Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Balfin Development

Location: Tirana, Albania

Job Type: Full time

Category: Design & Project Management Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-27

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage a team of Design Coordinators within the Technical Department, ensuring efficient project design execution from concept to implementation.

• Oversee the entire design process, aligning project outcomes with objectives, timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

• Drive the development and administration of service contracts with local and international consulting firms, including Terms of Reference (ToR) and deliverables.

• Collaborate with Procurement and Logistics on tender documentation, technical bid evaluations, and selection of external designers.

• Ensure strict adherence to company procedures, contractual obligations, and relevant territorial planning and development legislation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the responsibilities and required experience indicate a role deeply embedded in the operational execution of development projects. This role requires a blend of technical design oversight, robust project management, and team leadership, making it a critical function within the GTM and project delivery lifecycle for a development firm. The emphasis on regulatory compliance and contract management also highlights its operational significance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership and Development: Lead, supervise, and motivate the Design Coordinators team; assign tasks, set clear performance objectives, provide continuous feedback, and support professional development.

• Design Process Management: Manage and coordinate the design process from conceptualization to implementation drawings, ensuring project requirements, deadlines, budgets, quality standards, and investor expectations are met.

• Contract and Consultant Management: Lead and oversee the preparation and administration of service contracts with local and international consulting companies, including Terms of Reference (ToR), schedules, deliverables, and related documentation. Contribute to decision-making regarding consultant contracting and performance.

• Procurement and Tendering Support: Collaborate with the Procurement and Logistics Department in preparing tender documentation, technically evaluating bidders, and selecting external designers; maintain and update the list of contracted and potential designers.

• Design Review and Quality Assurance: Supervise the review of designs and documentation submitted by designers against service contracts, ToRs, technical specifications, and project requirements; identify issues and propose solutions and optimizations for project quality and feasibility.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with company procedures, contractual requirements, current legislation for territorial planning and development, and conditions of approved plans and permits; oversee the preparation and completion of technical-legal documentation for development and/or construction permits.

• Cross-Functional Coordination: Coordinate the design and implementation process in collaboration with the Project Manager and Head of the Technical Department, designers, developers, and site teams, ensuring adherence to project requirements and decisions, addressing technical/architectural issues, and optimizing designs.

• Risk and Performance Monitoring: Monitor project progress and team performance, identify risks, delays, and issues promptly, propose corrective actions and effective solutions, prepare periodic progress reports, and contribute to continuous improvement of design and coordination processes.

• Stakeholder Communication: Participate in meetings with investors, designers, consultants, and third parties, ensuring effective communication among parties and tracking the implementation of decisions within defined deadlines.

• Ad Hoc Duties: Perform other related duties as required by the company and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on management role requiring deep involvement in project lifecycle operations, from early-stage design strategy to ensuring regulatory approvals. The emphasis on coordination, risk management, and compliance positions this role as crucial for Balfin Development's operational efficiency and project success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Master's Degree in Architecture.

Experience: Minimum 7 years of experience in design and implementation, with at least 3 years in team management.

Required Skills:

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage complex design projects from inception to completion, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and timeline.

• Team Leadership & Motivation: Demonstrated experience in leading, supervising, and developing technical teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.

• Contract Administration: Expertise in managing service contracts with external consultants and designers, including ToRs, deliverables, and performance monitoring.

• AutoCAD Proficiency: Mandatory advanced knowledge and practical application of AutoCAD for design and drafting.

• MS Office Suite: Strong command of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for reporting, analysis, and communication.

• MS Project: Essential for project scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of Albanian territorial planning and development legislation, as well as construction permit processes.

• Problem-Solving & Decision Making: Strong analytical skills to identify issues, assess risks, and propose practical, effective solutions.

• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to effectively liaise with diverse stakeholders (investors, consultants, internal teams).

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to reviewing technical documentation and ensuring accuracy in design and compliance.

• English Language Proficiency: Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Preferred Skills:

• BIM Software: Proficiency in BIM software such as Revit and Navisworks is a significant advantage.

• Creative & Technical Design Acumen: A critical eye for architectural details, both functional and aesthetic.

• Experience with External Consultants: Proven track record in managing and coordinating multiple design disciplines and external consultants.

