Design Manager – Architect

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager – Architect
Company: Parsons Corporation
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates / Abha, Saudi Arabia
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Design Management / Architecture / Hospitality Operations
Date Posted: October 27, 2025
Experience Level: 18+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the architectural and interior design strategy for high-profile luxury hospitality projects, ensuring seamless integration of design vision with operational excellence and brand standards.
• Drive innovation in design concepts by staying abreast of global luxury trends and guest experience enhancements, translating these into iconic and functional spaces.
• Oversee and mentor multidisciplinary design teams, fostering a collaborative environment focused on achieving superior quality outcomes and consistent aesthetic integrity across all project phases.
• Act as a pivotal liaison between clients, international consultants, and Project Management Consultants (PMC), ensuring clear communication, alignment on objectives, and effective resolution of design and technical challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within a Project Management Consultancy (PMC) framework, requiring extensive experience in luxury hospitality design and a strong understanding of client-focused project delivery. The emphasis on "luxury" and "hospitality" indicates a need for a design manager who can not only manage the aesthetic but also the operational and experiential aspects of high-end establishments.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the architectural and interior design lifecycle for luxury hospitality projects, from conceptualization to detailed documentation, ensuring alignment with client vision, brand standards, and operational requirements.
• Develop and champion innovative design concepts that encapsulate global luxury trends, enhance guest experiences, and reflect unique brand aesthetics.
• Lead and mentor design teams, fostering a culture of excellence, quality, and consistency in all design deliverables.
• Coordinate effectively with international consultants (architecture, interiors, MEP, landscaping) and contractors to ensure holistic project integration and seamless execution.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and PMC project management, facilitating clear communication, managing expectations, and ensuring objectives are met.
• Conduct design coordination meetings to proactively identify and resolve technical, design, and operational challenges, maintaining project momentum and quality.
• Manage the meticulous selection and specification of premium materials, finishes, FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment), and bespoke design elements to create exclusive and luxurious environments.
• Ensure all design elements are aligned with the functional, comfort, and efficiency requirements of luxury hospitality operations without compromising on superior aesthetics.
• Oversee the creation of precise and detailed design documentation and construction drawings, adhering to the highest standards of luxury hospitality.
• Implement stringent quality control measures to ensure design deliverables meet international luxury standards and specific client brand requirements.
• Conduct regular reviews of design work, providing constructive feedback and ensuring adherence to project milestones, timelines, and budget constraints.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable local and international building codes, sustainability mandates, and PMC quality protocols.
• Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships, translating their vision into tangible design solutions and ensuring ultimate satisfaction.
• Prepare and deliver compelling design proposals, concepts, and progress updates to clients and stakeholders, adeptly incorporating feedback while preserving design integrity.
• Collaborate closely with the PMC project management team to ensure design solutions are financially viable and adhere to project budgets and schedules.
• Review cost estimates for design elements, balancing luxury requirements with financial feasibility.
• Integrate sustainable design practices and innovative technologies to enhance environmental performance and guest experience in luxury settings.
• Stay informed about emerging global hospitality design trends, cutting-edge technologies, and innovative solutions to maintain a competitive edge in the luxury market.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on both creative design leadership and rigorous project management within a PMC context. The emphasis on "luxury standards," "guest experience," and "operational alignment" within hospitality projects suggests a need for a candidate who understands the nuances of high-end client service and project delivery in demanding international markets.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 18 years of progressive experience in architectural and interior design management, with a significant and demonstrable track record in luxury hospitality projects.
• Extensive experience working with international firms and managing global projects, with a particular emphasis on the luxury sector.
• Proven experience operating within a Project Management Consultancy (PMC) environment, exhibiting a comprehensive understanding of PMC methodologies, client-focused delivery, and stakeholder management.

