Design Manager (Civils)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (Civils)

Company: Mace

Location: Riyadh, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Construction & Engineering Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-23

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and manage the end-to-end design management process for significant civil infrastructure projects, specifically focusing on large-scale Roads and Bridges packages.

• Lead and guide multi-disciplinary design management teams, ensuring effective daily operations and coordination across project phases.

• Ensure strict adherence to project briefs, established governance frameworks, and diverse stakeholder requirements throughout the design lifecycle.

• Provide critical operational support and ensure the timely delivery of coordinated project design outputs.

• Analyze, interpret, and present Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and management review data to inform strategic decision-making and performance optimization.

• Contribute to business development and work-winning initiatives by showcasing design management expertise and project delivery capabilities.

• Champion the net zero carbon transition by proactively managing emissions within design processes and project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a large-scale, high-profile program in Saudi Arabia, indicating a need for robust project management, cross-functional team leadership, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments. The emphasis on "Civils Infrastructure" and "Roads and Bridges" points to a deep specialization in heavy engineering projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the design management process for large-scale Roads and Bridges packages, including the selection, appointment, and management of technical design consultancies.

• Guide and mentor daily activities of design management teams, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment.

• Ensure all design briefs are clearly defined, governance protocols are followed, and stakeholder requirements are accurately translated into design objectives.

• Provide comprehensive operational support for design activities, ensuring coordinated and integrated project deliverables that meet quality, cost, and schedule targets.

• Analyze, interpret, and present Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and management review data to senior leadership and project stakeholders, highlighting areas for improvement and strategic adjustments.

• Support business development activities by contributing to proposals, bid submissions, and client relationship management, leveraging project successes and technical expertise.

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with internal teams, external consultants, and clients, leveraging Mace's reach-back capabilities and Centre of Excellence knowledge.

• Champion the net zero carbon transition by integrating sustainable design principles and proactively managing emissions throughout the design and construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership in civil design, team management, strategic operational support, and a keen focus on client delivery and business growth. The inclusion of "Net Zero Carbon" signifies a modern approach to sustainable construction management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture) is essential.

• Chartered or professional membership (e.g., MICE, RIBA, RICS) is highly advantageous and preferred. Experience:

• Proven track record of successfully delivering the design process for large-scale civils/infrastructure projects, with a specific emphasis on Roads and Bridges packages.

• Extensive experience in managing technical design consultancies and integrated project teams.

• Demonstrable experience in analyzing and interpreting KPIs and management review data for strategic reporting.

• Experience in supporting business development and work-winning initiatives within the construction and engineering sector. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in leading and managing the entire design lifecycle for complex infrastructure projects.

• Civils Infrastructure: Deep understanding of civil engineering principles, particularly in roads, bridges, and associated infrastructure.

• Roads and Bridges Design: Specific knowledge of design standards, methodologies, and challenges related to road and bridge construction.

• Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to effectively engage with and manage diverse stakeholders, including clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies.

• Technical Consultancy Management: Skill in procuring, managing, and evaluating the performance of external design consultancies.

• KPI Analysis & Reporting: Proficiency in defining, tracking, and reporting on key project performance indicators.

• Business Development Support: Ability to contribute to client engagement and work-winning efforts.

• Net Zero Carbon Management: Understanding and application of principles for sustainable design and emissions reduction.

• Building Safety Legislation: Knowledge of current building safety regulations and compliance requirements.

• Construction Contracts & Professional Appointments: Familiarity with standard contract forms, legal agreements, and professional responsibilities.

Preferred Skills:

• Membership in professional bodies such as RIBA, MICE, CIBSE, CIOB, RICS, CIAT, or equivalent.

• Knowledge of health and safety legislation relevant to construction projects.

• Experience in a large-scale program environment, such as those found in major infrastructure developments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong technical foundation in civil engineering and design management, coupled with commercial acumen and leadership capabilities. The preference for chartered status and specific professional memberships indicates a desire for highly qualified and recognized industry professionals.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least 2-3 comprehensive case studies detailing the design management of major Roads and Bridges or similar large-scale civils/infrastructure projects.

• For each case study, clearly articulate your specific role, the project's scope, key challenges encountered, and the solutions implemented.

• Demonstrate your ability to manage technical consultancies, including selection criteria, performance management, and issue resolution.