• Understanding of Project Development Processes: Familiarity with the end-to-end lifecycle of real estate development projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for both "Design & Implementation" experience and "Team Management" experience, coupled with specific software and regulatory knowledge, points to a role that bridges technical expertise with operational oversight. The preference for BIM software suggests the company is modernizing its design processes and values candidates who can adapt to or lead such transitions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Case Studies: Showcase a portfolio of completed development projects, detailing your role, the scope of design, and the challenges overcome.

• Team Management Examples: Include evidence of team leadership, including team structure, objective setting, and performance management strategies employed.

• Contract Management Examples: Present examples of how you've managed external consultant contracts, including ToR development, negotiation, and performance oversight.

• Regulatory Compliance Documentation: Demonstrate understanding of how you ensure and document compliance with building codes and planning laws in project designs.

• Process Optimization Initiatives: Highlight any instances where you identified and implemented improvements to design or coordination processes, leading to efficiency gains or quality enhancements.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Provide examples of how you've documented and optimized design workflows, from initial concept through to construction-ready documentation.

• System Implementation Standards: Showcase experience in implementing or adhering to design standards, quality control procedures, and BIM protocols.

• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how you track and report on design team performance, project progress, and adherence to budgets and schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should not only display aesthetic and technical design capabilities but also robust project management and operational process management. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to team management, contract negotiation, risk mitigation, and ensuring regulatory compliance, supported by concrete examples from their experience.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 7+ years of experience in a major European capital like Tirana, and considering the responsibilities of leading a technical team and overseeing complex development projects, the estimated annual gross salary range is €25,000 - €40,000. This estimate is derived from regional salary data for similar roles in the construction and real estate development sectors, adjusted for experience level and the scope of management duties.

Benefits:

• Full-time Employment: Standard full-time contract with a leading development group.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth within a dynamic and expanding organization.

• Access to Modern Tools: Utilization of professional design and project management software (AutoCAD, MS Office, MS Project, potentially BIM).

• Contribution to Prestigious Projects: Opportunity to work on high-profile residential, tourism, industrial, and commercial projects that shape the region.

• Team Environment: Collaborative work environment within a structured Technical Department.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday, aligning with standard office hours in Albania. Flexibility may be required during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on general market data for Albania and the specified experience level. Actual compensation will be determined by the company based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the specific demands of the role. Benefits are inferred from standard practices for full-time roles in established companies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Development, Investment, Construction. Balfin Development operates within a competitive market, focusing on high-value projects that set industry standards. This implies a culture that prioritizes quality, innovation, and client satisfaction.

Company Size: Balfin Group is a large conglomerate employing around 5,000 people across 11 countries. Balfin Development, as a significant part of this group, likely operates with a substantial team and resources, offering a stable and professional working environment.

Founded: BALFIN Group was founded in 1993. This long history suggests a well-established company with a proven track record and deep market understanding.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will be part of the Technical Department.

• They will lead a team of Design Coordinators, indicating a direct reporting structure and managerial responsibility.

• Collaboration is expected with the Project Manager and the Head of the Technical Department, suggesting a hierarchical structure within the technical division.

• Cross-functional collaboration will be essential with Procurement, Logistics, Development teams, and site construction crews, as well as external consultants, designers, and investors. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Project Execution: Decisions are informed by project requirements, technical specifications, and regulatory frameworks.

• Process-Oriented Workflow: Emphasis on structured design processes, contract administration, and adherence to company procedures.

• Quality and Efficiency Focus: Continuous improvement of design processes and coordination to meet deadlines, budgets, and quality standards.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: Active engagement with all stakeholders to address technical challenges and optimize project outcomes.

