Design Manager (Stadiums)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (Stadiums)

Company: Mace

Location: Riyadh, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Construction Management / Design Leadership

Date Posted: 2026-08-10

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design management function for high-profile stadium and precinct transformation projects within Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

• Drive the implementation and adherence to robust design management systems, ensuring compliance with all statutory, contractual, and client-specific requirements.

• Provide strategic leadership and technical guidance to multidisciplinary design teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

• Oversee the entire design lifecycle from conceptualization through to construction, ensuring quality, safety, sustainability, and operational excellence are paramount.

• Act as a key liaison between project stakeholders, including clients, consultants, and internal teams, to ensure alignment and successful project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on large-scale stadium and sports infrastructure projects, requiring a deep understanding of FIFA standards and the complexities of multi-use venue design. The "Design Manager" title in this context signifies a senior leadership position responsible for the strategic direction and operational execution of the design process, rather than a purely creative design role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the safe, compliant, and sustainable delivery of design for major stadium and mixed-use developments, with a strong emphasis on quality, well-being, and operational excellence.

• Guide and mentor design management teams to achieve strategic project objectives, deliver desired project outcomes, and meet stringent performance targets.

• Oversee and refine design management systems, ensuring continuous compliance with all relevant statutory regulations, contractual obligations, and Mace's internal business requirements.

• Foster an environment of collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing within design teams and across the wider project, while actively supporting client relationships and contributing to business development initiatives.

• Supervise the end-to-end design delivery process, ensuring it remains aligned with the project's business plan targets, budget constraints, and schedule milestones.

• Guide design teams effectively, ensuring that all stakeholder needs are met and that project governance structures are rigorously followed.

• Present Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to design delivery, progress, and risk, and actively support business development efforts by showcasing Mace's capabilities.

• Drive collaboration, innovation, and carbon reduction initiatives through the establishment and utilization of a center of excellence and leveraging reach-back resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a strategic and managerial approach to design, focusing on process, compliance, stakeholder management, and performance metrics rather than hands-on design creation. The role requires a strong understanding of construction project management principles within a consultancy framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in a design-related field (e.g., Architecture, Engineering, Urban Planning) or a closely related discipline.

• Professional certification or chartered membership is mandatory, such as RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects), CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building), or RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors). Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in design management, project management, or a related leadership role within the construction or infrastructure sector.

• Proven track record of successfully delivering large-scale, complex stadium projects, ideally with experience in FIFA-compliant venues.

• Extensive experience in managing design consultants and multi-disciplinary teams throughout the entire project lifecycle. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Comprehensive understanding of design management principles, processes, and best practices for large-scale construction projects.

• Project Management: Strong project management acumen, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and quality control.

• Strategic Leadership: Ability to set strategic direction for design teams, inspire performance, and drive project objectives.

• BIM Expertise: Proficient knowledge and practical application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) throughout the design and construction phases.

• Prefabrication Knowledge: Understanding of prefabrication and modular construction techniques and their impact on design and delivery.

• Design Risk Management: Expertise in identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks.

• FIFA Stadium Standards: In-depth knowledge of international stadium design and operational standards, particularly those set by FIFA.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent ability to engage, communicate, and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders, including clients, government bodies, consultants, and internal teams.

• Governance & Compliance: Solid understanding of project governance frameworks, contractual requirements, and statutory compliance.

• KPI Reporting: Experience in defining, tracking, and reporting on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to design delivery and project performance.

Preferred Skills:

• Carbon Reduction: Familiarity with strategies and methodologies for driving carbon reduction in design and construction.

• Consultancy Acumen: Experience working within a project management consultancy environment.

• Construction Management: Broad understanding of construction methodologies and site operations.

• Technical Safety: Strong knowledge of technical safety standards and their integration into the design process.

• Business Development: Experience in contributing to business development initiatives and client engagement.

• Arabic Language Proficiency: While not explicitly stated, proficiency in Arabic could be advantageous for on-site communication and stakeholder engagement in Riyadh.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for chartered membership (RIBA, CIOB, RICS) indicates a need for a highly professional and accredited individual with a strong foundation in industry standards and ethics. The emphasis on "Proven experience in FIFA stadiums" and "Necessary visa criteria for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia" are critical and non-negotiable requirements for this specific role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Management Systems: Demonstrate experience in developing, implementing, and managing comprehensive design management systems for complex, multi-stakeholder projects. This should include examples of process flows, document control procedures, and compliance frameworks.

• Process Optimization Case Studies: Showcase case studies where you have successfully optimized design processes, leading to measurable improvements in efficiency, cost savings, quality, or risk reduction. Quantifiable results are essential.