• Highlight your experience in analyzing and presenting project KPIs, illustrating how data-driven insights informed design decisions and project outcomes.

• Include examples of how you ensured adherence to project briefs, governance, and stakeholder requirements, with specific documentation or communication artifacts if possible. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of design management plans, governance frameworks, or stakeholder engagement strategies you have developed or implemented.

• Showcase your approach to managing project deliverables, ensuring coordination between different design disciplines and consultancies.

• Illustrate your methods for analyzing and reporting on project performance metrics, including KPIs related to design progress, quality, and budget.

• Detail your understanding and application of net zero carbon principles within the design and construction process.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating hands-on experience in managing complex civil design projects and consultancies is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their processes for managing teams, ensuring compliance, and driving performance through data analysis.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the role's seniority (10+ years experience), location (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), and the scale of the projects involved (one of the largest programs in Saudi Arabia), a competitive salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for senior Design Managers on major infrastructure projects in the GCC region, the estimated annual salary range is likely between SAR 450,000 to SAR 700,000 (approximately USD 120,000 to USD 187,000). This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the precise scope of responsibilities within the project.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Covering the employee and potentially dependents, adhering to Saudi Arabian standards.

• Accommodation Allowance/Provided Housing: Common for expatriates or senior staff working on large projects in Saudi Arabia.

• Transportation Allowance/Provided Transport: To facilitate commuting to the project site.

• Annual Leave: Generous paid annual leave, typically 25-30 days, plus public holidays.

• Flights Home: Annual or bi-annual return flights for employees and dependents if based on an expatriate contract.

• Relocation Assistance: Support for moving expenses and initial settling-in period.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuous learning aligned with Mace's values and industry advancements.

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

• Life and Disability Insurance: Standard corporate insurance coverage.

• Contribution to Retirement/Pension Plan: As per local regulations or company policy.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, spread over 5-6 days.

• Expected working hours are approximately 8 hours per day.

• Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and attend critical meetings, which could involve occasional overtime or working outside standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on market research for senior engineering and construction management roles in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, considering the project's magnitude and Mace's reputation as a global consultancy. Benefits are typical for large international projects in the region, designed to attract and retain experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Project Management, Consultancy, Engineering, Real Estate Development. Mace operates at the intersection of these sectors, providing end-to-end solutions from concept to completion.

Company Size: Mace is a global company with over 7,000 employees worldwide. This indicates a substantial organizational structure with established processes and a wide network of expertise.

Founded: Mace was founded in 1990. With over three decades of experience, the company has a strong legacy and a proven track record in delivering complex projects across various sectors.

Team Structure:

• The Design Management team is likely integrated within a larger project delivery organization, potentially reporting to a Program Director or Head of Design.

• This role will manage a team of design managers and coordinators, working closely with architects, engineers, consultants, and contractors.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring close liaison with project controls, commercial teams, construction management, HSE (Health, Safety, Environment), and client representatives. Methodology:

• Mace emphasizes a data-driven and client-focused approach, aiming to deliver strategic outcomes and build long-term relationships.

• The company champions a continuous improvement culture, encouraging innovation and the adoption of best practices in all activities.

• Safety is paramount, with a strong focus on "Safety First - Going Home Safe and Well," integrated into all operational processes.

• Their approach likely involves robust project governance, risk management, and the application of advanced project management methodologies.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's global presence and focus on values like safety, client focus, integrity, and creating opportunity suggest a professional and structured work environment that values expertise, collaboration, and employee development. The emphasis on large-scale projects implies a demanding yet rewarding operational context.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior management level, requiring extensive experience (10+ years) in civil design management for large-scale infrastructure. It involves significant responsibility for team leadership, project success, and strategic contribution.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager typically reports to a senior project executive, such as a Program Director or Head of Design Management. They, in turn, will manage a team of design professionals. This structure ensures clear lines of accountability and communication within the project hierarchy.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping the technical and functional aspects of major infrastructure projects. Their decisions directly influence project cost, schedule, quality, safety, and long-term sustainability. Effective design management is critical for achieving the project's overall strategic objectives and delivering value to the client.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to roles such as Head of Design Management, Program Director, or specialized technical director positions within Mace.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on other high-profile projects in different regions where Mace operates.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas like sustainable infrastructure design, advanced BIM (Building Information Modeling) integration, or specific project typologies.

