Review Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Review Design Manager

Company: KEO International Consultants

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Structural Engineering

Date Posted: March 17, 2026

Experience Level: 15+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the comprehensive design process, with a specialized focus on structural engineering principles and applications.

• Drive interdisciplinary coordination across structural, architectural, MEP, and other critical project disciplines to ensure cohesive design outcomes.

• Conduct thorough reviews and validations of design drawings, technical reports, and shop drawings to uphold quality and compliance standards.

• Ensure the efficient and timely delivery of all design packages, aligning with project timelines and client requirements.

• Act as a key liaison with consultants, contractors, and stakeholders to proactively resolve technical challenges and facilitate design progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level Design Manager with a strong emphasis on structural engineering expertise. The "Review" in the title suggests a significant responsibility for quality assurance and technical validation of designs produced by internal teams or external consultants. Given the company's profile in mega projects and the GCC region, this role will likely involve high-stakes decision-making and a deep understanding of regional construction practices and design codes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the end-to-end design lifecycle, with a primary emphasis on the structural engineering aspects of large-scale construction projects.

• Facilitate seamless collaboration and coordination among various design disciplines, including structural, architectural, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), and others, ensuring design integration and constructability.

• Critically review and approve design drawings, technical specifications, calculations, and shop drawings submitted by consultants and contractors, ensuring adherence to project scope, quality, and regulatory requirements.

• Manage the production and submission schedule for all design deliverables, ensuring key milestones are met and potential delays are proactively addressed.

• Engage actively with external consultants, main contractors, and key project stakeholders to review design progress, address queries, and resolve complex technical issues that may arise during the design and construction phases.

• Provide essential technical support and clarification to the construction team during the execution phase, interpreting design intent and assisting in the resolution of site-specific challenges.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant international and regional design codes, standards, and client specifications throughout the design process.

• Contribute to the development and implementation of design management plans and strategies for complex, multi-disciplinary projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical oversight and project management. The emphasis on "mega projects" and "GCC region" implies a need for experience with complex structural challenges (e.g., high-rises, large-span structures, seismic considerations) and familiarity with specific regional building codes and construction methods. The role also requires strong stakeholder management skills to navigate the complexities of large-scale project environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil/Structural Engineering is mandatory.

Experience:

• A minimum of 15 years of progressive professional experience in civil/structural engineering, with a substantial portion dedicated to design management.

• Proven track record of successful contributions to "mega projects" (typically defined as projects with significant scale, complexity, and budget).

Required Skills:

• Structural Engineering Expertise: Deep understanding of structural analysis, design principles, materials, and construction methodologies for a wide range of building types and infrastructure.

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead, manage, and coordinate complex design processes from concept to construction documentation.

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Skill in integrating and harmonizing designs across multiple engineering and architectural disciplines, utilizing tools like BIM and clash detection software.

• Design Review & Validation: Meticulous attention to detail in reviewing technical drawings, reports, and specifications against project requirements and industry standards.

• GCC Market Acumen: In-depth knowledge of design codes, standards (e.g., Saudi Building Code, Eurocodes, relevant international standards), and construction practices prevalent in the GCC.

• Leadership & Team Management: Ability to lead design teams, motivate consultants, and manage stakeholder expectations effectively.

• Communication & Negotiation: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear articulation of technical concepts and effective negotiation with diverse parties.

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to identify and resolve complex technical and project-related issues.

• Software Proficiency: Competency in industry-standard design and coordination software, including AutoCAD, Revit, and Navisworks.

Preferred Skills:

• Project Management Certification: Possession of PMP (Project Management Professional) or a similar recognized project management certification.

• Advanced BIM Knowledge: Expertise in Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows beyond basic proficiency, including advanced coordination and data management.

• Contract Administration: Familiarity with various forms of construction contracts and their implications on the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "mega projects" and "GCC experience" requirements are critical filters for this role. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate specific examples of their involvement in large-scale projects within the region, highlighting their responsibilities and contributions. Proficiency in software like Navisworks is essential for interdisciplinary coordination and clash detection on complex projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Structural Design Case Studies: Detailed examples of complex structural designs managed or overseen, showcasing problem-solving, innovative solutions, and adherence to stringent codes.

• Design Coordination Examples: Demonstrations of how interdisciplinary coordination was managed on past projects, including examples of clash detection reports, resolved conflicts, and integrated design packages.

• Design Review Documentation: Samples of design review comments, validation reports, and sign-off procedures, illustrating a rigorous approach to quality assurance.