• System Implementation Examples: Provide examples of implementing design-related systems (e.g., BIM execution plans, collaboration platforms, risk registers) and detail the challenges faced and solutions implemented.

• ROI Demonstration: For any process or system improvements presented, clearly articulate the return on investment (ROI) or value delivered to the project and client.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Documented experience in designing and refining end-to-end design workflows, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to detailed design, coordination, and handover.

• Implementation & Automation: Evidence of implementing new design processes or leveraging technology for automation within the design lifecycle. This could include BIM workflows, digital review processes, or data management strategies.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Experience in establishing metrics and KPIs for design delivery, and conducting regular performance analysis to identify areas for improvement and report on project status.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the senior nature of this role and its focus on project delivery in a high-stakes environment, a portfolio demonstrating structured thinking, process adherence, and quantifiable results will be crucial. The ability to articulate complex processes clearly and concisely will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the seniority (10+ years experience), the specialized nature of stadium design, the location (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), and the employer (Mace, a global consultancy), a competitive salary package is expected.

• For a Design Manager with this profile in Riyadh, a typical gross annual salary range could be estimated between SAR 400,000 to SAR 700,000 (approximately USD 106,000 to USD 186,000). This estimate is based on general market data for senior construction and project management roles in major Middle Eastern hubs and consultancy firms.

• Note: This is an estimate. The actual salary will depend on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Inclusive Working Environment: Mace emphasizes a safe, diverse, and inclusive workplace culture.

• Well-being Support: Commitment to employee well-being, recognizing its importance in performance.

• Flexible Working Options: Openness to discussing flexible working arrangements where feasible.

• Hybrid Working Options: Potential for hybrid working models, subject to project needs and role suitability.

• Part-time Working Options: The company is open to discussing part-time arrangements if appropriate for the role and candidate.

• Visa Sponsorship: The role includes visa sponsorship for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, a critical benefit for international candidates.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth within Mace's operations.

• Relocation Assistance: Likely to be provided for international hires, though specific details would need to be confirmed.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, aligning with the general industry standard.

• While the role is primarily on-site, Mace is open to discussing flexible working options, which may offer some adaptability around the core working schedule, depending on project demands and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is a benchmark. It's crucial for candidates to research current market rates for similar roles in Riyadh, considering the specific demands of stadium projects and the consultancy sector. The inclusion of visa sponsorship is a significant factor for candidates requiring relocation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction Consultancy and Project Management. Mace operates at the intersection of construction expertise and strategic consultancy, delivering complex projects across various sectors.

Company Size: Mace is a large global company, employing thousands of professionals worldwide. This scale offers access to extensive resources, diverse expertise, and a broad network.

Founded: Mace was founded in 1990, bringing over three decades of experience in delivering transformative projects globally.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger project management consultancy team based in Riyadh, focused on major infrastructure and development projects. This team will comprise specialists in project controls, construction management, commercial management, and technical disciplines.

• Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior project director or program director and will lead a team of design managers, coordinators, and potentially specialists in areas like BIM or sustainability.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: This role necessitates extensive collaboration with client representatives, architectural and engineering consultants, specialist contractors, and Mace's internal technical and commercial departments.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Mace emphasizes a data-driven approach to project management, using analytics to inform decisions and track performance.

• Process Excellence: A strong focus on implementing and refining standardized processes to ensure consistency, quality, and efficiency across projects.

• Innovation & Sustainability: A commitment to driving innovation in design and construction, with a particular focus on sustainability and carbon reduction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's global presence and established reputation suggest a professional, structured, and results-oriented work environment. The company's stated values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) are likely to be integrated into daily operations and performance expectations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the operations and project delivery framework. It sits at the intersection of design strategy and project execution, demanding both technical depth and leadership capability. The scope of responsibility for large stadium projects indicates a significant level of autonomy and impact.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager typically reports to a Program Director or Senior Project Director, overseeing a dedicated design management function. They will also collaborate extensively with other senior project leads (e.g., Commercial Manager, Construction Manager) and may have direct reports.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is critical to the overall success of these mega-projects. Effective design management ensures that projects are delivered on time, within budget, to the required quality standards, and meet all functional and operational requirements. Their work directly influences project risk, client satisfaction, and the long-term viability and performance of the delivered assets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into roles such as Head of Design, Program Design Director, or broader Project Director positions for larger or multiple programs.

• Specialization Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas like sustainable design, digital construction, or advanced stadium technology through specialized projects or training.

• International Mobility: As a global firm, Mace offers opportunities to work on projects in different regions, broadening experience and cultural understanding.

• Mentorship & Training: Access to Mace's internal development programs, mentorship schemes, and potentially funding for advanced certifications or further education in project or design management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager in a firm like Mace is typically one of increasing responsibility on larger and more complex projects, leading to executive-level oversight of design and delivery functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "On-site," indicating a primary work location within the project vicinity or a dedicated project office in Riyadh. This is typical for large-scale construction and infrastructure projects where close proximity to the site and stakeholders is essential.