• Mentorship & Training: Opportunities to mentor junior staff and participate in Mace's comprehensive learning and development programs, including leadership training and technical skill enhancement.

• Strategic Contribution: Involvement in Mace's strategic planning, business development, and the development of new methodologies and standards for design management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+ years" experience level suggests a role that is not entry-level management but rather a position for seasoned professionals ready to lead significant design functions. Growth paths are clearly defined, offering both vertical advancement and opportunities for specialization or broader international exposure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily "On-site," indicating a significant presence at the project location in Riyadh. This will likely involve a combination of project site offices and potentially a main project management office (PMO) within Riyadh.

Office Location(s): Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This implies working within a dynamic urban development environment that is part of a major national program.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be dynamic, involving frequent site visits to monitor progress and collaborate with construction teams.

• Access to advanced project management software, BIM platforms, and communication tools will be standard.

• Collaboration will be a key aspect, with opportunities to interact daily with a diverse team of engineers, consultants, contractors, and client representatives.

• The environment will be fast-paced, demanding, and focused on delivering complex technical solutions under tight deadlines. Work Schedule:

• Standard work schedule is likely 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday or Saturday.

• Project demands may necessitate occasional work outside these hours to meet critical milestones or attend urgent meetings, especially given the international nature of the project and potential time zone differences with other stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" requirement suggests a hands-on role deeply embedded within the project's execution. Candidates should be prepared for a demanding environment that requires strong on-site presence and frequent interaction with various project teams and stakeholders.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will conduct an initial assessment of your CV and experience against the core requirements, focusing on your civil infrastructure and design management background.

2. Technical Interview: Conducted by a hiring manager or senior technical lead within Mace. This stage will delve into your technical expertise in civil design, roads and bridges, and your experience managing design consultancies. Expect scenario-based questions.

3. Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio. This is where you demonstrate your impact, problem-solving skills, and process methodologies.

4. Cultural Fit / Behavioral Interview: Assesses your alignment with Mace's values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) and your ability to work effectively in a team environment. Questions will focus on past experiences demonstrating these values.

5. Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or program director, focusing on strategic fit, leadership capabilities, and overall suitability for the role and the large-scale program.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select Relevant Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in large-scale civil infrastructure (Roads & Bridges) and design management.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the design management process you followed, key decisions made, how you managed consultancies, any KPIs you tracked, and the ultimate outcomes and lessons learned.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use data and metrics (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, risk mitigation) to demonstrate the impact of your work.

• Highlight Process & Methodology: Be ready to articulate your approach to design governance, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and quality assurance.

• Demonstrate Net Zero Integration: If possible, include examples of how you incorporated sustainability principles or managed emissions in your past projects.

• Presentation Skills: Practice your presentation to ensure clarity, conciseness, and confidence. Be prepared for follow-up questions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving abilities in design management contexts (e.g., "How would you handle a significant design change request late in the project lifecycle?" or "What steps would you take if a key design consultant was underperforming?").

• Think about how you would approach managing stakeholder expectations on a project of this scale.

• Consider how you would champion and implement net zero carbon initiatives within a large infrastructure project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to rigorously assess both technical competence and behavioral fit. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates your responsibilities, processes, and impact on previous projects is paramount for success in the portfolio review stage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with platforms like Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking on large infrastructure projects.

• BIM (Building Information Modeling) Software: Familiarity with BIM tools and workflows (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, Bentley Systems) for design coordination, clash detection, and visualization.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms like Aconex, Procore, or SharePoint for managing project documentation, drawings, and communications.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to use tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, Power Query), potentially Power BI or Tableau for analyzing KPIs, performance data, and generating reports.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience creating or utilizing dashboards for visual representation of project status, risks, and performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design interfaces with commercial and client management systems is beneficial. Experience with any client-facing project management portals or systems used by Mace or its clients would be advantageous.

• Workflow Automation: Awareness of how workflows can be automated within design management processes (e.g., RFI processes, submittal reviews) to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools essential for managing complex, large-scale construction projects. Proficiency in BIM and robust project management software is critical for this role, reflecting the industry's move towards digital project delivery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First - Going Home Safe and Well: A non-negotiable value. Expect a culture where safety is proactively managed, discussed daily, and forms the basis of all operational decisions. This applies to design considerations as well (e.g., safe-by-design principles).

• Client Focus - Deliver on Our Promise: Emphasis on understanding client needs, translating them into tangible project outcomes, and building enduring relationships through reliable delivery and high-quality work.