• Project Delivery Timelines: Evidence of successfully meeting design delivery milestones on large-scale projects, potentially including project schedules and demonstrated adherence to them.

• Stakeholder Engagement Records: Examples of how technical issues were communicated and resolved with consultants, contractors, and clients, highlighting negotiation and collaboration skills.

Process Documentation:

• Design Management Plan (DMP) Samples: If available, examples of DMPs developed for previous projects, outlining design strategies, coordination protocols, review processes, and quality control measures.

• Workflow Optimization Examples: Documentation of any processes implemented to improve design efficiency, reduce errors, or enhance collaboration within design teams.

• Technical Issue Resolution: Case studies detailing the process of identifying, analyzing, and resolving significant technical challenges encountered during the design phase.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a portfolio that clearly articulates their role and contributions to the design process, with a strong emphasis on structural engineering. Focusing on specific project achievements, quantifiable results (e.g., time saved, errors reduced), and demonstrating a systematic approach to design management and quality assurance will be crucial for this role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Competitive Package: A comprehensive remuneration package commensurate with the seniority and experience required.

• Health and Well-being Programs: Access to company-wide health and well-being initiatives.

• On-Demand Counselling Services: Confidential professional support for employees.

• Regular Workplace Clinics: On-site or accessible health services.

• Hybrid Working Arrangements: Flexibility to balance on-site and remote work, subject to project needs and team collaboration requirements.

• Individual Athletic Sponsorship: Support for personal fitness and athletic pursuits.

• Study Assistance Sponsorship: Opportunities for continued learning and professional development.

• Employee Referral Rewards: Incentives for successfully referring qualified candidates.

• Global Mobility: Potential for internal career advancement and movement within KEO's international network.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with potential for extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases or to meet urgent design deadlines, common in mega-project environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on KEO's standing as a major international consultant and typical compensation for senior, specialized roles in the GCC construction market. The benefits listed are explicitly mentioned in the company description, highlighting a commitment to employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) / Project Management Consultancy (PMC)

Company Size: KEO International Consultants is a large, established firm, recognized as one of the Top 225 International Design Firms and Top 20 International PM/CM Firms by ENR, and ranked among the largest global architecture firms. This indicates a significant global presence with a substantial employee base, likely numbering in the thousands.

Founded: Over 60 years ago, KEO has a long-standing history and a deep-rooted presence in the global built environment sector, particularly in the Middle East.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: This role is within the design management function, which is a critical component of KEO's project delivery framework. The team likely comprises various engineering disciplines (structural, civil, MEP, etc.), architectural teams, and project managers.

• Reporting Structure: The Review Design Manager will likely report to a Senior Design Director, Head of Design, or a Project Director, depending on the specific project organizational structure. They will, in turn, manage and guide design consultants and potentially junior design managers.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Expect extensive collaboration with project management teams, construction management, procurement, client representatives, and external design consultants and contractors.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While primarily creative, KEO's approach emphasizes data and technical rigor, especially in structural engineering, to inform design decisions and ensure project success.

• Integrated Design Process: A focus on seamless integration of all design disciplines from the outset to mitigate conflicts and optimize constructability.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Robust processes for reviewing, validating, and approving designs to meet international standards and client expectations.

• Continuous Improvement: An emphasis on learning from past projects and adapting methodologies to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

Company Website: https://careers.keo.com

📝 Enhancement Note: KEO's long history and recognition by industry publications suggest a stable, professional, and technically proficient organization. The company's emphasis on innovation and ambitious projects implies a dynamic environment where experienced professionals can make a significant impact. The "creative enterprise" description indicates a culture that values innovative solutions within a structured project delivery framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the design and engineering management track. It's a leadership role focused on technical oversight, quality assurance, and complex problem-solving within the design phase of major projects. It sits above individual contributor engineers and junior design managers.

Reporting Structure: The Review Design Manager typically reports to a Project Director or Head of Design, managing a portfolio of design consultants and potentially overseeing the work of other design managers or coordinators. They are a key technical authority within the project delivery team.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is profound, directly influencing the technical integrity, constructability, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery of KEO's mega-projects. Errors or inefficiencies in the design phase can lead to significant cost overruns, delays, and safety issues during construction. Conversely, effective design management ensures projects are built to specification, on time, and within budget, directly contributing to KEO's reputation and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership: Progression to roles such as Head of Design, Director of Engineering, or Executive Project Director on even larger and more complex programs.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific structural engineering domains (e.g., high-rise structures, specialized foundations, advanced materials) or expanding into broader project management leadership.

• Client-Side Roles: Transitioning to client-side roles within major development organizations, leveraging extensive design and project delivery experience.

