Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager
Company: Mace
Location: Riyadh, Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia
Job Type: Full-time, Regular
Category: Design Management / Project Operations
Date Posted: 2025-09-29
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and manage design processes for major sports stadiums and associated projects in Saudi Arabia, ensuring alignment with client briefs and strategic execution.
• Drive cohesive design management across all project phases, from initial concept and client engagement through to construction and final delivery.
• Facilitate and support the scheduling of critical design reviews at defined project gateways and control points to maintain project momentum and quality.
• Manage rigorous technical and constructability reviews of all project deliverables, identifying potential issues and opportunities for optimization.
• Monitor and ensure strict compliance of all design activities and deliverables with the project brief, technical specifications, and relevant industry standards.
• Support the review of engineering proposals and contract changes, ensuring they align with project scope, budget, and timeline objectives.
• Conduct interdisciplinary reviews specifically focused on value engineering, identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising design integrity or functionality.
• Implement and uphold EXPRO standards, processes, and tools to ensure consistency and efficiency within the Stadium Development Program.
• Validate consultant claims and deliverables, ensuring they meet quality benchmarks and contractual obligations.
• Support the generation of dashboard reporting and proactively raise concerns or escalations to EPMO and Engineering leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is highly focused on the operational execution of design management within a large-scale project environment. The emphasis on "EXPRO standards, processes, and tools" suggests a need for candidates familiar with established program management methodologies, likely within a construction or engineering consultancy context. The "EPMO" (Engineering Program Management Office) reference further indicates a structured, corporate project management framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with the Lead Architect and Senior Design Manager to translate client briefs into actionable design strategies and oversee their execution.
• Ensure seamless and consistent design management practices are applied across all project lifecycle phases, from inception to completion.
• Schedule and facilitate timely design review meetings at key project milestones (gateways and control points) to gather feedback and secure necessary approvals.
• Lead and manage the technical review process for all design documents, drawings, and specifications, ensuring constructability and feasibility.
• Conduct thorough reviews to monitor and enforce compliance with the project brief, client requirements, and technical specifications.
• Evaluate engineering proposals and proposed contract changes, assessing their impact on design intent, schedule, and budget.
• Spearhead interdisciplinary value engineering sessions to identify cost efficiencies and optimize design solutions.
• Champion the adoption and adherence to Mace's EXPRO standards, processes, and tools for the Stadium Development Program.
• Review and validate consultant claims, ensuring accuracy, quality, and adherence to contractual terms.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of project dashboards, providing clear reporting on design progress, risks, and issues to project leadership.
• Proactively identify and escalate design-related concerns, risks, or deviations to the EPMO and Engineering leadership teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic oversight and detailed execution. The emphasis on "technical and constructability reviews," "value engineering," and "compliance" points to a role that requires deep understanding of the built environment and project delivery processes, rather than pure conceptual design. The direct involvement in "dashboard reporting" and escalation to "EPMO and Engineering leadership" signifies a critical operational and communication function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related design discipline.

Experience:

• A minimum of 12+ years of progressive experience in design management, project management, or program management within the construction or engineering sectors.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering large-scale, complex projects, with a strong preference for experience in GCC mega-projects.
• Experience in sports-related project development is considered a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Comprehensive understanding of the design lifecycle, from concept development to construction documentation and site execution.
• Project Management: Proficiency in managing project timelines, budgets, resources, and stakeholder expectations within a large-scale program.
• Technical & Constructability Reviews: Ability to critically assess design deliverables for technical accuracy, buildability, and compliance with standards.
• GCC Mega-Project Experience: Demonstrated experience navigating the complexities of large-scale infrastructure projects within the Gulf Cooperation Council region.
• Proficiency in CAD/BIM: Strong working knowledge of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and their application in project delivery.
• Industry Codes & Standards: Familiarity with relevant local and international building codes, construction regulations, and design standards.
• Compliance Monitoring: Ability to establish and monitor adherence to project briefs, specifications, and quality requirements.
