Design manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: JLL Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Job Type: Full-time Category: Real Estate Design Management Date Posted: 2026-02-12 Experience Level: 7-10 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multiple complex design projects within the real estate sector, ensuring alignment with strategic business objectives and client requirements.
• Drive efficient project execution through meticulous oversight of project scope, scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation, leveraging project management best practices.
• Foster a collaborative environment by coordinating internal design teams and external consultants, ensuring seamless information flow and timely delivery of high-quality design documentation.
• Champion technical excellence by providing critical design direction, resolving complex challenges, and ensuring adherence to all relevant building codes, standards, and sustainability principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within the real estate sector, specifically focusing on design management. The responsibilities emphasize project oversight, team coordination, and technical expertise. The target candidate will likely have a background in architecture or engineering, with a strong understanding of construction methods and BIM processes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Orchestrate the end-to-end management of multiple design projects, defining project scope, establishing rigorous schedules, and managing budgets proactively to ensure successful project completion within defined parameters.
• Facilitate seamless collaboration between internal design teams and external consultants (architects, engineers, contractors) by establishing clear communication channels and ensuring timely exchange of critical project information throughout all project lifecycles.
• Maintain the integrity of design documentation by meticulously reviewing all deliverables for quality, compliance with standards, and adherence to client specifications, implementing corrective actions as needed to prevent project deviations.
• Provide expert technical guidance and strategic design direction across all project phases, from initial schematic design concepts through to detailed construction documentation, ensuring constructability and cost-effectiveness.
• Approve design concepts, drawings, specifications, and other technical documentation, verifying strict adherence to all applicable building codes, industry standards, client mandates, and regulatory requirements.
• Address and resolve intricate design challenges, making decisive design decisions that align with project objectives, client needs, and JLL's quality standards, ensuring solutions are both innovative and practical.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of design professionals, cultivating their technical competency, fostering professional growth, and promoting a culture of high performance and collaborative innovation.
• Effectively assign project responsibilities to team members, provide constructive performance feedback, and actively promote an environment conducive to teamwork and mutual support.
• Engage in clear and consistent communication with architects, engineers, contractors, and other key stakeholders to ensure effective coordination, efficient conflict resolution, and overall project alignment.
• Act as the primary liaison for clients and stakeholders, adeptly presenting design concepts, articulating strategic decisions, and proactively addressing concerns to maintain strong relationships and ensure client satisfaction.
• Establish and maintain robust quality control processes, ensuring all design outputs consistently meet JLL's organizational standards, recognized industry best practices, and all relevant regulatory requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior-level role requiring significant project management, team leadership, and technical design expertise within the real estate development context. Emphasis is placed on managing multiple projects concurrently, ensuring quality control, and stakeholder communication.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a closely related technical field is a mandatory requirement.
• A Master's degree in a relevant discipline is strongly preferred and will be considered a significant advantage.

Experience:

• A minimum of 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible experience in design management, project leadership, or a related architectural/engineering role is required.
• Demonstrated experience in managing the full lifecycle of design projects from conception through to construction documentation.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in industry-standard design and drafting software, including AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and the Adobe Creative Suite, or equivalent tools essential for detailed design work.
• Comprehensive understanding of building codes, zoning regulations, accessibility standards (e.g., ADA), and sustainable design principles (e.g., LEED, BREEAM).
• In-depth knowledge and practical experience with BIM (Building Information Modeling) processes and associated project management software for integrated design workflows.
• Proven leadership capabilities with a track record of successfully managing complex, multi-disciplinary design projects and leading project teams.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a capacity to make sound, data-informed decisions under pressure and manage ambiguity.
• Demonstrable financial acumen, including experience with budget management, cost control, and strategic resource allocation for design initiatives.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management software such as MS Project, Asana, or similar platforms for detailed project tracking and reporting.
• Familiarity with real estate development processes and the specific design considerations within the Saudi Arabian market.
• Knowledge of contract administration and negotiation related to design services.
• Experience in client relationship management and stakeholder engagement within the property sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical design skills, project management experience, and leadership capabilities. Proficiency with specific software like Revit and BIM is crucial, as is a solid understanding of regulatory frameworks and construction methodologies. The preference for a Master's degree and experience in the Saudi market suggests a need for specialized knowledge and potentially local context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing a range of successfully managed design projects, highlighting the scale, complexity, and diversity of projects undertaken.
• Provide evidence of project management methodologies employed, including scope definition, scheduling techniques, and budget control strategies, with clear examples of successful implementation.
• Include case studies illustrating the effective use of BIM and other advanced design technologies to enhance project delivery, collaboration, and efficiency.
• Showcase examples of how design solutions were developed to meet specific client requirements, cost constraints, and regulatory compliance, ideally with quantifiable outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Present documentation outlining established processes for design project initiation, planning, and execution, emphasizing workflow design and optimization.
• Provide examples of how design processes were documented, implemented, and potentially automated to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and ensure consistency.
• Detail methodologies used for measuring design project performance, including key performance indicators (KPIs) for quality, budget, schedule adherence, and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present a portfolio that not only showcases their design work but also demonstrates their project management capabilities, process-driven approach, and proficiency with modern design technologies like BIM. This section emphasizes the need to articulate how processes were managed and optimized, not just the final design outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager role with 7-10 years of experience in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a competitive annual salary is estimated to range between SAR 250,000 to SAR 400,000. This estimate considers the required qualifications, experience level, and the cost of living in Riyadh.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
• Paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays as per Saudi labor law and company policy.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training programs, workshops, and potential sponsorship for further certifications.
• Contribution to a retirement savings plan or end-of-service benefits as mandated by local regulations.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and incentives, reflecting individual and company achievements.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours for this full-time, on-site position are typically 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with potential for occasional weekend work or extended hours during critical project phases, in line with industry norms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for Design Managers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, considering the specified experience level and responsibilities. Benefits are standard for full-time roles in the region, with an emphasis on professional development opportunities relevant to a technical management position.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• JLL operates within the dynamic global real estate and investment management services industry. This sector is characterized by its cyclical nature, reliance on strong client relationships, and increasing integration of technology and sustainable practices. For a Design Manager, this means navigating market trends, understanding client investment strategies, and contributing to the development of innovative, sustainable, and technologically advanced properties.