Office Location(s): Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This implies working within a dynamic and rapidly developing urban environment known for its ambitious mega-projects.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a highly collaborative office setting, likely a project site office or a dedicated consultancy hub in Riyadh. This environment will facilitate close interaction with project teams, consultants, and client representatives.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard project management software, BIM platforms, communication tools, and potentially advanced visualization technologies.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with a diverse range of professionals, including engineers, architects, project managers, and construction personnel, fostering a dynamic and knowledge-rich exchange.

Work Schedule: While the standard work week is typically 40 hours, the nature of large-scale project delivery, especially in regions like Saudi Arabia, can sometimes require flexibility to meet critical deadlines or address urgent issues. However, the company's openness to discussing flexible working options suggests an effort to balance project demands with employee needs where possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation is firm, underscoring the need for physical presence and engagement with the project environment. However, the mention of flexible and hybrid options suggests that while the primary location is fixed, there might be some room for discussion on work patterns within that on-site context.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team will review applications to ensure basic qualifications and visa eligibility are met.

• Technical Interview: Likely to involve senior members of the project management team or Mace leadership. Expect in-depth questions about your experience in design management, stadium projects, BIM, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. You may be asked to walk through specific projects from your CV.

• Case Study/Presentation: A common element for senior roles. You might be asked to prepare a presentation on a past project, focusing on your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes, or to address a hypothetical design management scenario relevant to stadium development.

• Cultural Fit & Values Alignment: Interviews will assess alignment with Mace's core values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) and your ability to integrate into the team culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a very senior executive or client representative.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Relevance: Focus on projects that directly showcase your experience with large-scale stadiums, complex infrastructure, and international projects.

Highlight your role in design management, not just general project management.

• Structure Case Studies: For each key project, clearly outline:

  • Project Context: Scale, type, location, key stakeholders.
  • Your Role & Responsibilities: Specific design management duties.
  • Challenges: Technical, logistical, stakeholder-related.
  • Solutions Implemented: Your strategic and tactical approach to design challenges.
  • Outcomes & Impact: Quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, risk mitigation, successful FIFA compliance).

• Demonstrate Process Mastery: Show examples of design management plans, BIM execution plans, risk registers, or process improvement initiatives you've led.

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, charts, and high-quality images to illustrate your points. For BIM, consider short video walkthroughs or detailed renderings.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Management Scenarios: Be prepared for questions about how you would handle common design challenges, such as scope creep, design clashes, consultant underperformance, or integrating new sustainability requirements.

• Stakeholder Communication: Practice articulating complex technical information clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Risk Assessment: Be ready to discuss your approach to identifying and mitigating design risks specific to stadium projects.

• Mace Values: Prepare examples of how you have embodied Mace's values in your previous roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on FIFA stadiums and Saudi Arabian requirements means that candidates must be prepared to demonstrate highly specific knowledge and experience in these areas during the interview process. A well-prepared portfolio that directly addresses these points will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Management Software: Experience with platforms for document control, workflow management, and collaboration (e.g., Aconex, Procore, BIM 360 Docs).

• BIM Software & Platforms: Proficiency with BIM tools (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) for coordination, clash detection, and visualization. Understanding of BIM standards and execution plans is crucial.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with comprehensive project management suites (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project) for scheduling and resource planning.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools for team communication and information sharing (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Visualization Tools: Experience with tools like Power BI or Tableau for creating dashboards and reports on design progress, KPIs, and risk.

• Reporting Systems: Ability to generate detailed reports on design status, compliance, and performance for various stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding how design inputs affect commercial aspects and client relationships might involve familiarity with CRM principles.

• Automation Tools: Understanding of how automation can be applied in design workflows, such as automated clash detection reports or data extraction from BIM models.

• Integration Tools: Awareness of how different software platforms can be integrated to streamline data flow and improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific software mentioned are industry standards for large-scale construction projects. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency level and how they have leveraged these tools to drive design management success.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First - Going Home Safe and Well: A paramount value, expecting all team members to prioritize safety in their actions, decisions, and design considerations. This includes promoting a culture where well-being is actively supported.

• Client Focus - Deliver on Our Promise: Emphasis on owning the quality of design deliverables and strategic outcomes, building and maintaining strong, long-term client relationships through consistent performance and reliability.

• Integrity - Always Do the Right Thing: Upholding ethical standards, ensuring compliance with all regulations, and influencing positive outcomes within the industry through honest and transparent dealings.

