Senior Design Manager | Al Futtaim Construction | Al Futtaim Contracting

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager
Company: Al Futtaim Construction | Al Futtaim Contracting (Al Futtaim Private Company LLC)
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Construction Design Management / GTM Operations
Date Posted: October 4, 2025
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and manage all design functions, ensuring seamless coordination between design, operations, procurement, planning, and commercial teams to meet project timelines and client expectations.
• Drive value engineering initiatives and actively monitor design costs to mitigate commercial risks and enhance project profitability.
• Collaborate closely with operations to integrate Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) considerations into construction activities, minimizing risks.
• Provide crucial technical support to bid and procurement teams, contributing to successful tender submissions and contract negotiations.
• Lead and mentor a diverse team of design professionals, fostering a collaborative environment focused on delivering high-quality, compliant design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Design Manager within Al Futtaim Contracting, a major player in the construction industry. While not a traditional Revenue Operations (RevOps) or Sales Operations role, the emphasis on coordination with commercial, planning, and procurement teams, along with risk management and value engineering, aligns with GTM (Go-To-Market) operational principles of ensuring project success through efficient resource allocation and risk mitigation. The role requires a strong understanding of project lifecycles, stakeholder management, and the ability to translate strategic objectives into actionable design plans, mirroring the strategic and operational demands of GTM leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Implement and manage the Design Management Plan (DMP), ensuring timely review, coordination, and approval of all design deliverables in strict adherence to program requirements and risk mitigation strategies.
• Lead and conduct regular progress meetings with individual and multiple trade contractors to guarantee the provision of fully coordinated and integrated design information.
• Ensure all design activities and deliverables strictly comply with contract drawings, specifications, and Employer's requirements, maintaining a high standard of quality and accuracy.
• Actively collaborate with Commercial and Planning teams to identify potential variations and program delays, providing essential support for the preparation and submission of claims and Extension of Time (EOT) requests.
• Oversee the change management process by proactively identifying missing contract information, managing Information Request System (IRS) logs, resolving complex design issues, and meticulously documenting all design changes.
• Maintain the currency of all BIM model information, coordinating effectively with various trades to ensure timely delivery and integration of updated models.
• Provide effective guidance, mentorship, and technical support to junior design staff, fostering their professional development and ensuring knowledge transfer within the team.
• Manage the activities of interfacing subcontractors and sub-consultants to ensure comprehensive coordination and punctual delivery of their respective design elements.
• Ensure the timely release and approval of all shop drawings, material approval requests, calculations, and other related submissions, aligning with program timelines.
• Prepare and issue necessary correspondence to Clients and Subcontractors to safeguard the company's interests and contractual obligations.
• Maintain accurate instruction trackers, meticulously recording all design changes and potential delay events as they arise.
• Provide essential technical assistance to other company departments as required, contributing to overall project success.
• Ensure that current and relevant design information is readily accessible to all project delivery staff and subcontractors, facilitating smooth project execution.
• Prepare comprehensive handover design documentation in a timely and compliant manner, meeting all project-specific requirements.
• Review and approve sample boards and mock-up units prior to submission to the client or consultant, ensuring quality and compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on process adherence, risk management, and cross-functional collaboration, which are critical in operations. The emphasis on managing claims, EOTs, and change orders points to a deep involvement in the commercial and contractual aspects of project delivery, requiring a strategic operational mindset.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's diploma in Architecture, Structural, Civil, or MEP Engineering. A degree in Architecture is highly preferred.

Experience:

• 15 to 20 years of comprehensive experience within the construction industry, specifically with Tier 1 Main Contractors in the GCC region, with a strong preference for UAE-based experience.
• Minimum of 10 years of direct experience in design management roles, or a fully qualified professional with at least 5 years of Post-Qualification Experience (PQE) and an intermediate-level professional qualification.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven expertise in managing the entire design lifecycle for complex construction projects, from inception to handover.
• BIM Modeling Proficiency: Strong understanding and practical application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) standards and workflows for coordination and information management.
• Leadership & Team Management: Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and motivate a diverse team of architects, engineers, and coordinators, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Stakeholder Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, enabling effective engagement with clients, consultants, PMC teams, and subcontractors.
• Risk Analysis & Mitigation: Ability to identify, assess, and manage design and construction-related risks, implementing proactive mitigation strategies.
• Contractual & Commercial Acumen: Proficiency in understanding contract requirements, identifying variations, and supporting claims preparation and Extension of Time (EOT) submissions.
• International Standards Compliance: Thorough knowledge of international construction standards, building codes, and regulatory requirements.
• HSE Protocol Adherence: Commitment to and understanding of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) protocols within construction environments.

