Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Mott MacDonald

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Project Management (Built Environment & Infrastructure)

Date Posted: August 17, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage comprehensive design review processes for large-scale Built Environment and Infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with project objectives and quality standards.

• Oversee and coordinate design activities across multidisciplinary teams, external contractors, and client representatives to facilitate seamless project execution.

• Implement and maintain robust project controls, including budget management, technical submission administration, and risk mitigation strategies.

• Drive the adoption of digital ways of working and continuous improvement initiatives within design management, fostering knowledge sharing and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a global engineering, management, and development consultancy, implying a focus on structured processes, adherence to international standards, and a collaborative approach across diverse project stakeholders. The emphasis on "Built Environment and Infrastructure" suggests projects of significant scale and complexity, requiring strong leadership and technical acumen.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate day-to-day design review activities, encompassing stakeholder engagement, budget control, and progress reporting.

• Serve as the primary liaison with contractor and client representatives for all design review processes and approvals.

• Administer the review and approval of design and technical submissions across all project disciplines, ensuring compliance and quality.

• Establish and enforce appropriate controls for design review activities, including rigorous QA/QC procedures and adherence to contract specifications.

• Monitor and report discipline progress to the Project Principal and client representatives, proactively addressing any deviations or potential issues.

• Identify, document, and manage project changes and variations that impact design delivery, ensuring proper change control procedures are followed.

• Monitor project progress and optimize resource allocation for the design review team, implementing necessary adjustments to meet project timelines and deliverables.

• Collaborate closely with discipline engineers and the Project Principal to effectively resolve design issues and technical challenges.

• Develop, review, and maintain the design review plan, continuously monitoring its effectiveness, adequacy, and ongoing relevance to project needs.

• Proactively identify risks and opportunities associated with design coordination and provide regular, actionable advice to project teams.

• Support the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives and digital transformation within design processes, actively sharing knowledge and best practices.

• Demonstrate safe, ethical, and inclusive behaviors aligned with Mott MacDonald's core values throughout all project interactions and responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a strong emphasis on process management, quality assurance, and stakeholder communication. The role requires a proactive approach to risk and change management, with a keen eye on budget and resource optimization within a project delivery framework. Familiarity with internal Business Management Systems (BMS) is also highlighted.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Architecture.

Experience: Proven engineering experience in design management, commercial project management, and project controls, with a minimum of 5-10 years. Experience within a consultancy environment is essential.

Required Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and/or Architecture.

• Proven engineering experience in design management, commercial project management, and project controls.

• Demonstrated experience working within the Gulf region, with specific familiarity with KSA standards.

• Experience leading design teams, project planning, technical report writing, and proposal preparation.

• Experience within a consultancy environment.

• Familiarity with international design review standards.

• Ability to manage workload and accomplish deliverables across individuals, teams, and projects effectively.

• Capability to coordinate design activities across large Built Environment and Infrastructure projects. Preferred Skills:

• Chartered Engineer, Chartered Architect, or equivalent licensed/registered engineer or architect with a recognized authority.

• Experience reviewing engineering drawings, infrastructure planning, and technical submissions.

• Experience identifying and managing design coordination risks, opportunities, and project changes.

• Experience acting as Project Principal or Project Manager, utilizing internal business management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Desirable" qualifications suggest that professional chartered status significantly enhances a candidate's profile. The requirement for Gulf region experience, particularly KSA standards, is a critical differentiator for this role. The emphasis on both technical design review and broader project management/controls indicates a need for a well-rounded professional.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successfully managing design review processes for complex Built Environment and Infrastructure projects, showcasing scope, challenges, and outcomes.

• Include examples of implemented project controls, such as budget tracking, schedule management, and risk mitigation strategies, with quantifiable results.

• Showcase experience with technical submission administration and the review of engineering drawings and infrastructure planning documents, highlighting quality assurance measures.

