Design Manager - Master Planning

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Master Planning

Company: Egis Group

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Urban Planning & Design / Master Planning

Date Posted: 2026-09-21T09:59:42.421

Experience Level: 15+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic vision and execution of large-scale master planning initiatives, driving the development of innovative urban environments.

• Manage and mentor multidisciplinary design and planning teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture focused on achieving project objectives.

• Oversee the entire master planning lifecycle, from conceptualization and feasibility studies to detailed design development and stakeholder engagement.

• Ensure comprehensive alignment of master plans with client visions, stringent local regulations, market demands, sustainability principles, and Egis Group's organizational standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership opportunity within Egis Group's Middle East operations, specifically focusing on their "Energy and Sustainable Cities" business line within Architecture. The emphasis on large-scale projects and multidisciplinary team management suggests a critical role in shaping urban development in a key growth region.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the conceptualization, development, and end-to-end execution of complex master planning projects, ensuring successful project delivery from inception to completion.

• Provide strong leadership and mentorship to a diverse team of designers, urban planners, and technical specialists, cultivating an environment of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Conduct thorough site analysis, demographic assessments, and feasibility studies to generate data-driven insights that inform strategic planning recommendations and design decisions.

• Develop detailed and compelling master plans leveraging advanced industry-standard design software and sophisticated modeling tools to visualize and communicate project concepts.

• Act as a key liaison, coordinating effectively with a wide array of stakeholders including clients, municipal authorities, consultants, and internal teams to ensure seamless project alignment with regulatory frameworks and local development guidelines.

• Perform in-depth analysis of market trends, demographic shifts, and economic indicators to strategically inform design strategies, optimize project viability, and maximize commercial success.

• Prepare and deliver high-impact design proposals, compelling visualizations, and comprehensive reports to clients and internal leadership, effectively articulating design intent and project value.

• Manage all aspects of project finance, including budget oversight, resource allocation, and timeline management, to ensure efficient and cost-effective project delivery.

• Champion and integrate sustainability standards and best practices in urban design and environmental planning throughout all project phases, ensuring alignment with Egis Group's commitment to resilient territorial development.

• Implement rigorous review processes for all design deliverables, ensuring adherence to organizational quality standards, client expectations, and regulatory compliance.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving best practices in master planning and urban design to drive continuous innovation and strategic advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic leadership, technical expertise in master planning, and strong stakeholder management, typical for a senior role in a large international engineering and consulting firm operating in a dynamic market like Saudi Arabia. The emphasis on sustainability and client vision translation is crucial.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, Urban Design, Landscape Architecture, or a closely related field. A Master's degree in a relevant discipline is highly preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of 15 years of progressive professional experience specifically in master planning, urban design, or large-scale development project management.

• Demonstrated track record of successfully leading and delivering comprehensive master plans for diverse project types, including mixed-use, residential, commercial, and integrated urban developments. Required Skills:

• Expertise in developing comprehensive master plans for large-scale urban and real estate developments.

• Advanced proficiency in industry-leading design and planning software, including AutoCAD, Revit, GIS platforms (e.g., Esri ArcGIS), and advanced 3D modeling tools (e.g., SketchUp, 3ds Max, Rhino).

• In-depth understanding of building codes, zoning regulations, land use policies, and local planning standards, with a strong preference for familiarity with Saudi Arabian regulations.

• Proven experience in managing and leading multidisciplinary design teams, fostering collaboration and ensuring high-quality output.

• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with a proven ability to synthesize complex datasets and translate them into actionable, innovative design strategies.

• Superior presentation and communication skills, adept at articulating complex design concepts and technical information to diverse audiences, including clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.

• Robust project management skills encompassing budget oversight, scheduling, resource allocation, and risk management for large-scale projects.

• Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows and advanced visualization techniques to enhance design communication and project understanding.

• Solid knowledge of sustainable design principles, green building standards (e.g., LEED, Estidama), and their practical application in master planning.

• Proficiency in stakeholder management, client relationship building, and negotiation to ensure project success and alignment.

• Strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to effectively manage multiple complex projects concurrently. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with the Middle Eastern market dynamics, development context, and regulatory landscape is highly desirable.

• Experience with advanced urban analytics and simulation tools.