Preferred Skills:

• Expertise in value engineering and identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or safety.
• Experience with advanced project management software and collaboration platforms.
• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and drive consensus on design decisions.
• Talent development and mentorship capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement (15-20 years) and the specific mention of Tier 1 Main Contractors and GCC/UAE experience indicate a need for candidates with a deep understanding of large-scale, complex construction operations and the associated regulatory and market nuances. The emphasis on BIM, risk analysis, and contractual knowledge aligns with the operational rigor expected in managing significant construction projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Management Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 complex construction projects managed from a design perspective, detailing the project scope, challenges, your specific role, and the successful outcomes achieved.
• BIM Integration Examples: Provide evidence of how BIM was utilized for coordination, clash detection, and facility management integration, demonstrating a tangible impact on project efficiency or risk reduction.
• Value Engineering Proposals: Include examples of identified value engineering opportunities, quantifying potential cost savings and demonstrating how these were presented and implemented.
• Risk Mitigation Strategies: Present a case study outlining a significant design risk encountered, detailing your approach to analysis, mitigation, and the resulting impact on project delivery.
• Stakeholder Management Documentation: Illustrate how you managed communication and resolved design-related conflicts with clients, consultants, and subcontractors, using examples of formal correspondence or meeting minutes (anonymized if necessary).

Process Documentation:

• Design Management Plan (DMP) Example: A sample or template of a Design Management Plan, demonstrating understanding of its components, implementation, and monitoring phases.
• Change Management Workflow: Visual representation or detailed description of a change management process, highlighting how design changes are tracked, approved, and communicated.
• Subcontractor Coordination Process: Outline the methodology used to ensure effective coordination among various trade subcontractors, including key checkpoints and deliverables.
• HSE Integration in Design: Demonstrate how HSE considerations are embedded within the design process, with examples of safety reviews or risk assessments conducted during design stages.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority, a robust portfolio is critical. It should not just list projects but demonstrate a deep understanding of the processes involved in design management, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement within a large-scale construction context. The emphasis should be on quantifiable achievements and the strategic application of operational principles to achieve project success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers with 15-20 years of experience in Dubai, UAE, the estimated annual salary range is AED 400,000 - AED 650,000 (approximately USD 109,000 - USD 177,000). This range is highly dependent on the specific project scope, individual qualifications, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
• Generous paid annual leave, typically 25-30 days per year.
• Relocation assistance and accommodation allowance may be provided for expatriate hires.
• End-of-service benefits as per UAE labor law.
• Opportunities for professional development and training, including certifications and courses.
• Access to company-wide employee benefits and discounts programs.
• Contributions to a pension or provident fund, if applicable.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Sunday to Thursday, from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM or 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Overtime may be required to meet project deadlines and critical milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on current market data for senior-level construction management roles in Dubai, considering the extensive experience required. Benefits packages in the UAE for such positions are generally competitive, often including housing allowances or company-provided accommodation for expatriates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Engineering Services, Contracting, Infrastructure Development. Al-Futtaim Contracting is a significant division within the larger Al-Futtaim Group, which operates across diverse sectors including automotive, financial services, real estate, retail, and healthcare. This broad diversification provides a stable and expansive operational backdrop. Company Size: Al-Futtaim Group employs over 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries, indicating a large-scale, multinational organization with significant operational depth and resources. Founded: The Al-Futtaim Group was established in the 1930s, signifying a long history of business operations, stability, and deep market understanding within the regions it serves.

Team Structure:

• Design Department Hierarchy: The Senior Design Manager likely leads a dedicated design department comprising Architects, Structural Engineers, MEP Engineers, Design Coordinators, and BIM Specialists.
• Reporting Lines: This role typically reports to a Director of Design, Head of Engineering, or a Senior Project Director, with direct oversight of the design team's output.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Integral collaboration with Operations, Planning, Commercial, Procurement, HSE, and Project Management teams is a core aspect of this role, requiring strong interdepartmental communication and alignment.