• Provide evidence of effective stakeholder management and cross-functional team coordination, illustrating collaborative problem-solving approaches. Process Documentation:

• Detail your approach to developing and managing design review plans, including methodologies for stakeholder engagement and progress monitoring.

• Illustrate your experience in administering technical submissions, including the process for review, feedback, and approval across multiple disciplines.

• Present case studies where you have identified and managed design coordination risks and opportunities, outlining the impact on project delivery and cost.

• Include examples of how you have supported or implemented digital ways of working within design management processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a portfolio that not only lists responsibilities but also provides concrete examples of process implementation, problem-solving, and quantifiable achievements in design management and project controls, particularly within the context of large infrastructure projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: While a specific salary range is not provided, based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a competitive annual salary would likely range from SAR 250,000 to SAR 400,000. This estimate considers the high cost of living, demand for specialized engineering talent in major infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia, and the consultancy environment.

Benefits:

• Rewards and bonuses: Annual bonus opportunities and potential for long-term participation as an employee owner, tied to business performance and eligibility.

• Medical insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance coverage as per local plans, with potential for enhanced options.

• Life insurance: Standard life insurance coverage as per local plans.

• Annual leave: Competitive annual leave allowance in line with local Saudi Arabian policy.

• Maternity and Paternity Leave: Provisions above local standards where applicable.

• Professional membership/institution subscription support: Financial assistance for maintaining professional body memberships.

• Learning and career development: Opportunities for growth through project variety, technical networks, and structured development programs.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with potential for occasional overtime depending on project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The employee ownership model is a significant benefit, offering potential for shared success. The salary estimate is based on general market data for similar roles in Riyadh and the consultancy sector; actual compensation will be determined by Mott MacDonald based on candidate experience, qualifications, and local market conditions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Management, and Development Consultancy. Mott MacDonald operates in a dynamic global sector, contributing to transformative projects that shape the future of urban development and infrastructure.

Company Size: Over 20,000 experts worldwide, indicating a large, established, and globally connected organization. This size offers stability, diverse project opportunities, and a broad network of expertise.

Founded: Mott MacDonald is an employee-owned business with a long history (founded in 1989 through a merger, with roots tracing back to the late 19th century). This history suggests a stable, established firm with a deep understanding of the engineering consultancy landscape.

Team Structure:

• The operations team is likely structured around project delivery, with specialized disciplines (engineering, design, project management, etc.) forming project-specific teams.

• Reporting lines typically involve direct reporting to a Project Principal or similar senior leadership, with dotted-line reporting or collaboration with discipline leads and project managers.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a cornerstone, requiring seamless interaction between design managers, discipline engineers, project managers, client representatives, and contractors. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, utilizing project performance data, cost analysis, and risk assessments to inform strategies.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to design management, ensuring efficient processes from concept to completion.

• The company encourages automation and efficiency practices, leveraging digital tools and innovative methods to enhance project delivery and client value.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: As an employee-owned business, Mott MacDonald fosters a culture of shared responsibility and investment in its people. The global presence and diverse project portfolio mean that operations professionals have opportunities to work on significant, impactful projects, contributing to sustainable development and infrastructure advancements.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the project delivery and design management track. It requires significant autonomy in managing design processes, leading teams, and interfacing with senior stakeholders, indicating a progression from individual contributor roles.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a Project Principal or a similar senior project leader. They will also work closely with various discipline engineers and potentially other project managers, requiring strong collaboration and communication skills across different levels of the organization.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the technical integrity, quality, and compliance of designs for major infrastructure and built environment projects. Their effectiveness directly impacts project timelines, budget adherence, risk mitigation, and ultimately, client satisfaction and the successful realization of project goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Progress to Senior Design Manager roles, overseeing larger or more complex projects, or specializing in specific infrastructure sectors.

• Leadership Development: Transition into Project Principal or broader Project Management roles, taking on greater responsibility for overall project success and client relationships.

