Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: JLL

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full time

Category: Design Management / Real Estate Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-03

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage design teams to ensure successful project execution from concept to completion.

• Oversee the comprehensive design process, including development, coordination, and site implementation.

• Ensure strict adherence to approved designs, specifications, and quality standards by contractors.

• Manage FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) projects, from selection and procurement to installation and handover.

• Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress and ensure compliance with design intent and project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Design Manager," has significant operational oversight, particularly in site execution and contractor management, aligning it with GTM and project operations functions within the real estate development sector. The emphasis on "shaping a brighter way" and "shaping the future of real estate" suggests a forward-thinking company culture focused on innovation and impact.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and supervise the Design Team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.

• Oversee the management of design deliverables, ensuring timely coordination and approvals across multiple concurrent projects.

• Conduct thorough reviews of design drawings, specifications, material selections, and technical submissions for compliance and quality.

• Manage all aspects of FF&E projects, including design development, material sourcing, procurement coordination, installation oversight, and final handover.

• Perform regular site attendance to monitor and supervise the execution of approved designs, ensuring alignment with project goals.

• Verify that contractor work strictly complies with approved drawings, specifications, material standards, and required quality benchmarks.

• Proactively follow up with contractors on design-related inquiries and resolve site issues efficiently in coordination with relevant disciplines.

• Review and approve shop drawings, material submittals, samples, mock-ups, and respond to Requests for Information (RFIs) in a timely manner.

• Ensure seamless coordination of architectural, interior design, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing), and specialist requirements.

• Monitor design progress, proactively identify potential risks and delays, and implement timely corrective actions to maintain project schedules.

• Actively participate in coordination and progress meetings, providing clear, concise, and accurate status updates to stakeholders.

• Support site inspections, snagging processes, project close-out procedures, and final handover activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a strong blend of design leadership and on-site operational management. The explicit mention of "contractor compliance," "site issues," "shop drawings," and "RFIs" points to a need for robust project execution skills, a key component in operations roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• 15–20 years of progressive, relevant professional experience.

• Demonstrated success in a dedicated Design Manager role.

• Extensive experience in site supervision and overseeing design execution on construction sites.

• Proven track record in managing interior fit-out and FF&E projects from inception to completion.

• Experience supervising and mentoring design teams. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage the entire design lifecycle for complex projects.

• Site Supervision: Expertise in monitoring construction activities, ensuring adherence to design specifications and quality standards.

• Interior Fit-out Expertise: Deep understanding of interior design principles and execution for commercial spaces.

• FF&E Project Management: Comprehensive knowledge of FF&E selection, procurement, installation, and lifecycle management.

• Construction Methods & Materials: Solid understanding of building practices, material properties, and their application in design.

• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Skill in coordinating effectively between architectural, interior, MEP, and specialist teams.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent ability to communicate and collaborate with clients, contractors, consultants, and internal teams.

• Technical Review: Proficiency in reviewing technical drawings, specifications, and submissions for accuracy and compliance.

• Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate design and execution risks.

• Quality Assurance: Commitment to upholding high-quality standards throughout the design and construction phases.

Preferred Skills:

• GCC/Saudi Arabia Market Experience: Prior experience working on projects within Saudi Arabia or the broader GCC region.

• Presentation Skills: Highly presentable with strong verbal and written communication abilities.

• Design Software Proficiency: Competency in relevant design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp) and project management tools.

• Procurement Processes: Familiarity with procurement strategies and vendor management for FF&E and construction services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement (15-20 years) and the specific focus on site supervision and execution indicate a senior-level operations role. Preferred experience in Saudi Arabia/GCC suggests a need for understanding local regulations, market dynamics, and cultural nuances in project execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a minimum of 3-5 significant design and build projects managed from conception through site execution.

• Showcase projects that clearly illustrate your leadership of design teams and direct involvement in site supervision.

• Include examples of complex interior fit-out and FF&E projects, detailing your role in material selection, procurement, and installation.

