Design Manager

Job Summary

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the architectural design process for the luxury hotel project from concept design through IFC and construction support stages.
• Coordinate with architects, interior designers, operators, consultants, and project stakeholders to ensure design intent and project requirements are achieved.
• Review and manage architectural drawings, specifications, façade details, space planning, and material selections to ensure quality and compliance.
• Ensure the architectural design aligns with luxury hospitality standards, guest experience requirements, brand guidelines, and operational functionality.
• Manage design deliverables, submissions, and approvals in line with project schedules and milestones.
• Conduct design review meetings, workshops, and coordination sessions with consultants, clients, and hotel operators.
• Liaise with local authorities and consultants for architectural submissions, design approvals, and compliance with applicable regulations and building codes.
• Provide technical guidance and design direction to maintain consistency, constructability, and aesthetic quality throughout the project lifecycle.
• Oversee BIM implementation and architectural coordination in compliance with project BIM standards and execution plans.
• Review architectural shop drawings, material submittals, mock-ups, and sample approvals during construction and fit-out stages.
• Support value engineering initiatives while maintaining the overall luxury design vision and project quality standards.
• Ensure proper management and control of architectural documentation, revisions, and approvals within the Document Management System (DMS).
• Lead preparation and review of as-built architectural drawings and project close-out documentation.
• Mentor and guide the architectural design team to achieve technical excellence and high-performance standards.

& Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture is mandatory.
• Master’s Degree in Architecture or related field will be an added advantage.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in architectural design management for luxury hotel, hospitality, or high-end mixed-use projects.
• Proven experience managing architectural design from concept stage to construction completion.
• Strong knowledge of luxury hotel planning, façade design, space planning, interior coordination, and hospitality design standards.
• Experience working with international hotel operators, consultants, and high-profile hospitality developments is preferred.
• Strong understanding of local authority approval processes, international building codes, and architectural standards.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, BIM platforms, Adobe Creative Suite, and architectural presentation tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong attention to detail, creativity, and commitment to design excellence.
• GCC/UAE luxury hospitality project experience will be highly preferred.