• Technical Expertise: Deepen expertise in specific engineering disciplines or advanced design technologies through continued learning and project exposure.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects or relocate to other Mott MacDonald offices, leveraging their experience in diverse markets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "employee-owned" structure suggests a culture that values long-term commitment and professional development. Career progression is likely tied to demonstrable project success, leadership capabilities, and continuous learning, particularly in areas like digital transformation and advanced design methodologies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, within a professional office environment typical of a global engineering consultancy. This setting is likely to be collaborative, with dedicated workspaces for project teams.

Office Location(s): Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This location is a major hub for significant infrastructure and development projects in the region.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will facilitate collaboration among diverse project teams, including engineers, designers, project managers, and administrative staff. Access to meeting rooms and shared project spaces is expected.

• Mott MacDonald emphasizes digital ways of working, suggesting access to relevant design software, project management tools, and communication platforms.

• Opportunities for interaction with a wide range of professionals, from junior engineers to senior leadership and external stakeholders, will be frequent.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely to be Monday to Friday, approximately 40 hours per week. However, given the nature of large-scale projects and deadlines, there may be an expectation for flexibility and occasional overtime to meet critical project milestones or client requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Riyadh office environment will likely reflect the company's global standards for professionalism and collaboration, with a strong focus on project delivery and client service. The role demands presence in the office to effectively manage on-site project coordination and team dynamics.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on qualifications, experience (especially in the Gulf region and KSA standards), and alignment with the Design Manager role.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion on design management methodologies, project controls, engineering drawing review, stakeholder management, and problem-solving capabilities. Expect scenario-based questions related to managing complex design challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a selection of their work, highlighting key projects, design processes managed, challenges overcome, and quantifiable results. Focus on demonstrating leadership in design coordination and project controls.

• Stakeholder/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with senior management (e.g., Project Principal) to assess leadership style, communication skills, cultural alignment with Mott MacDonald values, and overall suitability for the role and team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate your portfolio to showcase projects that best demonstrate your experience in Built Environment and Infrastructure sectors, particularly within the Gulf region.

• For each project, clearly articulate your role, the design management processes you implemented, the challenges faced (e.g., technical issues, stakeholder conflicts), and the solutions you provided.

• Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Reduced design review cycle time by 15%", "Managed a design budget of X million SAR", "Successfully coordinated design for a Y km infrastructure project").

• Include examples of technical reports, design review plans, and risk assessments you have authored or managed.

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to QA/QC, contract compliance, and the use of digital tools in design management. Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate case studies or hypothetical scenarios related to managing design conflicts, budget overruns, or schedule delays on large projects.

• Prepare to discuss your strategies for effective stakeholder communication, risk identification, and mitigation.

• Be ready to articulate your understanding of international and KSA design standards and how you ensure compliance.

• Demonstrate your leadership approach in motivating and guiding design teams, and your ability to foster collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both technical expertise and soft skills, with a strong emphasis on practical application and problem-solving. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates impact and relevant experience will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with systems like Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar for project planning, scheduling, and tracking.

• BMS (Business Management Systems): Familiarity with Mott MacDonald's internal BMS for project administration, reporting, and documentation is essential.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for communication, document sharing, and team collaboration.

• Design Software Interfaces: While not a design creator, understanding the output and review processes for CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and BIM (Building Information Modeling) platforms is beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: Advanced Excel skills for data analysis, budget tracking, and custom reporting.

• BI Tools (Basic Awareness): Familiarity with dashboarding tools like Power BI or Tableau might be advantageous for understanding performance reports, though direct creation may not be required.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with robust document control systems for managing technical submissions, drawings, and correspondence.

• Workflow Automation (Conceptual): Understanding of how workflows can be automated to streamline design review processes and improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names are not listed beyond "BMS systems," candidates should highlight their experience with standard project management and collaboration tools used in large engineering consultancies. A proactive approach to leveraging technology for efficiency and data-driven insights will be valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound designs and project outcomes. This translates to rigorous review processes and attention to detail.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, contractors, and internal teams, ensuring transparency and fairness.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective problem-solving is encouraged.