• Present case studies that highlight your ability to coordinate multiple disciplines (Architecture, Interior Design, MEP, etc.) and resolve site-specific challenges.

• Quantify your impact where possible, such as cost savings achieved through design optimization, schedule adherence improvements, or quality enhancements. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of established processes for design review, approval, and revision management.

• Examples of workflow diagrams or process maps detailing the design development and execution phases.

• Documentation of your approach to managing Requests for Information (RFIs) and submittals, including typical turnaround times and escalation procedures.

• Case studies demonstrating how you've implemented quality control processes on-site to ensure compliance with design intent.

• Examples of project close-out and handover documentation, including snagging lists and final sign-offs.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority, a robust portfolio is critical. It should not only showcase aesthetic and technical design capabilities but also rigorous process management, site execution oversight, and problem-solving skills, all hallmarks of effective operations professionals. The focus should be on demonstrating the management of processes and teams, not just individual design contributions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the senior experience level (15-20 years), the location (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), and the nature of the role within a global real estate services firm like JLL, the estimated salary range for a Design Manager is likely between SAR 35,000 to SAR 55,000 per month, or SAR 420,000 to SAR 660,000 annually. This range is based on industry benchmarks for senior design and project management roles in major Middle Eastern cities, considering the cost of living, market demand, and the responsibilities outlined.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Coverage for medical, dental, and vision for employee and potentially dependents.

• Retirement/Pension Contributions: Contributions to a national pension scheme or private retirement plan as per Saudi Labor Law.

• Annual Leave: Generous paid annual leave days, typically starting at 21-30 days per year, increasing with tenure.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for annual bonuses based on individual and company performance.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and attending industry conferences to enhance skills in design, project management, and real estate.

• Relocation Assistance: If applicable, support for relocation to Riyadh, including potential housing allowances or moving expenses.

• Life Insurance: Company-provided life insurance coverage.

• Travel Allowances: Potential allowances for site visits and business travel.

Working Hours:

Typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, the role may require flexibility and occasional work outside standard hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet project deadlines, attend site visits, or manage urgent issues, especially during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on research for senior Design Manager roles in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, referencing industry salary guides and cost-of-living data. The benefits listed are standard for multinational corporations operating in the region. The explicit mention of "site attendance regularly" and resolving "site issues" suggests that while the base hours are standard, operational demands will necessitate flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Services, Investment Management, and Property Development. JLL operates globally, providing a wide spectrum of services from leasing and property management to capital markets and project development.

Company Size: JLL is a large, publicly traded multinational corporation with tens of thousands of employees worldwide. This scale offers significant resources, structured processes, and global opportunities.

Founded: Jones Lang LaSalle was founded in 1783, signifying a long history of expertise and stability in the real estate sector. This legacy often translates into a culture that values experience, long-term relationships, and established best practices.

Team Structure:

• The Design Team is likely composed of architects, interior designers, and potentially space planners, all reporting to the Design Manager.

• This role operates within a project-based structure, collaborating closely with Project Managers, Construction Managers, Procurement Specialists, and Client Representatives.

• The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Project & Development Services division or a Country/Regional Head of Design. Methodology:

• JLL emphasizes a data-driven approach, utilizing market intelligence and analytics to inform design and development strategies.

• Workflow planning and optimization are crucial, especially in managing multiple projects across different stages of development.

• Automation and efficiency practices are increasingly integrated, leveraging technology for design, project tracking, and client reporting.

Company Website: https://www.jll.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: JLL's extensive history and global presence suggest a culture that balances established methodologies with innovation. For operations professionals, this means an environment that values process discipline, robust reporting, and a structured approach to project delivery, while also being open to adopting new technologies and efficient workflows.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level management position, requiring extensive experience and proven leadership capabilities. The Design Manager is responsible for strategic oversight of design processes and the direct management of a team, impacting project outcomes significantly.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President within JLL's Project & Development Services division, overseeing a portfolio of projects in the Riyadh region. They will manage a team of designers and coordinate extensively with project management and construction teams.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is critical in ensuring that projects are designed efficiently, cost-effectively, and to the highest quality standards, directly influencing client satisfaction, project profitability, and JLL's reputation. Their ability to manage design execution on-site also minimizes costly rework and delays, a key operational metric.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into more senior leadership roles such as Head of Design for a region, Director of Project Management, or a senior executive position within JLL's development services.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific sectors (e.g., hospitality, commercial, residential) or specialized design areas.