• Value Engineering: Skill in identifying and implementing cost-saving measures and design optimizations.
• Stakeholder Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with clients, consultants, and internal teams.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address design challenges and mitigate risks.

Preferred Skills:

• Sports Facility Design: Specific experience in the design and delivery of sports stadiums or large public venues.
• LEED Principles: Understanding and application of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) principles for sustainable construction.
• Local Cultural & Environmental Design: Awareness of and ability to integrate local cultural nuances, heritage considerations, and environmental design best practices relevant to Saudi Arabia.
• Contract Administration: Experience in reviewing engineering proposals and managing contract changes.
• Dashboard Reporting Tools: Familiarity with tools for creating and presenting project performance data.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a strong architectural foundation combined with extensive project management experience, particularly in the context of large-scale GCC projects. The inclusion of CAD/BIM, industry codes, and LEED principles points to a need for technically proficient candidates. The preference for sports-related experience and local cultural understanding highlights the specific nature of this program.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Management Case Studies: Showcase examples of projects where you managed the design process from initiation to completion, detailing your role, methodologies, and outcomes.
• Process Optimization Examples: Provide evidence of how you've improved design workflows, enhanced efficiency, or implemented new processes to achieve better project results.
• Technical Review Documentation: Include samples or descriptions of how you conducted technical and constructability reviews, highlighting your ability to identify risks and propose solutions.
• Value Engineering Contributions: Present case studies demonstrating your involvement in value engineering initiatives, quantifying cost savings or performance improvements achieved.
• Compliance & Specification Management: Illustrate your approach to ensuring design compliance with project briefs and specifications, with examples of how you monitored and enforced these requirements.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing and optimizing end-to-end design management workflows, including the integration of different disciplines.
• Implementation & Automation: Showcase your ability to implement design processes, potentially leveraging digital tools or automation for efficiency gains.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how you measure design process performance, track key metrics, and use data to drive improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, particularly in a large program, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate the candidate's systematic approach to design management, their ability to influence processes, and their impact on project outcomes. The emphasis on "EXPRO standards" suggests that candidates should be prepared to discuss how their portfolio aligns with or demonstrates experience in structured program management environments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the location (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), the extensive experience required (10+ years), and the mega-project nature of the role, a competitive salary package is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Manager roles in the GCC region for large-scale construction projects, the estimated annual salary range would likely be between SAR 350,000 to SAR 600,000 (approximately USD 93,000 to USD 160,000), potentially higher for exceptional candidates with highly relevant specialized experience. This estimate accounts for cost of living, market demand for specialized skills in mega-projects, and the seniority of the position.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Coverage for the employee and potentially dependents, including medical, dental, and vision.
• Relocation Assistance: Support for international candidates moving to Saudi Arabia, potentially including flights, temporary accommodation, and shipping allowances.
• Accommodation Allowance/Provided Housing: A housing allowance or company-provided accommodation, common for expatriate roles in the region.
• Transportation Allowance: Support for commuting to and from the project site.
• Annual Leave: Generous paid annual leave, typically in line with Saudi labor laws and international company standards.
• Flights Home: Annual or bi-annual flights back to the employee's home country.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuous learning aligned with project needs and career growth.
• Performance Bonuses: Potential for performance-based bonuses tied to project milestones and overall program success.
• End-of-Service Benefits: Gratuity payment upon completion of service, as per local labor regulations.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, from Sunday to Thursday, aligning with business needs and project deadlines. Flexibility may be required to meet project demands, including occasional overtime or weekend work during critical phases, which is often compensated according to company policy and local labor laws.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary figures are estimates based on the role's seniority, location, and industry. Actual compensation will be determined by Mace based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. Benefits packages for roles of this nature in Saudi Arabia are typically robust to attract international talent.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Consultancy, Infrastructure Development. Mace operates at the intersection of construction expertise and consultancy, offering end-to-end solutions for complex projects. Company Size: Mace is a global company with a significant workforce, typically ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 employees worldwide. This scale suggests a structured corporate environment with established processes and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration on a large scale. Founded: Mace was founded in 1990. Its history of delivering major global projects indicates a culture of ambition, innovation, and a strong focus on client delivery.