• Innovation: Embracing digital transformation and continuous improvement to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and project delivery methods.

• Safety & Inclusion: Prioritizing safe working practices and cultivating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and respected.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expected to actively engage with and integrate input from various engineering disciplines, project management, commercial teams, and external parties.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and regular communication channels with all stakeholders to ensure alignment, address issues promptly, and manage expectations.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights to benefit project teams and the wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mott MacDonald's emphasis on being employee-owned suggests a culture that values long-term contributions, professional development, and a sense of shared purpose. The "safe, ethical, and inclusive behaviours" statement highlights a commitment to responsible operations and a positive work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating the needs and expectations of multiple parties (client, contractors, internal disciplines) on complex projects.

• Navigating KSA Regulatory Landscape: Ensuring full compliance with local Saudi Arabian design standards and regulatory requirements, which can be intricate.

• Driving Digital Adoption: Encouraging and implementing new digital tools and processes within a potentially traditional project environment.

• Balancing Quality with Speed: Meeting demanding project timelines without compromising the rigor of design reviews and quality assurance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Management Techniques: Access to training and project experience in cutting-edge design management strategies and methodologies.

• Digital Tools & BIM: Opportunities to deepen expertise in BIM and other digital platforms relevant to infrastructure design and management.

• Project Leadership: Pathways to develop skills in overall project leadership, financial management, and client relationship building.

• Industry Exposure: Working on high-profile, transformative projects that offer significant learning experiences and career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in large-scale international projects, requiring strong leadership, adaptability, and strategic thinking. Mott MacDonald's commitment to learning and development provides a structured environment for professionals to overcome these challenges and grow their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex design coordination challenge you faced on a large infrastructure project and how you resolved it." (Focus on your process, stakeholder management, and outcome.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with international and local (e.g., KSA) design standards while managing multiple disciplines?" (Highlight your understanding of standards and your QA/QC approach.)

• "Walk us through your process for administering and reviewing technical submissions from contractors." (Detail your steps, key considerations, and approval workflow.)

• "How do you manage and control design budgets on projects of this scale?" (Emphasize your experience with budget tracking, reporting, and change control.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Mott MacDonald's work in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia?" (Research recent projects and company news.)

• "How do you align with Mott MacDonald's values of excellence, integrity, collaboration, innovation, safety, and inclusion?" (Provide specific examples from your experience.)

• "How would you contribute to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and digital ways of working within the design team?" (Showcase your proactive mindset and understanding of modern practices.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 3-4 key projects that best represent your experience as a Design Manager in Built Environment/Infrastructure.

• For each project, clearly outline the scope, your specific responsibilities, the design review process, key challenges, your strategic approach, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Be prepared to discuss your role in stakeholder management, risk identification, and budget control with specific examples.

• Showcase your understanding of technical documentation, drawing review, and compliance processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to articulate your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Emphasize your leadership, problem-solving skills, and your ability to drive process efficiency and quality in design management.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Mott MacDonald careers portal at https://apply.mottmac.com/job/Riyadh-Design-Manager/1369603157/.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight experience in design management, project controls, and the Gulf region, explicitly mentioning KSA standards and relevant project types (Built Environment, Infrastructure). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare your portfolio: Select key projects and be ready to discuss your role, processes implemented, challenges overcome, and outcomes achieved, focusing on design review, stakeholder coordination, and project controls.

• Research Mott MacDonald: Understand their global presence, key projects in Saudi Arabia, and their company values to tailor your responses and demonstrate cultural fit.

• Practice your interview answers: Prepare for technical questions about design management methodologies, risk assessment, and stakeholder engagement, as well as behavioral questions related to leadership and problem-solving.

⚠️ 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.