Required Skills:

• Architectural & Interior Design Expertise: Deep knowledge of design principles, aesthetics, and technical execution for high-end hospitality spaces.
• Luxury Hospitality Standards: In-depth understanding of international luxury hospitality design benchmarks, including material quality, custom finishes, bespoke furnishings, and brand identity requirements.
• Design Software Proficiency: Expert command of industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, along with proficiency in 3D visualization tools for compelling presentations.
• Project Management (PMC): Proven ability to manage design processes within a PMC framework, understanding procurement, tendering, and consultant coordination from a client's representative perspective.
• Leadership & Team Management: Exceptional ability to lead, mentor, and inspire multidisciplinary design teams to achieve high-performance outcomes and foster a collaborative work environment.
• Client Relationship Management: Demonstrated skill in building and maintaining strong client relationships, adeptly managing expectations, and ensuring client satisfaction through effective communication and strategic design solutions.
• Communication & Presentation: Superior verbal and written communication skills, with exceptional ability to articulate complex design concepts, strategies, and proposals to diverse stakeholders, including clients, consultants, and senior management.
• Detail Orientation: An innate and meticulous eye for detail, crucial for ensuring the precision and quality expected in luxury environments.
• Budget & Schedule Management: Ability to manage design elements within strict budgetary and timeline constraints, ensuring financial viability without compromising luxury standards.
• Building Codes & Sustainability: Solid knowledge of international building codes, regulations, and best practices in sustainable design relevant to hospitality projects.
• Quality Control: Proficiency in implementing and overseeing rigorous quality control processes for design deliverables.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional certification in Architecture or Interior Design (e.g., RIBA, AIA, NCIDQ).
• Direct experience working with globally recognized hospitality brands or luxury hotel chains.
• Familiarity with advanced 3D rendering software and virtual reality (VR) applications in design.
• Experience in value engineering and cost-optimization strategies for luxury projects.
• Understanding of operational workflows within luxury hotels to inform design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement (+18 years) and the specific mention of PMC experience are critical indicators of the seniority and specialized nature of this role. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their track record in delivering high-value, complex luxury hospitality projects within a client-representative capacity.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a strong track record in luxury hospitality design management, featuring iconic projects with a clear emphasis on aesthetic quality, innovative design solutions, and client satisfaction.
• Detailed case studies demonstrating successful collaboration with international consultants and effective resolution of complex design challenges within a PMC framework.
• Evidence of managing the selection and specification of high-end materials, finishes, FF&E, and bespoke elements, highlighting the luxury aspect and operational integration.
• Documentation of design processes, including workflow optimization, quality control procedures, and adherence to international building codes and sustainability standards.
• Examples of client presentations, demonstrating the ability to articulate design vision and secure stakeholder buy-in for luxury projects.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of design process documentation, including workflow diagrams, project timelines, and risk mitigation strategies specific to luxury hospitality projects.
• Evidence of implementing and refining design quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) protocols within a project lifecycle.
• Documentation of how design decisions were informed by operational requirements, guest experience considerations, and brand standards.
• Case studies illustrating successful integration of sustainable design practices and innovative technologies in luxury environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior design management role, particularly in PMC, the portfolio should not just be a collection of visuals but a strategic demonstration of process, problem-solving, and client management capabilities. Emphasis should be placed on showcasing the candidate's ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects with a focus on delivering luxury outcomes within defined constraints.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the senior level (18+ years of experience), the extensive PMC and luxury hospitality focus, and the locations (Dubai, UAE and Abha, KSA), a competitive annual salary range for a Design Manager – Architect is estimated between $120,000 - $180,000 USD (or equivalent in AED/SAR). This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior design leadership roles in major GCC cities, considering the cost of living, demand for specialized luxury hospitality expertise, and the typical compensation structures within PMC firms for such senior positions.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Including medical, dental, and vision coverage for the employee and potentially dependents.
• Relocation Assistance: Support for relocation to the UAE or KSA, including flights, temporary accommodation, and shipping allowances.
• Housing Allowance: A generous allowance to cover accommodation costs in Dubai or Abha.
• Annual Flight Tickets: Return airfare for the employee (and potentially family) to their home country.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, training, and certifications relevant to design, project management, and the hospitality industry.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave, public holidays, and sick leave.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Standard corporate coverage.
• Performance Bonuses: Potential for discretionary bonuses based on individual and company performance.
• End-of-Service Gratuity: As per UAE and KSA labor laws.
• Access to company amenities and resources.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, from Sunday to Thursday, with potential for extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases, common in the demanding environment of luxury hospitality project delivery. Flexibility and commitment are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on general market data for senior roles in the specified regions and industry. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. Benefits are standard for expatriate roles in the GCC region and are crucial for attracting senior talent.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering and Construction, Consulting Services, Infrastructure Development. Parsons Corporation operates globally, providing a wide range of technical and management services across various sectors including transportation, defense, critical infrastructure, and, notably for this role, hospitality and entertainment. Company Size: Parsons Corporation is a large, publicly traded company, typically employing over 15,000 individuals worldwide. This signifies a robust organizational structure, established processes, and access to significant resources. Founded: Parsons was founded in 1944. This long history indicates stability, extensive experience, and a deeply ingrained corporate culture and expertise.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Project Management Consultancy (PMC) team assigned to specific client projects, such as the Soudah Development.
• This team will include project directors, project managers, construction managers, discipline engineers (MEP, structural), and other specialized consultants.
• The Design Manager will lead a dedicated architectural and interior design sub-team, which may include junior designers, architects, and interior designers, potentially working remotely or on-site depending on project needs.
• Collaboration will extend across all project disciplines and directly with the client's representatives and brand stakeholders.