• Create Opportunity - For Our People to Excel: Fostering a continuous improvement mindset, encouraging personal and professional development, and creating an environment where individuals and teams can achieve their full potential.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role demands seamless collaboration with diverse teams across design, construction, commercial, and client-side functions. Open communication and a shared understanding of project goals are essential.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages regular review of design processes and constructive feedback exchange to drive continuous improvement and problem-solving.

• Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in sharing best practices, lessons learned, and innovative ideas, particularly through initiatives like a "center of excellence" to elevate the collective expertise within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's values are deeply embedded in its operations. Candidates will be assessed on their ability to demonstrate how their professional conduct and decision-making align with these core principles, particularly in high-pressure project environments.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Mega-Projects: Managing the intricate web of stakeholders, technical requirements, and timelines inherent in stadium development.

• Regulatory Compliance in KSA: Navigating and ensuring adherence to Saudi Arabian building codes, safety regulations, and specific client/government approvals.

• Balancing Innovation with Tradition: Integrating cutting-edge design and technology (like advanced BIM or sustainable materials) while respecting established stadium design principles and operational needs.

• Cultural and Language Barriers: Effectively communicating and collaborating across diverse cultural backgrounds and potentially language differences within the project team and with local authorities.

• Sustainability & Carbon Footprint: Meeting ambitious targets for carbon reduction and environmental sustainability in large-scale construction projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepening expertise in design management, project controls, risk management, and contract administration within complex infrastructure projects.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Opportunities to attend leading industry events and pursue advanced certifications relevant to construction management, design, or specific technologies like BIM.

• Mentorship & Leadership Development: Access to formal mentorship programs and leadership training designed to prepare individuals for more senior roles within Mace's global operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are significant but also offer substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development, particularly in managing complex international projects and leading large teams.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience managing the design process for a FIFA-compliant stadium. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure compliance with FIFA's technical and safety requirements?"

• "How have you implemented and managed design management systems on large-scale projects? Can you provide an example of a system you improved and the impact it had?"

• "Discuss your approach to stakeholder management on complex infrastructure projects. How do you ensure alignment between clients, consultants, and contractors, especially when there are conflicting priorities?"

• "How do you foster innovation and collaboration within design teams? Can you share an example of an innovative solution you championed?"

• "What is your strategy for driving carbon reduction in the design of large venues like stadiums?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do Mace's core values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) resonate with your professional philosophy and past experiences?"

• "Describe a time you had to uphold integrity in a challenging situation on a project."

• "How would you contribute to Mace's 'Create Opportunity' value within your team and in your professional development?"

• "What are your expectations regarding collaboration within a project team in Riyadh, and how do you adapt to different cultural working styles?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a high-level overview of your career and key achievements, then dive into 2-3 detailed case studies of relevant stadium projects. For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results.

• Quantify & Visualize: Use data, charts, and visuals to support your narrative. Show specific metrics related to cost, schedule, quality, and risk reduction. For BIM, use visual aids to demonstrate coordination and clash detection.

• Focus on Design Management: Emphasize your strategic and managerial contributions to the design process, rather than just general project oversight. Highlight your leadership in team management, process implementation, and problem-solving.

• Tailor to Mace & KSA: Demonstrate an understanding of Mace's values and the specific context of delivering projects in Saudi Arabia, including relevant regulations and cultural nuances.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific technical aspects of your projects, your decision-making processes, and how you handled unforeseen challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Clash Resolution: Be ready to describe how you would identify and resolve design clashes in a complex BIM model involving multiple disciplines.

• Risk Management Scenario: Prepare to discuss how you would proactively manage design risks on a stadium project, including identifying potential risks and mitigation strategies.

• Stakeholder Conflict Resolution: Outline your approach to mediating a dispute between a key consultant and the client regarding a design element.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare specific, STAR-method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) examples for all behavioral and situational questions. Demonstrating a clear understanding of stadium-specific design challenges and the Saudi Arabian regulatory environment will be crucial for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Navigate to the provided application link on the Mace Careers portal and submit your comprehensive application.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your direct experience with stadium design, FIFA standards, BIM, and project management consultancy. Ensure your portfolio is readily accessible and showcases your most relevant stadium projects with a focus on design management.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your 10+ years of experience, chartered status, and specific expertise in design management, BIM, prefabrication, and risk management. Use keywords from the job description and highlight quantifiable achievements.

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly research Mace, its values, and its current projects in Riyadh. Prepare detailed examples for behavioral and technical questions, focusing on your stadium project experience and leadership capabilities. Practice presenting your portfolio, emphasizing your design management impact and ROI.

• Company & Cultural Research: Understand Mace's global presence, its approach to project delivery, and its core values. Research the current landscape of stadium development in Saudi Arabia to demonstrate informed interest and strategic thinking.

⚠️ 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.