• Knowledge of economic feasibility studies and market analysis specific to real estate development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level (15+ years) and the specific software proficiencies (AutoCAD, Revit, GIS, 3D modeling) are critical for this senior role. The preference for Saudi Arabian regulations indicates a need for localized expertise. The emphasis on BIM and sustainability aligns with modern urban development practices.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 large-scale master planning projects, demonstrating a clear progression from concept to detailed implementation plans.

• Evidence of successful stakeholder engagement and client collaboration within portfolio case studies, highlighting problem-solving approaches and decision-making processes.

• Demonstrated use of advanced design and planning software (AutoCAD, Revit, GIS, 3D modeling) in portfolio projects, illustrating technical proficiency and workflow efficiency.

• Inclusion of projects that clearly articulate the integration of sustainability principles, environmental considerations, and best practices in urban design, with measurable outcomes where possible. Process Documentation:

• Examples of developed workflow diagrams and process maps for master planning projects, illustrating a structured approach to project phases and interdependencies.

• Documentation showcasing experience in implementing and optimizing design processes, including methodologies for design reviews, quality assurance, and cross-functional team coordination.

• Case studies detailing the measurement and analysis of project performance against defined metrics, with a focus on efficiency improvements, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, the portfolio is paramount. It needs to demonstrate not just design output but also strategic thinking, process management, team leadership, and the ability to integrate complex requirements like sustainability and stakeholder needs into practical master plans. The emphasis on process documentation highlights the need for structured project execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• An estimated annual salary range of SAR 450,000 - SAR 700,000 (approx. USD $120,000 - $187,000) is anticipated for this senior role in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This range is based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 15+ years of experience in large-scale master planning within the Middle East market, considering the cost of living and demand for specialized expertise in the region. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employee and dependents, including medical, dental, and vision.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays observed in Saudi Arabia.

• Relocation assistance package for expatriate hires, potentially including temporary housing, moving expenses, and visa processing support.

• Professional development opportunities, including access to training programs, workshops, industry conferences, and support for relevant certifications.

• Retirement savings plan or end-of-service benefits in accordance with Saudi labor law and company policy.

• Opportunities for international travel and exposure to diverse projects within the Egis Group network. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, due to the nature of large-scale project management, occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and client needs, potentially including extended hours or weekend work during critical phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation for senior roles in Saudi Arabia requires consideration of the local market, the firm's standing, and the specific demands of the role. Benefits are often comprehensive for international hires in this region. The working hours note acknowledges the typical demands of project management.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Consulting, Engineering, Mobility Services, Infrastructure Development. Egis Group operates at the intersection of these sectors, with a strong focus on creating intelligent and sustainable infrastructure.

Company Size: 23,500+ employees globally, with 3,500+ employees across 8 countries in the Middle East. This indicates a large, established international organization with a significant regional presence.

Founded: Egis Group has a long operational history, though the specific founding year isn't provided, their extensive experience in the Middle East and involvement in "complex development projects" suggests decades of operation.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely lead a dedicated Master Planning team within the Architecture service line, which falls under the "Energy and Sustainable Cities" business line. This team will comprise designers, urban planners, and technical specialists.

• Reporting is expected to be to a senior executive within the Architecture or Urban Development division in the Middle East, with close collaboration with project directors and client representatives.

• Cross-functional collaboration will be extensive, involving engineers, environmental consultants, commercial advisors, and potentially Egis's mobility and construction engineering departments, reflecting the integrated nature of large infrastructure projects. Methodology:

• Egis Group emphasizes a data-driven approach, utilizing advanced analytics and modeling tools for site analysis, feasibility studies, and design optimization.

• Their methodology centers on developing sustainable and resilient urban solutions, integrating environmental considerations from the outset of the master planning process.

• A strong focus on innovation and leveraging cutting-edge technologies is evident, aiming to provide accessible and effective project solutions globally.