Methodology:

• Parsons operates with a strong emphasis on technical excellence, innovation, and client-centric delivery.
• For hospitality projects, their methodology will likely involve rigorous adherence to international standards, meticulous planning, and proactive risk management.
• A data-driven approach to design and project execution, coupled with a focus on efficiency and quality, is expected.
• The company culture promotes agility, growth, and empowering employees to "imagine next," suggesting an environment that values forward-thinking and continuous improvement.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' global reach and experience in large-scale developments, including hospitality, provide a strong foundation for this role. The "imagine next" slogan and emphasis on valuing people, agility, and growth suggest a dynamic and forward-looking corporate environment, which is attractive to senior professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position, denoting a Principal or Director-level contribution within the design management sphere, specifically for luxury hospitality projects. The +18 years of experience and the responsibility for leading design strategy and teams place it at the apex of design execution within a project lifecycle.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Manager – Architect will report to a Project Director or Senior Project Manager within the PMC team.
• They will have direct reports consisting of architectural and interior design staff.
• Close collaboration and regular reporting will be required with the client's project stakeholders and brand representatives.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager holds significant influence over the project's success by shaping the core aesthetic, functionality, and guest experience of luxury hospitality venues.
• Their decisions directly impact client satisfaction, brand reputation, operational efficiency, and ultimately, the commercial success of the development.
• Effective design management contributes to project profitability by controlling costs, mitigating risks, and ensuring timely delivery, all while upholding premium quality standards.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to advance into Project Director roles or manage larger, more complex hospitality portfolios for Parsons.
• Specialization Deepening: Opportunity to become a recognized authority in luxury hospitality design within the GCC or globally for Parsons.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain broader project management experience by working on diverse projects within Parsons' extensive portfolio.
• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership skills further by mentoring junior design professionals and contributing to Parsons' internal training programs.
• Strategic Input: Contribute to Parsons' business development efforts by lending expertise in luxury hospitality design to win new projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant career milestone, offering leadership responsibility and the chance to shape landmark projects. The growth opportunities lean towards expanding leadership scope and strategic influence within a major global firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site, implying a primary base within a project office or a Parsons regional office in Dubai or Abha. This environment is typically collaborative, fast-paced, and focused on project delivery. Office Location(s):

• Dubai, United Arab Emirates: A global hub for business and luxury hospitality, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle and extensive professional networks.
• Abha, Saudi Arabia: Located in the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia, known for its natural beauty and developing tourism sector, particularly with projects like the Soudah Development aiming to enhance its luxury offerings.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a dynamic project office environment, fostering close collaboration with PMC team members, consultants, and client representatives.
• Access to state-of-the-art design software and technology will be standard.
• Opportunities for site visits to project development areas will be frequent, requiring an ability to navigate diverse construction environments.
• The environment will be highly professional, demanding attention to detail, strong communication, and a results-oriented approach.

Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour work week (Sunday-Thursday) provides a structured base. However, the nature of luxury hospitality project management often requires flexibility and dedication beyond standard hours, especially during crucial design phases, client presentations, or site inspections. This is a common expectation in the GCC region for such senior roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the need for direct collaboration, site engagement, and a hands-on approach to design management. The dual location options offer distinct lifestyle and professional environments within the GCC.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio by HR and the hiring manager to assess experience, qualifications, and alignment with luxury hospitality and PMC requirements.
• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on your design philosophy, technical expertise, experience with luxury hospitality projects, and proficiency in design software. Expect detailed questions about past projects and your role in them.
• Leadership & Management Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team management capabilities, conflict resolution skills, and experience mentoring design teams.
• Client & Stakeholder Management Interview: Evaluation of your ability to manage client expectations, communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and navigate complex project dynamics.
• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to present a selection of your most relevant portfolio projects, detailing your approach to design, problem-solving, and project delivery. This is a critical opportunity to showcase your strategic thinking and communication skills.
• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic alignment, and overall suitability for the role and Parsons Corporation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Luxury Hospitality: Select projects that strongly demonstrate your expertise in luxury hospitality design. Highlight iconic hotels, resorts, high-end F&B venues, or exclusive residential projects.
• Showcase PMC Experience: If possible, include projects where you acted in a PMC or client-representative capacity, detailing your role in managing consultants, client liaison, and ensuring project delivery.
• Detail Your Role: For each project, clearly define your specific responsibilities, contributions, and leadership. Use metrics where possible (e.g., project value, team size managed, impact on guest experience).
• Highlight Design Process: Explain your design methodology, from concept development and material selection to detailing and documentation. Emphasize how you ensure luxury standards are met and maintained.
• Address Challenges: Be prepared to discuss challenges faced on projects and how you overcame them, demonstrating problem-solving skills and resilience.
• Visual Excellence: Ensure your portfolio is visually polished, high-resolution, and professionally presented. It should reflect the high standards expected in luxury design.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Concept Presentation: Practice articulating a design concept for a hypothetical luxury hospitality project, focusing on innovation, brand alignment, and guest experience.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare for questions about how you would handle common design conflicts, budget overruns, or stakeholder disagreements in a luxury hospitality PMC context.
• Leadership Scenarios: Think about how you would motivate a design team, manage performance, and foster collaboration under pressure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly vet candidates for a senior role requiring a blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and client-facing skills. The portfolio review is paramount, serving as the primary evidence of a candidate's capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD (essential for detailed drawings), Revit (BIM modeling for integrated design and coordination), SketchUp (for conceptualization and quick modeling).
• 3D Visualization & Rendering: Proficiency in tools like 3ds Max, V-Ray, Lumion, or similar for creating photorealistic renderings crucial for client presentations in luxury projects.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with platforms like MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for schedule management and tracking project progress, often used within PMC environments.
• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with EDMS (Electronic Document Management Systems) or similar for organizing and tracking project documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not primary for a Design Manager, understanding how design impacts operational metrics (e.g., guest satisfaction scores, operational efficiency) may be beneficial.
• Ability to interpret project progress reports and financial statements related to design budgets.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the Design Manager's core function, but understanding how client relationship management is handled within the PMC or Parsons' broader systems could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific design software indicates a need for hands-on proficiency, not just managerial oversight. The ability to use these tools for visualization and detailed documentation is critical for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering design solutions that meet the highest international standards of luxury and craftsmanship.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking and the adoption of new technologies and design approaches to push boundaries in luxury hospitality.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and cross-disciplinary cooperation is paramount for project success.
• Client Focus: A deep understanding of client needs and expectations, with a dedication to exceeding them through meticulous design and service.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards and maintaining professionalism in all interactions and project deliverables.
• Agility & Adaptability: The ability to respond effectively to changing project requirements, market trends, and client feedback.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands seamless collaboration with architects, interior designers, MEP engineers, landscape architects, project managers, and client representatives.
• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and frequent communication channels with all stakeholders to ensure alignment, resolve issues, and foster transparency.