• Mentorship & Training: Opportunity to mentor and develop junior engineers and design managers, contributing to the firm's talent pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a crucial stepping stone for experienced structural engineers looking to move into high-level design leadership. The "Review" aspect suggests a path towards quality assurance leadership or a more strategic oversight role in design governance.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: KEO operates as a major international consultancy, meaning the Riyadh office is likely a modern, professional corporate environment, designed to support large project teams. It will offer collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms, and potentially specialized technical areas.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This implies working within a major metropolitan hub with significant ongoing infrastructure and development projects. The specific office location would likely be in a commercial district.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office will foster collaboration among various project teams, including design, project management, and construction management. Expect a dynamic and fast-paced atmosphere.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to robust IT infrastructure, including high-performance workstations, reliable network connectivity, and relevant design and project management software (CAD, BIM, project management platforms).

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with a diverse group of professionals, including engineers, architects, project managers, and client representatives, both internally and externally.

Work Schedule: While the standard work week is Monday to Friday, the demands of mega-projects, especially in the GCC, often require flexibility. This may include occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines, attend urgent meetings, or resolve immediate technical issues. The hybrid work arrangement offers some flexibility, but on-site presence will be crucial for coordination and design reviews.

📝 Enhancement Note: Riyadh is a rapidly developing city with a strong focus on large-scale infrastructure and urban development projects, aligning perfectly with KEO's expertise and the nature of this role. The hybrid work model is a modern benefit, but the demands of coordinating complex designs for mega-projects will necessitate significant on-site engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications for minimum qualifications, particularly focusing on GCC experience and mega-project involvement.

• Technical Interview: A deep dive into structural engineering knowledge, design management experience, and understanding of regional codes and standards, likely conducted by senior engineering or design management personnel.

• Case Study/Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will be asked to present their portfolio, detailing specific projects, their role, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. This will focus on structural design, coordination, and review processes.

• Stakeholder/Cultural Fit Interview: An interview with a senior leader (e.g., Project Director) to assess leadership style, communication skills, problem-solving approach, and alignment with KEO's company culture and values.

• Final Offer: Subject to successful completion of all interview stages and background checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly stating the project's scale, type, your specific role, and key responsibilities.

• Highlight Structural Expertise: For each relevant project, detail the structural challenges, design solutions, materials used, and any innovative approaches taken.

• Demonstrate Coordination: Provide examples of how you managed interdisciplinary coordination, showcasing your ability to integrate structural design with architectural, MEP, and other elements. Use visuals or diagrams if possible.

• Showcase Review & Validation: Include examples of your review process for drawings, reports, or shop drawings. Quantify improvements or issues identified and resolved.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate your impact – e.g., "Reduced design clashes by X%," "Ensured timely delivery of Y design packages," "Contributed to Z cost savings through design optimization."

• GCC Context: Explicitly mention and elaborate on your experience with specific GCC design codes and construction practices.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical structural engineering or design management challenges relevant to mega-projects. Think about how you would approach problem-solving, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.

• Coordination Scenarios: Practice explaining how you would resolve conflicts between disciplines (e.g., structural vs. architectural, MEP clashes).

• Code Interpretation: Be ready to discuss your familiarity with specific international and regional design codes and how you ensure compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates must be able to visually and verbally articulate their experience and expertise, demonstrating not just what they did, but how they did it and the impact it had on project success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD (essential for 2D drafting and reviewing).

• BIM Software: Revit (critical for 3D modeling, interdisciplinary coordination, clash detection, and documentation).

• Coordination Software: Navisworks (essential for aggregating models from different disciplines, clash detection, 4D sequencing, and visualization).

• Structural Analysis Software: Proficiency with industry-standard structural analysis and design software (e.g., ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, SAFE) is highly beneficial for understanding and reviewing consultant work.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Information Systems (PMIS): Familiarity with platforms used for document control, progress tracking, and reporting (e.g., Aconex, Procore, Asite).

• BIM 360/Autodesk Construction Cloud: For cloud-based collaboration, model management, and issue tracking.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced skills in Excel for data analysis and reporting, Word for technical documentation, and PowerPoint for presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with project management and potentially client relationship management systems is advantageous.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with enterprise-level document control systems is crucial for managing the vast amount of information generated in mega-projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Revit and Navisworks is paramount for effective interdisciplinary coordination and design review in modern mega-projects. The ability to review and understand structural analysis outputs from specialized software is also a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Design: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound, and innovative structural designs that meet and exceed client expectations.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where open communication, mutual respect, and shared problem-solving are encouraged across all disciplines and project teams.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of professional conduct, honesty, and ethical decision-making in all project dealings.

