Design Manager - Landscape/Infrastructure

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Landscape/Infrastructure Company: AtkinsRéalis Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Job Type: Full-Time Category: Design Management / Project Management (Infrastructure & Landscape) Date Posted: December 24, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the comprehensive design process for landscape and infrastructure projects throughout their entire lifecycle, ensuring alignment with strategic business objectives and client expectations.
• Oversee the coordination and integration of specialized landscape design deliverables, including planting plans, hardscape layouts, irrigation strategies, and grading designs, ensuring adherence to project standards and regional environmental considerations.
• Drive the development and execution of the Design Management Plan (DMP), establishing clear roles and responsibilities through a robust design responsibility matrix, and ensuring compliance with AtkinsRéalis and client processes.
• Facilitate seamless communication and serve as the primary point of contact between clients, design consultants, and other key stakeholders, managing weekly progress meetings, design workshops, and stage-gate approval processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior management position within the design and project delivery framework, requiring a blend of technical landscape/infrastructure expertise and strong project management capabilities. The emphasis on client-facing responsibilities and stakeholder management suggests a critical role in project success and client satisfaction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the management of the entire design process from inception through to construction handover, ensuring all project objectives are met in line with client requirements and AtkinsRéalis standards.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive Design Management Plan (DMP) to guide all design activities, ensuring robust processes are in place for quality assurance, risk mitigation, and stakeholder alignment.
• Oversee and manage the Lead Design Consultant (LDC) and other design consultants, ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality, compliant, and budget-adherent design deliverables.
• Ensure the meticulous coordination of landscape-specific design elements, including planting plans, hardscape layouts, irrigation strategies, and grading designs, verifying their constructability, maintenance feasibility, and suitability for local environmental conditions.
• Facilitate effective communication channels and act as the central point of contact between the client and the LDC team, managing all design-related workshops, reviews, and approval processes.
• Review consultant deliverables, reports, and drawings to guarantee strict compliance with the Project Brief and client specifications, proactively identifying and resolving any discrepancies.
• Manage the procurement process for Design Consultants, assisting clients in selecting appropriate partners and defining clear scopes of services.
• Develop and maintain a detailed design responsibility matrix to clearly delineate roles and responsibilities among the Client, Project Management Consultancy (PMC), Design Consultants, and other stakeholders.
• Assist in the development and implementation of the Project Quality Plan, ensuring design elements meet the highest quality benchmarks.
• Proactively identify, assess, and manage design-related risks that could impact the project schedule, budget, client satisfaction, quality, constructability, or compliance.
• Oversee the effective implementation of Project BIM requirements, collaborating closely with the Project BIM Manager to ensure seamless integration and adherence to standards.
• Ensure the integration of sustainability requirements, including LEED principles, into the design process, working with dedicated LEED support teams to meet client and project objectives.
• Coordinate the preparation of all technical documentation essential for construction tender packages, ensuring clarity and completeness for potential bidders.
• Manage the change management process for design-related changes, working collaboratively with Cost and Commercial Teams to review, recommend, and implement approved changes.
• Assist in value management initiatives during the design stages to identify cost-saving opportunities and enhance project value for the client.
• Develop and manage the statutory approval workflow for all design stages, ensuring alignment with client expectations and local authority requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on managing external consultants (LDC), ensuring quality and compliance, and acting as a key interface between the client and the design team. The inclusion of BIM, sustainability (LEED), and value management indicates a modern, integrated approach to design management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in Design Management, with a significant portion focused on hospitality projects.
• Demonstrated experience in managing the full project lifecycle of complex design projects.
• Proven track record of working effectively within the region, with a preference for candidates with experience in Saudi Arabia.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in Design Management methodologies and best practices for infrastructure and landscape projects.
• Proficiency in managing and coordinating various design consultants, including landscape architects, horticultural consultants, and civil engineers.
• Strong understanding of landscape-specific deliverables such as planting plans, hardscape layouts, irrigation strategies, and grading designs.
• Excellent client-facing and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong professional relationships.
• Proven ability to develop and implement a Design Management Plan (DMP) and establish design responsibility matrices.
• Solid understanding of constructability reviews, maintenance feasibility, and regional environmental conditions relevant to landscape design.
• Proficiency in reviewing technical documentation, drawings, and reports for compliance and quality assurance.
• Strong risk management and change management capabilities within a project delivery context.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, essential for effective team leadership and client interaction.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification processes and implementation.
• Familiarity with local authority standards and guidelines related to landscape design and infrastructure in the UAE and/or Saudi Arabia.
• Knowledge of Project BIM (Building Information Modeling) requirements and management.
• Experience in managing the procurement process for design consultants.
• Familiarity with value engineering and value management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on hospitality projects and regional experience (Saudi Arabia) suggests that the company is looking for specific domain knowledge and cultural/regulatory familiarity. LEED experience is a significant plus, indicating a focus on sustainable design practices.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful management of complex design projects, showcasing the full project lifecycle from conceptualization to construction documentation.
• Provide case studies highlighting the successful coordination and integration of diverse landscape and infrastructure design elements, including planting, hardscape, irrigation, and grading.
• Present examples of Design Management Plans (DMPs) and design responsibility matrices developed and implemented for previous projects.
• Showcase evidence of managing external design consultants (LDCs) and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, compliant, and timely design outputs.
• Include documentation or case studies that illustrate effective risk management and change management processes applied to design challenges.

