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
- Proficiency in design tools and software, and an understanding of BIM and sustainable design practices.
Key Competencies:
- Strategic thinker with the ability to anticipate challenges and deliver long-term structural solutions.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, capable of guiding multidisciplinary design and construction teams.
- Holistic understanding of design coordination and project lifecycle integration.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Committed to innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement in engineering practice.
Preferred Candidate:
- Based in or willing to relocate to Saudi Arabia.
- Arabic language skills are a plus.
- Experience with giga or large master-planned developments is highly desirable.
- Experience working for renowned real estate developers in the GCC region.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: ﷼85,000.00 - ﷼90,000.00 per month
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Madinah: Reliably commute or willing to relocate with an employer-provided relocation package (Preferred)
Education:
- Master's (Preferred)
Experience:
- hospitality and residential: 10 years (Required)
- leadership: 8 years (Required)
- progressive design: 10 years (Required)
Expected Start Date: 04/08/2025