Company Website: www.balfindevelopment.al

📝 Enhancement Note: Balfin Development's affiliation with the larger BALFIN Group suggests a robust corporate structure and adherence to international standards. The focus on prestigious projects implies a culture that values excellence, strategic planning, and meticulous execution, all critical for operational success in development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-to-senior level management position, requiring significant experience in both design execution and team leadership. It sits within the operational backbone of the company, directly impacting project delivery.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to a higher authority within the Technical Department (likely the Head of the Technical Department or a Director of Engineering/Development) and manages a team of Design Coordinators. This position serves as a key link between strategic project goals and tactical design implementation.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is pivotal to the operational efficiency and financial success of Balfin Development's projects. Effective design management ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards, directly impacting profitability and client satisfaction. Their ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and manage external consultants also mitigates project risks.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Management: Potential to advance to Head of Technical Department, Director of Engineering, or a broader Project Director role, overseeing multiple projects or larger development portfolios.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific project types (e.g., luxury resorts, large-scale residential complexes) or areas like sustainable design or advanced BIM implementation.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Transition into roles within project management, procurement strategy, or development strategy, leveraging their deep understanding of the project lifecycle.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities for leadership training, advanced project management certifications, and participation in industry conferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, diversified group. The combination of technical oversight and team management provides a solid foundation for moving into more strategic leadership positions within the development or broader BALFIN Group operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Tirana, Albania, within the offices of Balfin Development. This is an on-site position. The environment is expected to be professional, dynamic, and collaborative, typical of a leading development company.

Office Location(s): Tirana, Albania. Specific office address details would be provided upon further engagement.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The workspace will likely facilitate close collaboration with the Design Coordinators team, Project Managers, and other members of the Technical Department.

• Access to Technology: Candidates will have access to necessary design software (AutoCAD, MS Office, MS Project, and potentially BIM tools) and IT infrastructure.

• Team Interaction: Regular meetings, design reviews, and coordination sessions will be integral to the daily workflow, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday. However, the demanding nature of project deadlines in development may require occasional flexibility and extended hours, especially during critical phases of design or permitting.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an on-site role within a major development firm, the work environment will be structured and professional, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and project delivery. The need for flexibility underscores the operational realities of managing large-scale development projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter by HR/Recruitment to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Technical Interview: Assessment of architectural knowledge, design principles, project management skills, and familiarity with relevant software (AutoCAD, MS Project). Questions will likely focus on problem-solving scenarios related to design challenges and regulatory compliance.

• Managerial/Team Fit Interview: Evaluation of leadership capabilities, team management style, communication skills, and cultural fit with Balfin Development. This may involve a discussion on how you motivate teams and handle conflicts.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, detailing key projects, their specific contributions, and how they managed design processes and teams. Emphasis will be on demonstrating impact and problem-solving.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management (e.g., Head of Technical Department, CEO of Balfin Development) to discuss strategic alignment and final decision-making.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects that showcase your design management expertise, team leadership, and ability to navigate complex projects.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, the process you followed, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, time efficiencies, quality improvements, successful permit acquisition).

• Highlight Management: Emphasize your role in leading teams, coordinating consultants, managing contracts, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Use specific examples of leadership actions and decision-making.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss technical aspects of the designs, your proficiency with AutoCAD, MS Project, and any experience with BIM software.

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps chronologically or by project type, with clear descriptions for each piece.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be ready to discuss hypothetical design challenges, such as resolving conflicting stakeholder requirements, addressing unforeseen site conditions, or optimizing a design to meet budget constraints.

• Team Management Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you've handled underperforming team members, managed team conflicts, or motivated a team during a difficult project phase.

• Regulatory Compliance: Be prepared to discuss your approach to ensuring designs meet all legal and regulatory requirements in Albania.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a management role like this will be thorough, assessing not only technical skills but also leadership potential and operational acumen. A well-prepared portfolio that highlights achievements in managing processes, teams, and projects is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Mandatory for drafting and design work. Proficiency is essential.

• MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook): Critical for daily operations, reporting, presentations, and communication.

• MS Project: Essential for project scheduling, timeline management, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: For data analysis, budget tracking, and performance reporting.

• MS Project: For project progress and performance reporting.

• Custom Reporting Tools: May be used internally by Balfin Development for project oversight.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: While not explicitly stated beyond MS Project, the company likely uses other project management or collaboration platforms for internal workflows and communication.

• BIM Software (Preferred): Revit, Navisworks, or similar Building Information Modeling software are highly advantageous, indicating a potential move towards more integrated and digital design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in core design and project management software is non-negotiable. The preference for BIM tools suggests that candidates with experience in these advanced technologies will have a competitive edge and may be instrumental in driving digital transformation within the design department.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to high standards in design, execution, and project delivery, reflecting the company's portfolio of prestigious developments.