Process Documentation:

• Detailed examples of workflow design and optimization for managing design consultant activities and client communication protocols.
• Evidence of process implementation and automation strategies used to enhance design review cycles and approval processes.
• Demonstrate the use of metrics and performance analysis to track design progress, quality, and adherence to budget and schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates will be expected to provide tangible proof of their design management capabilities through their portfolio. This includes demonstrating process maturity, strategic planning (DMP), and effective execution in managing complex design interfaces and consultant relationships.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The salary for this role is expected to be competitive within the UAE market for a Design Manager with 10-15 years of experience, particularly in the infrastructure and landscape sector. Based on industry benchmarks and the comprehensive benefits package, an estimated annual salary range of AED 350,000 - AED 550,000 (approximately USD 95,000 - USD 150,000) is anticipated. This range accounts for the senior nature of the role, the specific expertise required, and the cost of living in Abu Dhabi.

Benefits:

• Tax-free salary, providing a significant advantage for expatriates in the UAE.
• Comprehensive life insurance coverage for peace of mind.
• Premium medical insurance for the employee and dependents, ensuring access to quality healthcare.
• Generous annual leave balance, allowing for work-life balance and personal time.
• Flexible and hybrid work solutions, offering adaptability in work arrangements.
• Remote work opportunities outside of the country (specific conditions may apply).
• Company gratuity scheme, a common benefit in the UAE for long-term employees.
• Discretionary bonus program, rewarding performance and company success.
• Annual flight contribution, assisting with travel expenses.
• Relocation assistance to help facilitate a smooth transition to Abu Dhabi.
• Transportation and housing allowances, often provided to support living costs (may be specific to remote work locations or standard for Abu Dhabi roles).
• Employee Wellbeing Program: 24/7 access to specialists in finance, legal matters, family care, personal health, fitness, and nutrition.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, aligning with industry norms in the UAE. However, the role may require flexibility to attend client meetings or address critical design issues outside of standard hours, especially given the project management and client-facing nature of the position.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research of similar Design Manager roles in Abu Dhabi, considering the required experience level, industry (infrastructure/landscape), and the comprehensive benefits package provided by AtkinsRéalis. The benefits are extensive and are a significant part of the overall compensation for roles in the UAE.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AtkinsRéalis operates within the Engineering Services and Nuclear sectors, a global leader in providing integrated solutions for infrastructure and energy systems. Their work spans diverse end markets, focusing on engineering a better future through innovative and sustainable solutions. Company Size: AtkinsRéalis is a large, multinational corporation with a significant global workforce, indicating a structured environment with established processes and opportunities for diverse career development. Founded: While the exact founding date isn't provided in the raw data, AtkinsRéalis has a long-standing history, suggesting a stable and experienced organization with deep industry knowledge. This longevity implies a robust understanding of project delivery and a commitment to long-term growth.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger project management or engineering division, working within a dedicated project team. This team will include other discipline leads, project controls, commercial managers, and potentially dedicated support staff.
• Reporting likely falls under a Programme Director, Design Director, or Senior Project Manager, with direct oversight of Lead Design Consultants (LDCs) and coordination with various technical review teams (PMC or Client).
• Cross-functional collaboration is a cornerstone of this role, requiring close liaison with client representatives, LDC teams, construction teams, commercial departments, and potentially sustainability/BIM specialists.

Methodology:

