General Manager – Architecture & Design (Principal Architect)

Overview

About The Role

General Manager – Architecture & Design

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the overall operations, strategic direction, and business performance of the Architecture & Design division.
• Develop and execute the company's business growth strategy, identifying new opportunities and expanding the client portfolio.
• Oversee the planning, design, coordination, and successful delivery of multiple architectural and interior design projects.
• Ensure all projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with client expectations and quality standards.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams including Architects, Interior Designers, BIM Managers, BIM Architects, BIM Modelers, and Project Coordinators.
• Establish and maintain design standards, technical excellence, and best practices across all projects.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and key stakeholders.
• Participate in client presentations, project negotiations, and executive-level meetings.
• Review and approve concept designs, design development packages, construction documentation, and technical submissions.
• Monitor project profitability, resource planning, budgets, and overall business performance.
• Drive innovation by implementing new technologies, BIM methodologies, and sustainable design practices.
• Mentor and develop department leaders while fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations, international design standards, health & safety requirements, and company policies.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture.
• Professional registration or architectural license is preferred.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in Architecture & Design, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience leading architecture and design firms or large multidisciplinary design departments.
• Strong portfolio of hospitality, F&B, restaurants, cafés, retail, commercial, and mixed-use developments.
• Extensive knowledge of architectural design, interior design coordination, BIM workflows, and project management.
• Demonstrated success in business development, client acquisition, contract negotiations, and strategic planning.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience managing P&L, project budgets, and operational performance.
• Proficiency in industry-standard software including Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, BIM 360, and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working in the GCC, particularly Saudi Arabia, is highly preferred.

Key Competencies

• Executive Leadership

• Team Leadership & Talent Development

• Contract Negotiation

What We Offer

• Competitive executive compensation package.
• Opportunity to lead a growing Architecture & Design organization.
• Exposure to prestigious hospitality, retail, F&B, and commercial developments.
• Collaborative, innovative, and high-performance work environment.
• Long-term career growth with opportunities to shape the future of the organization.

Ideal Candidate Background