• Efficiency & Timeliness: A focus on meeting deadlines and optimizing processes to ensure projects are completed within budget and on schedule.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: An emphasis on working effectively across teams and with external partners to achieve common project goals.

• Innovation & Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges, seeking creative and practical solutions.

• Integrity & Compliance: Adherence to legal, regulatory, and ethical standards in all aspects of work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with various departments (Technical, Procurement, Logistics, Development) and external stakeholders (designers, consultants, investors, local authorities).

• Process-Driven Communication: Communication is likely structured around project milestones, design reviews, and problem-solving sessions, supported by documentation and formal reporting.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to providing and receiving constructive feedback to continuously improve project outcomes and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Balfin Development, as part of a large group, likely fosters a culture of professionalism, accountability, and results-orientation. The emphasis on prestigious projects suggests a drive for excellence and innovation, supported by strong teamwork and clear operational processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and expectations of investors, design teams, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

• Navigating Complex Regulatory Frameworks: Ensuring all designs and permits comply with Albanian planning laws and building codes, which can be intricate and subject to change.

• Coordinating Multiple Design Disciplines: Integrating various specialized designs (architectural, structural, MEP, landscape) into a cohesive and functional project.

• Maintaining Project Timelines and Budgets: Effectively managing resources and mitigating risks to prevent delays and cost overruns in a competitive development market.

• Leading and Developing a Technical Team: Motivating and guiding design coordinators, ensuring their professional growth and consistent performance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Opportunities to deepen expertise in project management methodologies, potentially leading to certifications.

• BIM Implementation: If not already proficient, there's a chance to lead or significantly contribute to the adoption and implementation of BIM technologies.

• Leadership Training: Access to leadership development programs offered by the BALFIN Group to enhance managerial skills.

• Industry Exposure: Involvement in high-profile projects provides invaluable experience and exposure to best practices in real estate development.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within the Technical Department or the broader Group.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges inherent in large-scale development projects, but these are balanced by substantial opportunities for professional growth, skill enhancement, and career advancement within a leading regional conglomerate.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Project Strategy: "Describe your approach to managing a complex design project from concept to final implementation drawings, ensuring all stakeholder requirements are met within budget and timeline." (Focus on your process, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement.)

• Team Leadership: "How do you motivate and develop a team of design coordinators? Provide an example of a time you successfully led a team through a challenging project phase." (Highlight your management style, feedback mechanisms, and problem-solving within the team.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a situation where a critical design element conflicts with a new regulatory requirement discovered late in the process. How would you address this?" (Demonstrate your analytical skills, knowledge of regulations, and ability to find practical solutions.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Vision: "What excites you about Balfin Development's projects, and how do you see your role contributing to their success?" (Show your research and alignment with the company's mission and portfolio.)

• Team Dynamics: "How do you foster collaboration between design teams, project managers, and site teams?" (Emphasize your communication and integration strategies.)

• Operational Impact: "How do you measure the success of your design management efforts, and what KPIs do you prioritize?" (Focus on measurable outcomes like budget adherence, schedule compliance, quality metrics, and permit approvals.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentation around compelling narratives for each project. Clearly define the challenge, your strategic approach, the operational execution, and the successful outcome.

• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics whenever possible to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Reduced design revision time by 15%," "Ensured 100% compliance with local building codes," "Successfully managed a design budget of X€").

• Highlight Management: Explicitly showcase your leadership in managing teams, consultants, and processes. Show, don't just tell, your management capabilities.

• Technical Proficiency: Be ready to walk through specific drawings or design elements, demonstrating your understanding of AutoCAD and any BIM tools you've used.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their operational approach to design management, demonstrating not only technical expertise but also strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills, backed by concrete examples from their portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application, including your CV and a compelling cover letter, through the provided link on the Balfin Development recruitment portal.

• Customize Your CV: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in architectural design, project management, team leadership, contract administration, and regulatory compliance relevant to Albanian law. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a professional portfolio showcasing your most relevant projects. Ensure it demonstrates your design management capabilities, team leadership, and ability to navigate complex operational challenges. Be ready to present key case studies.

• Research Balfin Development: Familiarize yourself with their past and current projects, their market position, and the BALFIN Group's overall structure and values. Understand their commitment to quality and development standards.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions related to design management, leadership, problem-solving, and stakeholder communication, using examples from your experience and portfolio.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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