Team Structure:

• Project-Specific Teams: The role will be embedded within a dedicated program or project team focused on the delivery of major sports stadiums in Saudi Arabia. This team will likely include various disciplines such as architecture, engineering (structural, MEP, civil), project management, construction management, and commercial functions.
• Reporting Hierarchy: The Design Manager will report to a Senior Design Manager and/or the Lead Architect, with oversight from program directors or the EPMO. Collaboration will be extensive with other design managers, discipline leads, and project managers.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with construction teams, procurement, commercial departments, client representatives, and numerous specialist consultants and contractors. The role requires strong interface management skills.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data from project reviews, performance reports, and technical assessments to inform decisions and drive project outcomes.
• Structured Project Management: Adherence to established project management frameworks, likely including Mace's own EXPRO standards, for planning, execution, monitoring, and control.
• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages the identification and implementation of process improvements, value engineering, and best practices to enhance project delivery.
• Risk Management: Proactive identification, assessment, and mitigation of risks throughout the design and project lifecycle.

Company Website: Mace Careers (https://macecareers.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobdetail.ftl?job=40201&lang=en)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context emphasizes Mace's global reach and its focus on large-scale, complex projects. The specific mention of "major sports stadiums and associated projects in Saudi Arabia" and the "Stadium Development Program" indicates a specialized, high-profile initiative. The "EXPRO standards" are a key operational element that candidates should be aware of.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the design management function, requiring significant experience and a proven ability to manage complex design processes for major infrastructure projects. It sits at a crucial junction between architectural design and project execution, demanding both technical acumen and strong leadership capabilities.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior leadership within the project's engineering and design department, likely a Senior Design Manager or Lead Architect. They will be integral to the program's EPMO structure, liaising with various project stakeholders and contributing to overall program governance.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a critical role in shaping the technical and functional aspects of multi-billion dollar sports stadiums. Their decisions directly influence project costs, timelines, quality, safety, and the ultimate success and legacy of these flagship developments. Effective design management ensures that the project meets its strategic objectives and delivers world-class facilities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership: Progression to Senior Design Manager, Lead Design Manager, or Program Design Director roles, overseeing larger scopes of work or multiple projects.
• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas such as sustainable design, complex structural systems, or advanced BIM implementation within large projects.
• Cross-Disciplinary Roles: Transitioning into broader project management, program management, or construction management roles within Mace's diverse portfolio.
• International Mobility: Opportunities to work on other major global projects within Mace's international network.
• Leadership Development Programs: Access to Mace's internal training and development initiatives focused on leadership, strategic thinking, and advanced project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear pathway for career advancement within a globally recognized firm, particularly for those aspiring to lead large-scale, high-profile construction and infrastructure projects. The focus on mega-projects in a growth region like Saudi Arabia provides significant opportunities for high-impact work and accelerated career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, implying a combination of office-based work and potential site visits. The primary work base will likely be an established project office within Riyadh, designed to support the operational needs of a major construction program.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The specific project office location would be detailed during the hiring process, but it will be situated to provide efficient access to project stakeholders and potentially the construction sites.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The project office will serve as a central hub for design teams, project managers, and other key personnel, fostering a collaborative environment for problem-solving and decision-making.
• Technology-Rich Environment: Expect access to modern office facilities, robust IT infrastructure, and specialized design software (CAD/BIM) essential for managing complex project deliverables.
• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for direct interaction with a diverse, multi-national team of architects, engineers, project managers, and consultants, facilitating knowledge sharing and coordinated efforts.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule will likely be the typical 40-hour week (Sunday-Thursday). However, given the nature of mega-projects, there may be requirements for flexibility, including occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical project deadlines, particularly around design review periods or key milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is critical, emphasizing the need for physical presence in Riyadh. The work environment is expected to be dynamic and fast-paced, typical of major construction programs, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and technological tools.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly experience in large-scale projects and design management.
• Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion with a hiring manager or senior team member focusing on your design management methodologies, experience with CAD/BIM, technical review processes, and understanding of construction phases. Expect questions related to GCC projects and specific challenges encountered.
• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present a selection of your most relevant work, demonstrating your project management skills, design oversight capabilities, and problem-solving approaches. This is a key opportunity to showcase your impact.
• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: An assessment of your alignment with Mace's values (Safety, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity), teamwork abilities, communication style, and suitability for working in a multicultural environment.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior program director or executive, focusing on strategic fit, leadership potential, and overall contribution to the program's success.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 high-impact projects that best demonstrate your experience in design management for large-scale, complex projects, ideally in GCC or similar environments.
• Focus on Your Role & Impact: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings from value engineering, schedule adherence through efficient reviews, quality improvements).
• Structure for Clarity: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps chronologically by project phase or thematically by responsibility (e.g., client brief management, technical reviews, compliance).
• Highlight Process & Tools: Detail the methodologies, standards (like EXPRO, if applicable), and tools (CAD/BIM) you utilized. Be prepared to discuss how you managed design reviews and compliance.
• Demonstrate Cultural Awareness: If possible, include examples that show your understanding of local cultural nuances and environmental considerations, especially if presenting GCC projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Review Simulation: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario where you might be asked to review a set of design drawings or a proposal, identifying potential issues and proposing solutions within a given timeframe.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would approach common design management challenges, such as scope creep, consultant performance issues, or conflicting stakeholder requirements.
• Value Engineering Case: Consider preparing a brief case study of a value engineering exercise you led or contributed to, focusing on the process and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess technical expertise, project management capabilities, and cultural fit. A strong, well-prepared portfolio is essential, not just as a record of past work but as a tool to demonstrate practical application of skills and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD platforms is essential.
• BIM Software: Strong experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) is critical for managing complex design data, clash detection, and collaboration.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management platforms (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project) for scheduling and progress tracking.
• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for document sharing, communication, and workflow management.
• EXPRO Standards: While not a software, familiarity with Mace's internal EXPRO standards and processes is a significant advantage.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Dashboarding Tools: Experience with tools like Power BI, Tableau, or similar for creating visual reports on design progress, risks, and compliance metrics.
• Reporting Software: Ability to generate clear and concise reports for senior management and stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with robust document control systems for managing large volumes of design documentation.
• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with any tools or methods used to automate design review, approval, or compliance checking processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the scale and complexity of the projects, proficiency in BIM and robust project/document management systems is non-negotiable. The specific mention of "EXPRO standards" suggests that candidates with experience in formal program management methodologies will be highly regarded.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First - Going Home Safe and Well: A paramount value, expecting all team members to prioritize safety in all design and operational decisions and foster a supportive, inclusive environment.
• Client Focus - Deliver on Our Promise: Commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes, meeting client expectations, and building enduring client relationships through reliable execution.
• Integrity - Always Do the Right Thing: Upholding ethical standards, legal compliance, and influencing positive outcomes within the industry. This translates to transparent dealings with consultants and stakeholders.
• Create Opportunity - For Our People to Excel: Fostering a culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and empowering individuals and teams to achieve their best.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expectation of proactive collaboration with diverse teams (architecture, engineering, construction, commercial) to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Open Communication: Emphasis on clear, direct, and respectful communication to resolve issues, share information, and align on project goals.
• Process-Oriented: A structured approach to collaboration, leveraging defined processes and tools to manage workflows and decision-making effectively.
• Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement in design processes and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's stated values provide a strong framework for understanding the expected team culture. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their professional approach aligns with these values, particularly regarding safety, client delivery, integrity, and continuous improvement in a demanding project environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the diverse and often conflicting demands of clients, regulatory bodies, design teams, and construction teams on mega-projects.