Company Size:

• JLL is a large, global organization with a significant employee base (typically over 100,000 employees worldwide). This large scale implies a structured corporate environment with established processes, extensive resources, and opportunities for cross-regional collaboration. For operations professionals, this means potential for career mobility within a vast network and access to diverse projects and expertise.

Founded:

• Jones Lang LaSalle was founded in 1783, signifying a long and rich history in the real estate services sector. This deep heritage suggests a stable, established company with a strong understanding of market dynamics and a commitment to long-term client relationships and industry best practices.

Team Structure:

• The Design team at JLL likely operates as a specialized unit within larger project management or property development divisions.
• Team members may report to a Senior Design Director or Head of Design, with the Design Manager overseeing a portfolio of projects and potentially managing junior designers or project coordinators.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close partnerships with project managers, leasing teams, facilities management, legal, finance, and external consultants (architects, engineers, contractors).

Methodology:

• JLL emphasizes a data-driven approach to real estate services, leveraging analytics for market insights, investment strategies, and performance optimization.
• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, particularly in project management and design, ensuring efficient delivery and resource utilization.
• The company is committed to innovation and efficiency, encouraging the adoption of new technologies and best practices, including BIM and AI, to enhance service delivery and client value.

Company Website:

• https://www.jll.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: JLL's long history and global presence suggest a stable, professional environment with a strong emphasis on process, data, and client relationships. The Design Manager role will be embedded within this structure, requiring collaboration across various functions and an understanding of the broader real estate market.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This Design Manager role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the design and project management functions. It requires a blend of technical expertise, project leadership, and people management skills. The scope involves significant responsibility for project outcomes, client satisfaction, and team development, positioning it as a key contributor to JLL's project delivery capabilities.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Manager will typically report to a Director of Design, Head of Project Management, or a senior executive overseeing real estate development within a specific region or business line.
• They will directly manage a team of designers, architects, or technical specialists, and collaborate closely with project managers, client representatives, and external stakeholders.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager's impact is directly tied to the successful execution of real estate projects. Effective design management leads to projects delivered on time, within budget, and to high-quality standards, directly influencing client satisfaction, JLL's reputation, and profitability. Their work shapes the physical assets that JLL manages and develops, impacting user experience, operational efficiency, and long-term asset value.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Leadership: Progression to roles like Senior Design Manager, Director of Design, or Head of Design, overseeing larger portfolios or regional design operations.
• Project Management Specialization: Transition into senior project management roles, leveraging design expertise for broader project oversight and strategic planning.
• Business Development & Client Relations: Develop expertise in client management and business development within the real estate sector, using design leadership as a foundation.
• Specialized Expertise: Deepen knowledge in specific areas such as sustainable design, BIM management, or specific asset classes (e.g., commercial, residential, industrial).