Company Website: https://www.egis-group.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Egis Group's description positions them as a global leader committed to sustainability and innovation. The significant presence in the Middle East and their focus on large-scale projects suggest a dynamic and challenging work environment. The "Energy and Sustainable Cities" business line is particularly relevant to the role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior leadership level, functioning as a Design Manager. It requires extensive experience and the ability to independently lead complex, large-scale master planning projects. The scope includes strategic decision-making, team management, and significant client interaction.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President within Egis Group's Middle East Architecture or Urban Development division. They will manage a team of planners and designers and collaborate extensively with project managers, engineering leads, and business development teams.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly influences the strategic direction and physical form of major urban developments. Their master plans form the foundational framework for significant investments, impacting economic growth, sustainability outcomes, and the quality of life for future residents and users. Their role is critical in translating client vision into tangible, viable, and impactful urban environments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential progression to Director-level roles overseeing larger divisions or multiple business lines within the Middle East or globally.

• Strategic Development: Opportunity to shape Egis Group's master planning strategy and service offerings in a rapidly developing region.

• Expert Specialization: Deepen expertise in sustainable urban development, smart cities, or specific project typologies (e.g., large mixed-use developments, new city planning).

• Global Mobility: Potential to transfer to other international Egis Group offices or lead global initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a pivotal role with significant potential for career advancement within a global organization. The impact is substantial, directly shaping urban landscapes and influencing economic and social development. The growth paths are aligned with senior leadership in the consulting and engineering sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Egis Group operates from modern, professional office spaces designed to foster collaboration and efficiency. The Riyadh office is likely equipped with advanced technology to support design and planning activities.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Egis Group has a strong presence across the Middle East, with offices in multiple countries, suggesting potential for regional project involvement or collaboration.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, requiring close interaction with a multidisciplinary team of designers, planners, engineers, and project managers.

• Access to state-of-the-art design software, hardware, and visualization tools will be standard.

• Opportunities for direct engagement with senior leadership, clients, and external consultants will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and interactive professional environment.

Work Schedule: While the standard work week is Monday to Friday, the demands of managing large-scale, high-profile projects in a dynamic market like Saudi Arabia may necessitate occasional flexibility in working hours to meet critical deadlines or client engagement requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by professional settings, advanced tools, and a collaborative culture essential for complex project delivery in the architecture and urban planning domain. The Riyadh location places the role at the heart of significant development initiatives in Saudi Arabia.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and portfolio by HR and the hiring manager to assess experience, qualifications, and alignment with role requirements.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on master planning expertise, design methodologies, software proficiency, and project management experience. This may include a portfolio walkthrough.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates might be asked to prepare and present a hypothetical master planning scenario or a detailed case study from their past experience, demonstrating their approach to problem-solving, strategic thinking, and communication.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management capabilities, stakeholder engagement approach, and cultural alignment with Egis Group's values.

• Final Interview: Likely with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment, long-term vision, and final offer negotiation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best exemplify your leadership in master planning, demonstrating strategic vision, innovative design solutions, sustainability integration, and successful project outcomes.

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your role, the design process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the final results. Use diagrams, timelines, and key metrics to illustrate your approach.

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your experience in managing multidisciplinary teams, coordinating with stakeholders, and driving project progress.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, include quantifiable results such as project scale, budget managed, efficiency gains, or sustainability achievements.

• Tailor to Egis: Research Egis Group's recent projects and strategic priorities, particularly in the Middle East, and subtly tailor your presentation to resonate with their focus areas like sustainable cities and smart infrastructure.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate questions related to urban development challenges in the Middle East, sustainable design strategies, managing complex stakeholder expectations, and integrating new technologies into master plans.

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to team leadership, conflict resolution within design teams, and ensuring quality control across diverse project deliverables.

• Practice articulating your design philosophy and how it aligns with creating resilient and livable urban environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role like this will be rigorous, emphasizing both technical competence and leadership qualities. A well-prepared portfolio is critical, serving as the primary evidence of capability and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD (essential for 2D drafting and site plans).

• BIM Software: Revit (for 3D modeling, design coordination, and data management).

• GIS Software: Esri ArcGIS suite (for spatial analysis, data visualization, land use planning, and environmental assessment).

• 3D Modeling & Visualization: SketchUp, 3ds Max, Rhino, Lumion, or similar (for creating compelling visual representations of master plans).

• Project Management Software: Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar (for scheduling, resource allocation, and budget tracking).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Excel (advanced functions), potentially statistical software or BI tools for analyzing demographic and market data.

• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in generating comprehensive reports using standard office suites (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite) and presentation software.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly customer-facing, understanding CRM principles for stakeholder management and client relationship tracking may be beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools could be advantageous for optimizing internal design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in a suite of design, planning, and visualization software is non-negotiable. The role requires expertise in tools that support spatial analysis, 3D modeling, and comprehensive project management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Sustainability & Resilience: A core value driving the development of environmentally conscious and long-term viable urban solutions.

• Innovation & Excellence: Commitment to pushing boundaries in design and engineering, delivering high-quality, cutting-edge projects.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Emphasis on working effectively with clients, stakeholders, and internal teams to achieve shared goals.

• Integrity & Responsibility: Upholding ethical standards and taking accountability for delivering impactful and responsible development projects.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations through tailored solutions and exceptional service.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: A highly collaborative approach is expected, with seamless integration between design, engineering, environmental, and commercial disciplines.

• Open Communication: Encouragement of open dialogue, constructive feedback, and knowledge sharing among team members and across departments.

• Proactive Engagement: A proactive stance in engaging with clients and stakeholders to build strong relationships and ensure alignment throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Egis Group's values point towards a professional, forward-thinking, and collaborative work environment. The emphasis on sustainability and client-centricity is likely to shape daily operations and decision-making processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Adapting to and effectively integrating Saudi Arabian planning regulations, building codes, and cultural nuances into master plans.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse and sometimes competing interests of multiple stakeholders, including government entities, private developers, and community representatives.

• Rapid Development Environment: Keeping pace with the accelerated development timelines and ambitious visions prevalent in Saudi Arabia's major urban projects.

• Sustainability Integration: Ensuring that ambitious sustainability goals are practically and economically feasible within large-scale master plans.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Regional Expertise: Deepen understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the Middle East's rapidly evolving urban development landscape.

• Leadership Training: Access to Egis Group's leadership development programs to enhance management and strategic planning skills.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to engage with leading industry bodies, attend international conferences, and stay at the forefront of urban design and planning innovation.

• Mentorship: Potential for mentorship from senior leaders within Egis Group, providing guidance on career progression and strategic development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior roles in major emerging markets, requiring adaptability, strong negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of local context. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering both professional development and career advancement within a global firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a master plan for a large-scale, mixed-use development in a rapidly growing city like Riyadh, considering sustainability and economic viability." (Focus on process, data integration, stakeholder engagement.)

• "How do you lead and motivate multidisciplinary design teams to achieve ambitious project goals under tight deadlines?" (Highlight leadership style, conflict resolution, team building.)

• "Walk us through a challenging master planning project you managed. What were the key challenges, your strategic approach, and the ultimate outcomes?" (Emphasize problem-solving, decision-making, and quantifiable results.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Egis Group and specifically this Design Manager role in Riyadh?" (Demonstrate research into Egis's mission, values, and projects, especially in the Middle East.)

• "How do you ensure that sustainability principles are not just an add-on but are integral to the master planning process?" (Align with Egis's commitment to sustainable development.)

• "Describe your experience working with diverse teams and stakeholders in a cross-cultural environment." (Showcase adaptability and strong interpersonal skills relevant to the Middle East context.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a high-level overview of your career and key achievements, then dive into 2-3 selected projects. For each project, clearly define the scope, your role, the design process, key challenges, innovative solutions, sustainability integration, stakeholder management, and final outcomes.

• Visuals: Use high-quality visuals – site plans, renders, diagrams, and charts – to convey your design intent and technical capabilities effectively.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, focusing on the strategic thinking and problem-solving involved. Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., project scale, density, green space percentage).

• Engagement: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your design choices, software usage, and project management approach. Encourage discussion and interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic leadership, technical mastery of master planning, and a strong understanding of the regional context and Egis Group's values. The portfolio is the central piece of evidence.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Egis Group careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is meticulously organized and tailored to highlight your most relevant large-scale master planning projects, specifically those involving mixed-use developments, urban design, and sustainable practices. Prepare a concise executive summary for your portfolio.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to prominently feature keywords related to master planning, urban design, project management, BIM, sustainability, and relevant software (AutoCAD, Revit, GIS). Quantify achievements and leadership responsibilities with specific metrics.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on clear communication of strategy, process, and impact.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Egis Group's global presence, their "Energy and Sustainable Cities" business line, recent projects in the Middle East, and their stated values. Understand their approach to urban development and sustainability to better align your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.