• Operations within AtkinsRéalis are expected to be data-driven, with a strong emphasis on rigorous analysis to inform design decisions and project strategies.
• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, particularly in managing the complex interfaces between different design disciplines and project phases.
• A commitment to automation and efficiency practices is likely, especially in leveraging BIM and digital tools to streamline processes and enhance project outcomes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: As a global engineering firm, AtkinsRéalis likely adheres to stringent quality, safety, and project management standards. The emphasis on "engineering a better future" suggests a culture that values innovation, sustainability, and impactful project delivery. The scale of the company implies structured career paths and opportunities for global mobility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the design management hierarchy. It requires significant leadership experience, a deep understanding of design processes, and the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships. The Design Manager is responsible for the successful technical and design execution of major projects, directly influencing project outcomes and client satisfaction.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to senior project leadership (Programme Director, Design Director, or Senior Project Manager). They, in turn, manage and direct the Lead Design Consultants (LDCs) and work closely with technical review teams, client representatives, and other project management consultants (PMCs) or internal technical specialists. This structure emphasizes a collaborative yet authoritative approach to design governance.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is profound, directly influencing the quality, cost-effectiveness, constructability, and timely delivery of landscape and infrastructure projects. Effective design management is crucial for mitigating risks, ensuring client satisfaction, achieving sustainability goals, and ultimately contributing to the successful realization of the client's vision and AtkinsRéalis's strategic objectives. Their work underpins the entire project delivery framework.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership: Progression to roles such as Design Director, Programme Director, or overall Project Director, managing larger, more complex, and multi-disciplinary projects.
• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas like sustainable design, BIM strategy, or infrastructure master planning, potentially leading to specialist consultant roles or technical leadership positions.
• Business Development: Transitioning into roles that involve client relationship management, proposal development, and securing new design and project management contracts for AtkinsRéalis.
• Global Mobility: Leveraging experience to take on design management roles in other international AtkinsRéalis offices, broadening exposure to different project types and markets.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for experienced design professionals to move into broader project leadership or specialized technical leadership roles. The global nature of AtkinsRéalis provides significant potential for international career development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and is described as offering flexible and hybrid work solutions. This suggests a modern office environment that balances collaborative in-office work with the flexibility of remote or hybrid arrangements. Office Location(s): The primary location specified is "AE.Abu Dhabi.Trade Centre Building." This indicates a central business district location, likely providing good accessibility and proximity to other professional services and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among project teams, enabling effective communication and problem-solving among diverse disciplines.
• Access to essential operations tools and technology, including project management software, BIM platforms, and communication systems, is expected to be standard.
• Opportunities for interaction with the broader design and project management teams within AtkinsRéalis are ample, facilitating knowledge sharing and professional networking.

Work Schedule: While the standard work week is 40 hours, the nature of project management and design leadership often requires a degree of flexibility to meet deadlines, attend critical client meetings, or respond to urgent project needs. The hybrid model allows for a structured yet adaptable schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model and emphasis on flexibility suggest a progressive work environment that values employee well-being and productivity. The Abu Dhabi location places the role within a dynamic regional hub for major infrastructure development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on experience, qualifications, and alignment with the core requirements (10-15 years, architecture degree, hospitality project experience).
• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion covering design management methodologies, landscape/infrastructure design coordination, consultant management, risk assessment, and specific project examples. Expect questions on constructability, sustainability (LEED), and BIM.
• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present a curated portfolio showcasing their most relevant design management experience. This will involve discussing key projects, highlighting their role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and demonstrable outcomes.
• Stakeholder/Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of client-facing skills, leadership style, team collaboration abilities, and alignment with AtkinsRéalis's values and culture. This may involve meeting with senior project leadership.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or hiring director to confirm suitability and discuss final terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type (hospitality, infrastructure) or by showcasing specific skills (design planning, consultant management, risk mitigation).
• Content: For each project, clearly articulate:
  • The project's scope, objectives, and your specific role/responsibilities.
  • Key design challenges faced (e.g., site constraints, client demands, regulatory hurdles).
  • Your strategic approach to managing the design process and consultants.
  • Specific solutions implemented for landscape and infrastructure elements.
  • Demonstrable outcomes: quality improvements, cost savings, schedule adherence, successful approvals, client satisfaction.
• Metrics: Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., "Reduced design review cycle by 15%", "Managed a design budget of X million AED", "Successfully incorporated X sustainability features").
• Presentation: Be prepared to present 2-3 key projects in detail, focusing on your leadership and problem-solving capabilities. Practice your narrative to be concise and impactful.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for scenario-based questions: "How would you handle a dispute with a lead design consultant regarding a specific design element?" or "What steps would you take if a critical design deliverable is delayed?"
• Prepare to discuss your approach to risk management, change control, and ensuring compliance with BIM and sustainability standards.
• Familiarize yourself with AtkinsRéalis's projects and values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a critical component for this role. Candidates should prepare to articulate not just what they did, but how they managed the design process, influenced outcomes, and led teams/consultants to success. Demonstrating a structured, process-driven approach to design management will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for schedule management, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or company-specific intranets for team communication and document sharing.
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems like SharePoint, Aconex, or similar for organizing and managing project documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Design Review Tools: Ability to use software for commenting on and managing design drawings and documents (e.g., Bluebeam Revu, Adobe Acrobat Pro).
• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating progress reports, risk registers, and status updates, potentially using advanced Excel functions or integrated project management dashboards.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data feeds into broader project management and client relationship systems is beneficial.
• Familiarity with any automation tools used to streamline design review workflows or reporting processes.
• Experience with integration concepts between design software and project management platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, a Design Manager in a large firm like AtkinsRéalis would be expected to be proficient in industry-standard project management and collaboration tools. A strong understanding of BIM management and potentially LEED compliance tracking tools would also be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality design outcomes that meet or exceed client expectations and industry standards.
• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all professional dealings, fostering trust with clients, consultants, and colleagues.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Encouraging a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teams work together effectively to achieve common goals.
• Innovation & Sustainability: Driving innovative design solutions and championing sustainable practices that contribute to a better future for the planet.
• Client Focus: Placing the client's needs and objectives at the forefront of all design and project management activities.