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within JLL's extensive real estate services framework. The growth opportunities are geared towards increasing leadership scope, strategic influence, or specialized technical expertise, aligning with typical career trajectories in design and project management within large corporations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• This is an on-site role, indicating a primary work environment within JLL's corporate offices in Riyadh. These offices are likely designed to be modern, professional, and collaborative spaces, equipped with the necessary technology and resources to support design and project management activities.

Office Location(s):

• The role is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with the designation "SAU-CLIENT Riyadh-Mult.sites" suggesting potential for site visits to various client locations or project sites within the Riyadh region. This requires the ability to travel to different project locations as needed to oversee design implementation and coordination.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will facilitate collaboration with a geographically diverse team, utilizing digital tools for communication and project management.
• Access to advanced design software, hardware, and potentially virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) tools for design visualization and review will be available.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with project teams, clients, and senior management will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and engaging work environment.

Work Schedule:

• The role adheres to a standard full-time work schedule, typically Monday to Friday. However, the dynamic nature of design and project management in real estate often necessitates flexibility, with potential demands for extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases, such as design reviews, client presentations, or to meet tight deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Riyadh, coupled with potential site visits, highlights a hands-on role. The work environment is expected to be professional and technologically advanced, supporting the collaborative and deadline-driven nature of real estate design projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's core requirements.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager to explore your experience, project management approach, leadership style, and technical expertise, including specific examples from your background.
• Technical/Team Interview: You may meet with other senior design professionals or project managers to delve deeper into your technical skills, design problem-solving abilities, and understanding of industry best practices. This stage often involves discussing specific design challenges.
• Portfolio Presentation: A crucial step where you will be asked to present a curated selection of your design work and project management case studies. This is an opportunity to showcase your skills, process, and impact.
• Final Interview: Potentially a meeting with a senior leader or head of department to discuss strategic alignment, cultural fit, and overall suitability for the role and JLL.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful and relevant projects. Focus on projects that demonstrate your ability to manage scope, budget, schedule, and complex design challenges.
• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the objectives, your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented (including design decisions and process), the tools used (e.g., BIM, AutoCAD), and the quantifiable outcomes or impact.
• Highlight Process & Methodology: Emphasize your approach to project management, design coordination, quality control, and stakeholder communication. Detail how you ensured compliance and managed risks.
• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate success. This could include budget savings, schedule adherence, efficiency improvements, or client satisfaction ratings.
• Tailor to JLL: Research JLL's current projects, values, and strategic priorities. Frame your portfolio presentation to show how your experience aligns with their business objectives and market focus in Saudi Arabia.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions related to managing conflicting stakeholder demands, resolving design disputes, handling budget overruns, or adapting to unexpected site conditions.
• Consider a hypothetical design challenge related to a property development in Riyadh, requiring you to outline your approach to schematic design, team coordination, and regulatory compliance.
• Practice articulating your design philosophy, leadership style, and approach to fostering a high-performing team in a concise and compelling manner.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily emphasizes practical experience and the ability to articulate one's contributions through a strong portfolio. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their project management methodologies, technical proficiency, and leadership approach, with a clear focus on demonstrating tangible results and alignment with JLL's operational context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for 2D drafting and design documentation. Proficiency in creating and managing technical drawings.
• Revit: Critical for BIM (Building Information Modeling) workflows, enabling 3D design, clash detection, and integrated project delivery. Expertise in creating and managing models.
• SketchUp: Useful for conceptual design, visualization, and quick modeling of design ideas.
• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator): Necessary for creating presentations, rendering designs, and producing high-quality visual collateral.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with tools like MS Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or similar for detailed scheduling, resource allocation, task tracking, and performance reporting.
• BIM Management Platforms: Experience with platforms that facilitate BIM collaboration, data management, and model aggregation (e.g., Autodesk BIM 360, Navisworks).
• Financial Management Tools: Familiarity with ERP systems or financial software for budget tracking and reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• JLL's Internal Systems: While specific internal CRM or automation tools might not be listed, a willingness to learn and adapt to JLL's proprietary systems for client management, project tracking, and internal communication is expected.
• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication, file sharing, and virtual collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on industry-standard design and project management software. A strong emphasis on BIM and associated collaborative platforms is evident, reflecting JLL's commitment to modern, integrated design processes. Adaptability to JLL's specific internal systems will also be key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with clients, consultants, and team members, ensuring transparency and trust in every project.
• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where collective effort and shared knowledge lead to superior design solutions and project outcomes. Encouraging open communication and mutual support.
• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design work that meets and exceeds client expectations, adhering to rigorous standards and driving continuous improvement.
• Innovation: Embracing new technologies, methodologies, and creative approaches to design and project management, seeking efficient and forward-thinking solutions for real estate challenges.
• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and objectives, building strong relationships through responsive service, clear communication, and delivering value that supports their business goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with various JLL departments (e.g., Project Management, Asset Management, Leasing) and external partners to ensure a holistic approach to project development and delivery.
• Process Review Culture: Encouraging regular feedback loops and design reviews to identify areas for process improvement and knowledge sharing among team members.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise are openly shared to enhance team capabilities and project success across the board.