• Global Mobility: As a global firm, there may be opportunities for international assignments or transfers to other JLL offices.

• Cross-functional Skill Development: Exposure to broader aspects of real estate development, investment, and property management through collaboration with other JLL business lines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager at JLL is well-defined, moving from team leadership to regional or divisional management. The emphasis on "shaping the future of real estate" suggests opportunities for involvement in innovative projects and strategic initiatives within the company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based on-site in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with significant time expected at project locations. JLL likely maintains a professional corporate office environment for administrative tasks, client meetings, and team coordination.

Office Location(s): The primary location is specified as "SAU-CLIENT Riyadh-KAFD," indicating a presence within the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, a prominent business hub. Regular site visits to various project locations throughout Riyadh and potentially surrounding areas will be required.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic workspace involving frequent collaboration with design teams, project managers, contractors, and clients, both in formal meetings and on-site.

• Tools & Technology: Access to JLL’s standard project management software, design tools, and communication platforms. On-site work may involve using specific construction site tools and safety equipment.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with a diverse, international team of professionals, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and best practices.

Work Schedule: While standard office hours are likely Monday to Friday, the demands of site supervision and project deadlines may necessitate flexibility, including occasional evening or weekend work. This on-site presence is crucial for effective operational oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site – Riyadh" designation, coupled with regular site attendance, highlights the hands-on nature of this role. It's a blend of corporate office work and active project site management, requiring adaptability and strong on-site presence.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter will review applications for basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a senior JLL leader) focusing on experience, technical skills, leadership style, and fit with JLL's culture. Expect questions about managing design teams and site execution.

• Technical/Portfolio Review: A session dedicated to presenting and discussing your portfolio. Be prepared to walk through key projects, detailing your specific contributions, design rationale, challenges faced, and solutions implemented, especially regarding site execution and coordination.

• Stakeholder/Team Interview: Interviews with potential peers or direct reports (e.g., Project Managers, senior designers) to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and team fit.

• Final Interview: Potentially a final interview with a senior executive for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Operations: While design is key, emphasize your role in managing processes, teams, and site execution. Highlight how you ensured quality, managed budgets, and met timelines.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to demonstrate impact – e.g., "Reduced RFI response time by X%," "Ensured 98% adherence to design specifications on site," "Successfully managed FF&E procurement saving Y%."

• Problem-Solving: Prepare specific examples of design or site execution challenges you encountered and how you systematically resolved them.

• Coordination Examples: Showcase how you facilitated communication and collaboration between diverse stakeholders (architects, engineers, contractors, clients).

• Tailor to JLL: Research JLL's recent projects and values to tailor your presentation and demonstrate understanding of their business.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study: Be ready for a potential case study involving a design challenge or a site execution issue. You might be asked to outline your approach to diagnosing the problem, developing solutions, and presenting recommendations.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions like "How would you handle a dispute with a contractor over design interpretation?" or "Describe your process for ensuring a complex FF&E installation meets design intent."

• Leadership Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you motivate design teams, manage performance, and handle underperforming team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio review and case studies points to a rigorous selection process. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just design acumen but also strong operational management skills, problem-solving abilities, and strategic thinking relevant to project execution in the real estate sector.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign), and potentially 3D rendering software.

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com, or JLL's internal project management systems for tracking progress, timelines, and resources.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom for communication and virtual collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data, site reports, and financial information. Experience with Excel for data manipulation and analysis.

• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in generating clear and concise reports on design progress, site execution status, budget adherence, and risk assessments. Experience with dashboard creation tools might be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly a sales role, understanding CRM principles for client management and project tracking could be advantageous.