• Feedback-Driven Improvement: A culture that encourages constructive feedback, both giving and receiving, to continuously enhance design quality and project outcomes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative ideas within the design team and across the broader PMC project team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' stated values of "valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth" likely permeate the team culture. For this role, expect a professional environment that balances creative freedom with rigorous project discipline and client service.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Luxury with Budget/Timeline: Consistently delivering ultra-luxury design outcomes while adhering to strict financial and time constraints inherent in large-scale developments.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Navigating the often-conflicting demands and visions of international clients, luxury brands, and internal PMC teams.
• Maintaining Design Integrity Across Global Teams: Ensuring a cohesive and high-quality design vision is executed consistently by international consultants and design teams who may have varied interpretations or capabilities.
• Adapting to Local Regulations & Culture: Integrating international luxury design standards with local building codes, cultural nuances, and specific project site conditions in regions like Saudi Arabia or the UAE.
• Staying Ahead of Design Trends: Continuously innovating and incorporating cutting-edge design and technology in a rapidly evolving luxury hospitality market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & Technology Training: Access to courses and workshops on new design software, BIM advancements, VR/AR applications, and sustainable design methodologies.
• Project Management Certifications: Opportunities to pursue PMP or other project management certifications, enhancing overall project leadership skills.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading hospitality and design industry events to stay abreast of global trends and network with peers.
• Leadership Development Programs: Parsons offers internal programs designed to enhance leadership, strategic thinking, and people management skills for senior staff.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior Parsons leadership or to mentor junior design professionals, fostering personal and professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the complexities of high-stakes luxury hospitality projects within a PMC framework. The growth opportunities are substantial, reflecting Parsons' commitment to employee development and career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Philosophy & Approach: Be prepared to articulate your personal design philosophy, especially as it applies to luxury hospitality. How do you balance aesthetics, functionality, and brand identity?
• Luxury Hospitality Expertise: Discuss your experience with specific luxury hotel brands, their standards, and how you've translated brand identity into design. Provide examples of material selection for ultra-luxury projects.
• PMC Experience: Explain your understanding of the PMC role in design management. How do you represent the client's interests while managing consultants and ensuring quality?
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle a situation where a client requests a design change that impacts budget or schedule, or how you would resolve a conflict between architectural and MEP design requirements.
• Leadership & Team Management: Describe your leadership style, how you motivate teams, and how you ensure accountability and high performance from your design staff.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Parsons' Values: Research Parsons' mission, vision, and stated values ("valuing people, embracing agility, fostering growth"). Be ready to discuss how your own values align.
• Project Relevance: Understand Parsons' involvement in hospitality projects, particularly in the GCC region, and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their portfolio and the Soudah Development.
• Cultural Fit: Reflect on your experience working in international, multicultural environments and how you adapt to different work cultures.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Selectivity is Key: Choose 3-4 of your most relevant and impactful luxury hospitality projects. Focus on quality over quantity.
• Tell a Story: For each project, present a narrative: the client's vision, the challenges, your design approach, key decisions, how you managed consultants/stakeholders, and the final outcome/impact.
• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities and contributions. Use "I" statements when describing your actions and decisions.
• Showcase Process & Detail: Include visuals that demonstrate your attention to detail, material choices, and design solutions. Explain the rationale behind your choices.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, use data to illustrate success (e.g., positive guest feedback, operational improvements achieved through design, adherence to budget/schedule).
• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice your presentation to ensure it is clear, engaging, and within the allocated timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should emphasize demonstrating not just design talent but also strong project management, client-facing, and leadership capabilities, crucial for a senior role in a PMC context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager – Architect position:

• Visit the Parsons Corporation careers portal via the provided URL and submit your application.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume prominently highlights your +18 years of experience, specifically in luxury hospitality design management. Emphasize your experience with international projects, PMC environments, and key skills like leadership, client management, and design software proficiency.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a digital portfolio that meticulously showcases your most relevant luxury hospitality projects. Focus on visual quality, detailed case studies, and clear articulation of your role and impact. Ensure it aligns with the requirements outlined in the "Portfolio Requirements" section.
• Prepare for Case Studies: Anticipate being asked to present specific projects or discuss hypothetical design challenges. Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving abilities, and leadership approach.
• Research Parsons Corporation: Familiarize yourself with Parsons' global projects, particularly in the hospitality sector and the GCC region. Understand their company culture, values, and approach to project delivery.

⚠️ 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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