📝 Enhancement Note: JLL's values emphasize professionalism, collaboration, and a client-centric approach, underpinned by a commitment to quality and innovation. The collaboration style within the design team is expected to be highly integrated, both internally and externally, with a focus on continuous learning and process refinement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Project Demands: Balancing the competing priorities, timelines, and stakeholder expectations across several concurrent design projects. Mitigation involves robust prioritization, delegation, and clear communication strategies.
• Navigating Complex Regulatory Environments: Ensuring strict adherence to evolving building codes, local regulations, and sustainability standards in Saudi Arabia, which can be intricate and subject to change. Staying updated through continuous learning and expert consultation is key.
• Integrating Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Harmonizing the often-conflicting requirements and expectations of clients, end-users, JLL management, and regulatory bodies. Requires strong negotiation, communication, and compromise skills.
• Adopting New Technologies: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in design software, BIM, and project management tools, and effectively implementing them within project workflows to enhance efficiency and quality. Continuous training and experimentation are vital.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & BIM Training: Access to specialized courses and certifications in advanced BIM workflows, parametric design, or specific design software modules.
• Project Management Certifications: Opportunities to pursue or maintain professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading real estate, architecture, and design conferences to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.
• Leadership Development Programs: JLL offers various programs designed to enhance leadership, strategic thinking, and management capabilities for its employees.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior design management role in a global organization operating in a dynamic market. The growth opportunities are well-defined, focusing on deepening technical expertise, enhancing project management capabilities, and developing leadership potential within the real estate sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed multiple complex design projects simultaneously. How did you prioritize, delegate, and ensure all projects met their objectives?" (Focus on your project management methodology, prioritization techniques, and delegation strategies.)
• "Walk us through a challenging design problem you encountered and how you resolved it. What was your decision-making process, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your problem-solving skills, technical acumen, and ability to deliver practical solutions.)
• "How do you ensure collaboration and effective communication between internal design teams and external consultants like architects and engineers?" (Discuss your approach to stakeholder management, communication protocols, and conflict resolution.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about JLL's work in the real estate sector, particularly in Saudi Arabia, and how do you see your role contributing to our strategic goals?" (Research JLL's recent projects, market position, and values. Align your experience with their stated objectives.)
• "Describe your leadership style and how you motivate and develop design teams. How do you foster a culture of quality and innovation?" (Provide specific examples of your leadership approach, mentoring initiatives, and efforts to promote best practices.)
• "How do you stay updated on building codes, sustainability standards, and emerging design technologies?" (Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development through specific examples of resources and methods.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a brief overview of your career and expertise. For each project, clearly state the project's context, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges, your strategic approach (including process and tools), and the quantifiable results.
• Showcase Process & Problem-Solving: Don't just show pretty pictures. Explain how you managed the project, how you solved problems, and how you ensured quality and compliance. Use diagrams or workflow charts if helpful.
• Highlight BIM & Technology: Explicitly detail your use of Revit, BIM, and other technologies to drive efficiency, collaboration, and better design outcomes.
• Quantify Value: Use data to illustrate your impact. For example, "Reduced design review time by 15% through implementing BIM clash detection," or "Delivered project 5% under budget while maintaining quality standards."
• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared to answer questions about your projects in detail. Practice your presentation to ensure it flows logically and stays within the allotted time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical experience, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of design management principles within the real estate context. The portfolio presentation is a critical component, requiring candidates to articulate their contributions and impact with clarity and data.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the JLL careers portal.
• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in this job description, such as "Design Management," "Project Scope," "Budget Management," "BIM," "Revit," "Stakeholder Communication," and "Team Leadership." Quantify your achievements with specific metrics where possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your strongest design and project management case studies. Ensure they clearly demonstrate your ability to manage projects from start to finish, your technical proficiency (especially with BIM and Revit), and your leadership skills. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail.
• Research JLL: Familiarize yourself with JLL's global presence, their work in the Middle East/Saudi Arabia market, their core values, and recent projects. Understand their approach to real estate services and innovation.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that showcase your experience in project management, team leadership, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement, as outlined in the interview preparation section.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially regarding salary and specific benefits, should be verified directly with the hiring organization during the interview process.