• Building Information Modeling (BIM): Experience with BIM workflows and platforms is increasingly critical for integrated design and construction processes.

• Procurement Software: Familiarity with e-procurement platforms or systems used for managing vendor selection, bids, and contract awards, especially for FF&E.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools mentioned are standard for design and project management roles in the construction and real estate industries. Proficiency in BIM is becoming a critical requirement for integrated project delivery. Experience with project management software is essential for operational oversight and reporting.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and flawless execution, meeting and exceeding client expectations.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, contractors, and team members.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where open communication and mutual support are paramount for project success.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design and construction processes.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, ensuring deadlines are met, and project objectives are achieved.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Proactive engagement with project management, construction, procurement, and client teams to ensure seamless project delivery.

• Constructive Feedback: Encouraging a culture where feedback is shared openly and constructively among team members and with external partners to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches within the design team and across JLL.

📝 Enhancement Note: JLL's values align with typical expectations for a professional services firm, emphasizing quality, integrity, and teamwork. For an operations-focused role like this, the "Accountability" and "Collaboration" values are particularly important, highlighting the need for reliable execution and effective cross-functional partnerships.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of clients, contractors, consultants, and internal teams, often with competing priorities.

• Site Execution Issues: Addressing unforeseen site conditions, contractor performance issues, or design discrepancies that can impact schedule and budget.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Delivering high-quality design and execution within demanding project timelines common in the real estate development sector.

• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating and adhering to local building codes, regulations, and permitting processes in Saudi Arabia.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & Technology Training: Access to courses on new design software, BIM technologies, and sustainable design practices.

• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or other relevant industry credentials.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to enhance leadership, strategic planning, and financial management skills through JLL's internal development programs.

• Industry Networking: Participation in JLL-sponsored events, industry conferences, and professional associations to build networks and stay abreast of market trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the operational complexities inherent in managing large-scale real estate projects. The growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing both technical expertise and leadership capabilities, crucial for career progression within JLL's operational divisions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a design team of 5+ architects and interior designers on multiple concurrent projects." (Focus on team leadership, delegation, and performance management.)

• "Walk me through a challenging site execution issue you encountered and how you resolved it, detailing the steps you took and the outcome." (Prepare a specific STAR method example emphasizing problem-solving, coordination, and impact.)

• "How do you ensure that a contractor's work on-site strictly adheres to approved design specifications and quality standards?" (Discuss your inspection process, communication protocols, and quality control measures.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about JLL and our work in the Saudi Arabian market?" (Research JLL's Riyadh projects, company values, and recent news.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with project managers and construction teams to ensure a cohesive project delivery?" (Highlight your understanding of cross-functional dependencies and communication strategies.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends, construction methods, and material innovations relevant to the real estate industry?" (Discuss your continuous learning habits and professional development activities.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or by the scope of your involvement (e.g., Design Development, Site Execution, FF&E Management).

• Narrative: For each key project, tell a story that highlights the challenge, your strategic approach, the processes you managed, the solutions you implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, drawings, and renderings. For site execution, include photos of the completed work and highlight specific details you oversaw.

• Focus on Operations: Emphasize your role in managing timelines, budgets, teams, and site activities, not just the aesthetic outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of design expertise and strong operational management skills. Candidates need to articulate their experience in managing complex processes, teams, and site execution within the real estate development context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the JLL careers portal (https://jll.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/jllcareers/job/Riyadh-SAU/Design-Manager_REQ529318).

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your design management, team leadership, and site supervision experience. Ensure each project clearly details your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes, with a strong emphasis on operational execution.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "Design Management," "Site Supervision," "FF&E," "Interior Fit-out," "Multidisciplinary Coordination," and "Stakeholder Management." Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare for Case Studies: Anticipate potential scenario-based questions or a case study related to design execution challenges on-site or contractor management. Practice articulating your problem-solving approach.

• Research JLL's Riyadh Operations: Understand JLL's presence, recent projects, and strategic focus in Saudi Arabia. This will help you align your experience and articulate your value proposition effectively during interviews.

⚠️ 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.