Collaboration Style:

• The company likely fosters a collaborative approach, emphasizing open communication and mutual respect across all project functions and disciplines.
• Expect a culture that encourages constructive feedback and continuous improvement of processes and project delivery methods.
• Knowledge sharing is vital in a large organization; therefore, active participation in sharing best practices and lessons learned is often encouraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: AtkinsRéalis's stated mission "engineering a better future" suggests a culture that is forward-thinking, responsible, and impact-oriented. The emphasis on diverse characteristics and perspectives in their hiring practices indicates a commitment to inclusivity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the often-conflicting demands and expectations of clients, design consultants, regulatory bodies, and internal teams.
• Ensuring Design Quality & Compliance: Maintaining high standards across all design deliverables, particularly with multiple consultants and potentially complex regulatory frameworks.
• Risk Mitigation: Proactively identifying and managing design-related risks, such as constructability issues, budget overruns, or schedule delays, and developing effective mitigation strategies.
• Adopting New Technologies: Staying abreast of and implementing new design technologies, such as advanced BIM capabilities or digital collaboration tools, to enhance efficiency and outcomes.
• Regional Nuances: Navigating specific local authority standards, environmental conditions, and construction practices in the UAE and potentially Saudi Arabia.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Opportunities to gain certifications or training in advanced project management methodologies, risk management, or contract administration.
• Sustainability & BIM Specialization: Deepen expertise in LEED, sustainable design principles, or advanced BIM implementation and management through internal training or external courses.
• Leadership Development: Access to leadership training programs designed to enhance management, communication, and strategic decision-making skills.
• Industry Exposure: Participation in industry conferences, workshops, and networking events to stay current with trends and build professional connections.
• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within AtkinsRéalis, gaining insights into career progression and strategic leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to complex design and project management roles. AtkinsRéalis's commitment to employee development suggests that opportunities to overcome these challenges and grow professionally will be available through structured programs and on-the-job learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing and implementing a Design Management Plan for a large-scale infrastructure and landscape project." (Focus on structure, key components, and stakeholder involvement.)
• "How do you ensure seamless coordination between landscape architects, civil engineers, and other disciplines to achieve a cohesive design?" (Highlight communication strategies, integration processes, and conflict resolution.)
• "Walk me through a challenging situation where you had to manage a difficult design consultant or navigate a significant design change. What was your strategy, and what was the outcome?" (Emphasize problem-solving, negotiation, and documentation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AtkinsRéalis and this specific Design Manager role?" (Research company values, recent projects, and connect them to your career aspirations.)
• "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment, especially when working with external consultants?" (Discuss leadership style, communication techniques, and team motivation.)
• "How do you incorporate sustainability principles (like LEED) into the design process, and what is your experience in managing these requirements?" (Prepare specific examples of integrating green design strategies.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Selectivity: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your design management experience, particularly those with significant landscape/infrastructure components and complex stakeholder environments.
• Narrative: For each project, craft a compelling story that highlights your strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the tangible impact of your management. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
• Visuals: Use high-quality visuals (renderings, site plans, photos) if possible to illustrate your projects and design concepts.
• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice presenting your key achievements and learnings efficiently, focusing on what's most relevant to the role.
• Engagement: Be prepared to answer specific questions about your portfolio projects and discuss your methodologies in detail.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical understanding (landscape/infrastructure design), robust project management skills, and strong leadership/interpersonal capabilities. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to visually and verbally articulate your expertise.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the AtkinsRéalis careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor your resume to highlight your 10-15 years of design management experience, focusing on infrastructure and landscape projects, and emphasizing your architectural background. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Prepare a concise and impactful portfolio that showcases 2-3 of your most relevant projects. Ensure it clearly articulates your role, challenges, strategic approach, and the successful outcomes of your design management efforts.
• Research AtkinsRéalis's company values, recent projects in the UAE, and their approach to sustainability and innovation to articulate your interest and cultural fit during interviews.
• Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method for behavioral questions and prepare to discuss your methodologies for design planning, consultant management, risk assessment, and stakeholder engagement.

⚠️ 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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