• Navigating Complex Design Coordination: Ensuring seamless integration of multiple architectural and engineering disciplines in complex structures like stadiums, requiring rigorous clash detection and resolution.
• Adherence to Tight Timelines: Delivering high-quality design documentation within aggressive project schedules common in mega-projects, requiring efficient workflow management and decision-making.
• Cultural and Regulatory Landscape: Adapting to local cultural norms, regulatory requirements, and specific environmental considerations in Saudi Arabia for design and construction.
• Implementing New Standards: Successfully integrating and enforcing Mace's EXPRO standards and processes across a diverse project team and external consultants.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Management: Opportunities to refine skills in managing large-scale, complex design programs and gain exposure to cutting-edge project delivery techniques.
• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications relevant to project management, design, or specific technical areas (e.g., PMP, LEED AP).
• Mentorship: Access to experienced senior leaders within Mace who can provide guidance on career progression, technical challenges, and leadership development.
• Exposure to Mega-Projects: Gaining invaluable experience on globally significant infrastructure projects, enhancing your professional profile and expertise.
• Cross-Cultural Competency: Developing strong skills in working effectively within a multicultural team and navigating international project environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant but also represent substantial opportunities for professional growth. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they have overcome similar challenges and how they embrace continuous learning and development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Management Approach: "Describe your systematic approach to managing the design process for a large-scale stadium project, from client brief to construction handover. How do you ensure integration across disciplines?" (Focus on process, tools, and stakeholder management.)
• Technical Review & Value Engineering: "Walk me through a challenging technical review or value engineering exercise you led. What were the key issues, how did you resolve them, and what was the outcome?" (Demonstrate analytical skills, problem-solving, and impact.)
• GCC Project Experience: "What are the unique considerations when managing design on mega-projects in the GCC region, particularly concerning local culture, regulations, and logistics?" (Showcase relevant experience and cultural awareness.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Mace Values: "How have you demonstrated Mace's values (Safety, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) in your previous roles?" (Align your experiences with their stated values.)
• Teamwork & Collaboration: "Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with diverse stakeholders (e.g., architects, engineers, contractors, clients) to achieve a design objective. What was your approach?" (Highlight communication and interpersonal skills.)
• Process Improvement: "Can you provide an example of how you implemented a process improvement in design management or project delivery? What was the impact?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous improvement and efficiency.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your portfolio presentation around a compelling narrative for each project, highlighting the challenge, your approach, the actions you took, and the results achieved.
• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the tangible outcomes of your work (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, risk mitigation).
• Focus on Key Responsibilities: Tailor your examples to directly address the responsibilities outlined in the job description, such as managing reviews, ensuring compliance, and implementing standards.
• Showcase Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss specific challenges you encountered and how you strategically overcame them, demonstrating your resilience and critical thinking.
• Engage and Interact: Be prepared for questions about your presentation and your work. Treat it as a collaborative discussion rather than a one-way presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical design management expertise, robust project management skills, and a strong cultural fit with Mace. The portfolio is a critical tool for substantiating claims made during the interview.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Mace Careers portal using the provided link.
• Resume Tailoring: Customize your resume to highlight your experience with mega-projects, specifically in the GCC region if applicable. Emphasize your 12+ years of experience in design, project, or program management, and clearly state your degree in Architecture. Use keywords from the job description, such as "Design Management," "Technical Reviews," "BIM," "Value Engineering," and "Compliance."
• Portfolio Preparation: Select 3-4 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your design management capabilities for large-scale infrastructure. Prepare a concise presentation that details your role, methodologies, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable results. Ensure it aligns with the responsibilities and requirements mentioned.
• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your alignment with Mace's values and your ability to handle the key responsibilities. Practice articulating your portfolio projects clearly and concisely.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Mace, its values, its recent projects (especially in Saudi Arabia), and the EXPRO standards if information is publicly available. Understand the context of the Stadium Development Program to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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