• Efficiency & Optimization: Continuously seeking ways to improve design processes, reduce waste, and deliver projects effectively and cost-efficiently.

• Safety & Compliance: Prioritizing safety in design and ensuring strict adherence to all relevant codes, standards, and regulations.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Participative: Actively engaging with all stakeholders, encouraging dialogue, and proactively seeking input to ensure alignment and resolve issues early.

• Constructive Feedback: Providing and receiving feedback in a professional and constructive manner to drive continuous improvement in design quality and process efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where lessons learned and best practices are shared across teams and projects to build collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: KEO's emphasis on being a "creative enterprise" suggests a culture that balances innovation with the rigor required for large-scale engineering projects. The company's long history and global presence imply a professional, structured, yet collaborative work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Mega Projects: Managing the intricate interdependencies of numerous design disciplines, vast project scales, and extended timelines on mega-projects presents significant coordination and oversight challenges.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Resolving complex structural issues that may arise during the design phase, requiring deep technical expertise and innovative solutions.

• Stakeholder Management: Navigating the diverse interests and expectations of clients, contractors, consultants, and regulatory bodies in a high-stakes environment.

• Pace and Pressure: The demanding schedule and high-pressure environment typical of mega-projects require resilience, adaptability, and effective time management.

• Evolving Codes & Standards: Staying abreast of rapidly changing international and regional design codes and implementing them effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a wide array of iconic and technically challenging mega-projects offers unparalleled learning opportunities.

• Mentorship: Learning from and mentoring highly experienced professionals within KEO's global network.

• Professional Development: Access to internal training programs, potential sponsorship for external courses, and opportunities to attend industry conferences.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways for progression into higher leadership roles within the firm's project delivery framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to the nature of mega-projects and senior-level design management. Success will depend on leveraging strong technical skills, robust management practices, and effective communication.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Management Approach: "Describe your philosophy and methodology for managing the design process on a mega-project, specifically focusing on structural engineering." (Prepare to discuss phases, key controls, risk management, and quality assurance).

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: "How do you ensure effective coordination between structural, architectural, and MEP disciplines to prevent clashes and optimize constructability?" (Prepare to discuss tools like Navisworks, BIM workflows, and communication strategies).

• Technical Issue Resolution: "Walk me through a complex structural engineering challenge you faced on a past project and how you resolved it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving process, technical reasoning, and collaboration).

• Code Compliance: "How do you ensure that designs comply with the latest Saudi Building Codes and other relevant international standards?" (Discuss your review process, reliance on specialists, and staying updated).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of KEO, why are you a good fit for this Review Design Manager role and our company culture?" (Research KEO's projects, values, and recent achievements. Connect your experience to their stated mission).

• "How do you approach managing and motivating a team of external design consultants?" (Discuss leadership style, communication, performance management, and contract adherence).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your project experiences as compelling narratives. Start with the challenge, detail your actions and strategies, and conclude with the positive outcomes and impact.

• Visual Aids: Use high-quality images, diagrams, and charts to illustrate complex designs, coordination efforts, and data. Ensure clarity and conciseness.

• Focus on "Review": Emphasize your role in quality assurance, validation, and ensuring the technical integrity of designs. Explain your review process and criteria.

• Quantify Impact: Use numbers to demonstrate the value you brought to projects (e.g., cost savings, time efficiencies, risk reduction).

• Tailor to KEO: Highlight projects and experiences most relevant to KEO's portfolio and the specific requirements of this role (mega-projects, GCC experience, structural focus).

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to speak extensively about their portfolio. The "Review" aspect of the title suggests interviewers will be looking for a critical, analytical mindset and a strong eye for detail in design validation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Review Design Manager position:

• Submit your resume and a comprehensive portfolio through the KEO International Consultants careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features your structural engineering work on mega-projects within the GCC region. Detail your responsibilities in design review, interdisciplinary coordination, and technical problem-solving. Include specific examples of how you ensured compliance with regional codes and standards.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords such as "Structural Engineering," "Design Management," "Mega Projects," "GCC Experience," "Interdisciplinary Coordination," "Design Review," "AutoCAD," "Revit," and "Navisworks." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio and articulating your experience. Prepare detailed examples for common interview questions related to technical challenges, design management strategies, and stakeholder engagement.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research KEO International Consultants' recent projects, company values, and strategic objectives. Understand their position in the market and how your expertise aligns with their ongoing and future endeavors.

⚠️ 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.