Senior Interior Designer

Experience

Role Overview

Senior Design Lead

Key Responsibilities

• Develop design strategies, programmes, and delivery plans aligned with project objectives
• Manage external design consultants from concept development through detailed design
• Lead internal designers, architects, technical coordinators, and drafting teams
• Review concepts, layouts, drawings, specifications, materials, and technical submissions
• Ensure design intent is maintained throughout procurement and site execution
• Coordinate closely with engineering, commercial, procurement, project, and site teams
• Identify design risks, clashes, constructability concerns, and opportunities for value improvement
• Lead design reviews and ensure quality, accuracy, and regulatory compliance
• Present concepts, progress updates, and technical recommendations to clients and senior stakeholders
• Manage stakeholder feedback and ensure timely resolution of design-related issues
• Support budgeting, material evaluation, cost reviews, and design-related risk management
• Promote innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement across the design function

Required Background

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related discipline
• 12+ years of relevant design experience, with extensive exposure to the UAE market
• At least 5–7 years in a senior design leadership or management position
• Strong experience delivering premium residential, private property, or hospitality-style interior projects
• Excellent knowledge of detailed design, specialist finishes, bespoke joinery, FF&E, and technical coordination
• Understanding of interior construction methods, materials, budgets, and commercial considerations
• Experience managing consultants, multidisciplinary teams, contractors, and suppliers
• Good knowledge of UAE authority requirements, codes, and industry standards
• Proficiency with relevant design, presentation, and project-management software

Skills

• and Competencies
• Strong leadership and team-development capabilities
• Excellent client communication and presentation skills
• Commercial awareness and value-engineering mindset
• Strong negotiation, planning, and decision-making abilities
• High attention to design quality and technical detail
• Ability to manage several priorities and demanding project timelines
• International design exposure is an advantage