• Integrity - Always Do the Right Thing: Expect a commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and compliance with all regulations and contractual obligations. This influences decision-making in design choices, consultant selection, and stakeholder interactions.

• Create Opportunity - For Our People to Excel: A culture that supports continuous improvement, professional development, and empowers individuals to take initiative and grow within the organization. This likely translates to opportunities for training, mentorship, and taking on new challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Highly collaborative, requiring seamless integration with construction, commercial, HSE, and client teams. Open communication channels are essential.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on design processes, project execution, and team performance to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across teams and projects, leveraging Mace's global network and Centers of Excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's stated values are integral to its operational culture. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how they embody these values in their daily work, particularly safety, client focus, and integrity, as these will be key indicators of cultural fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Scale and Complexity: Overseeing design for a major program with numerous interconnected packages (Roads and Bridges) presents significant coordination and integration challenges.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the diverse and potentially conflicting requirements of numerous stakeholders (client, government bodies, end-users, internal teams) on a large-scale development.

• Technical Innovation Integration: Introducing and managing new technologies or sustainable design approaches (like net zero carbon) within established project frameworks and potentially resistant teams.

• Consultancy Performance: Ensuring that multiple external design consultancies consistently meet Mace's quality, schedule, and budget expectations.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Working within a high-pressure, deadline-driven environment typical of major infrastructure projects in rapidly developing regions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Management Techniques: Gaining exposure to cutting-edge design management methodologies and tools used in mega-projects.

• Sustainable Construction Practices: Deepening expertise in net zero carbon strategies and their practical application in large-scale infrastructure.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to hone leadership skills through managing larger teams and more complex project phases.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional certifications and memberships relevant to civil engineering and project management.

• Networking: Building a strong professional network within the GCC region and internationally through Mace's extensive project portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior role on a mega-project, offering significant learning opportunities. Candidates who thrive in complex, dynamic environments and are motivated by large-scale impact will find this role particularly appealing.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing the design lifecycle of a large-scale Roads and Bridges package, from inception to handover." (Focus on phases, key deliverables, and management techniques.)

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and alignment between multiple technical design consultancies and the construction team on a complex infrastructure project?" (Highlight communication strategies, conflict resolution, and integration methods.)

• "Walk us through a situation where you had to implement or champion a sustainability initiative, such as net zero carbon principles, within a design project. What were the challenges and outcomes?" (Demonstrate your proactive approach to sustainability.)

• "How do you analyze and present KPIs to senior management to drive decision-making and improve project performance?" (Showcase your data analysis and reporting skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do Mace's values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) resonate with your professional approach, and can you provide an example of how you've demonstrated one of these values in a previous role?" (Prepare specific anecdotes.)

• "Describe your experience working in a multicultural, international project environment like the one in Saudi Arabia." (Highlight adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills.)

• "How do you foster a culture of continuous improvement and safety within your team?" (Focus on practical actions and leadership style.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each case study, use a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or a similar clear structure. Start with a concise overview of the project and your role.

• Visuals: Use diagrams, flowcharts, or simplified project maps to illustrate complex processes or project layouts. Include key metrics visually where possible.

• Consultancy Management: Dedicate a section to how you selected, managed, and evaluated design consultancies. Highlight your methods for ensuring quality and performance.

• Impact & Value: Clearly articulate the value you brought to the project – cost savings, schedule adherence, risk mitigation, quality improvements, or successful integration of sustainable practices.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Focus on the most impactful aspects of your experience and be ready for detailed follow-up questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh your ability to articulate complex processes, demonstrate leadership, and align with Mace's core values. A well-prepared, data-rich portfolio presentation is essential for showcasing your expertise effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Mace careers portal link provided.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your CV to highlight your experience in Design Management, Civils Infrastructure, Roads and Bridges Design, and Technical Consultancy Management. Quantify your achievements with specific metrics and project scale. Ensure keywords from the job description are naturally integrated.

• Portfolio Curation: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in managing large-scale civil design projects. Prepare concise summaries and key visuals for each, focusing on your role, processes, challenges, and outcomes.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering behavioral questions related to Mace's values and scenario-based questions about design management challenges. Prepare to present your portfolio case studies confidently and clearly.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Mace's global projects, their approach to sustainability (Net Zero Carbon), and their stated company values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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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