Methodology:

• Project Delivery Framework: Al-Futtaim Contracting likely adheres to established project management methodologies (e.g., FIDIC, PRINCE2, or internal frameworks) for managing large-scale construction projects.
• Design Review & Approval Process: A structured process for design reviews, risk assessments, value engineering, and client/consultant approvals is fundamental.
• Technology Integration: Emphasis on leveraging technology, including BIM, for enhanced coordination, visualization, and project management efficiency.

Company Website: https://www.alfuttaim.com/ (Group Level) and https://www.alfuttaim.com/our-businesses/construction/ (Contracting Division)

📝 Enhancement Note: Al-Futtaim Group's long history and diverse operations suggest a culture that values stability, long-term relationships, and excellence across its business units. The contracting division's role within this conglomerate implies a focus on robust project execution and operational efficiency.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management position, indicating a significant level of responsibility and strategic input within the construction project lifecycle. It sits at a critical junction between the strategic planning phase and the operational execution of construction projects. Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager reports to senior project leadership (e.g., Project Director) and leads a specialized team, indicating a key contributor to project success and a manager of significant resources and deliverables. Operations Impact: The role directly influences project cost, schedule, quality, and risk profile. Effective design management is crucial for ensuring that construction operations are efficient, safe, and aligned with commercial objectives, thereby having a substantial impact on overall project profitability and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership: Potential progression to roles such as Director of Design, Head of Engineering, or a broader Project Director role overseeing multiple projects or larger infrastructure developments.
• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like BIM management, sustainable design, or complex structural engineering coordination.
• International Mobility: Al-Futtaim Group's presence in multiple countries may offer opportunities for international assignments and exposure to diverse construction markets.
• Mentorship & Training: Formal and informal opportunities to mentor junior staff, develop leadership skills, and participate in advanced training programs relevant to construction management and engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a large, established organization. The growth potential is significant, moving from managing design for specific projects to overseeing design strategy for entire divisions or large portfolios.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, involving extensive desk work, meetings, and coordination. It is part of the Al Futtaim Contracting operations, likely within a corporate office environment that supports multiple projects. Office Location(s): The primary location is Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with potential for site visits to project locations within Dubai or the wider UAE. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic office setting with frequent interaction with project teams, including engineers, planners, commercial managers, and procurement specialists.
• Tools & Technology: Access to standard office software, specialized design and BIM software, project management platforms, and communication tools.
• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design review sessions, and cross-functional workshops are integral to the daily workflow.

Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility often required to attend critical meetings, site visits, or address urgent project needs that may fall outside standard hours. This aligns with the demanding nature of project-based work in construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a senior management role in a large construction firm, emphasizing collaboration, project deadlines, and the use of specialized tools. The on-site nature of the role is standard for construction management positions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications and CVs to assess basic qualifications and experience against the job requirements.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a Director of Design or Senior Project Manager) to evaluate technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and alignment with the role's responsibilities. This stage will likely probe into specific project experiences and problem-solving approaches.
• Technical/Panel Interview: May involve a panel of senior engineers, operations leads, or commercial managers to assess in-depth technical knowledge, BIM proficiency, risk management strategies, and contract understanding. Case studies or hypothetical scenarios may be presented.
• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a curated selection of their work, focusing on key projects, design management processes, and quantifiable achievements. This is a critical stage for demonstrating practical application of skills.
• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion with senior leadership to confirm suitability and discuss terms of employment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Project Selection: Choose 2-3 of your most impactful and relevant projects that showcase your design management expertise on large-scale construction projects.
• Structure: For each project, clearly articulate the project brief, your specific role and responsibilities, the design challenges encountered, the solutions implemented (especially regarding coordination, risk, and value engineering), and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements).
• Process Focus: Emphasize the processes you employed, such as your DMP, change management workflow, and coordination strategies. Use visual aids where appropriate (e.g., diagrams, flowcharts).
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For instance, "Reduced design clashes by 30% through proactive BIM coordination," or "Identified value engineering savings of AED 5 million."
• Tailor to the Role: Highlight experience relevant to Al Futtaim Contracting's known projects or market segments if possible.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Coordination Scenario: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach coordinating design between MEP, structural, and architectural teams on a complex high-rise building or a large infrastructure project.
• Risk Identification & Mitigation: Practice articulating how you would identify potential design risks early in a project and what steps you would take to mitigate them.
• Value Engineering Proposal: Be ready to walk through a hypothetical value engineering proposal, explaining the rationale, potential benefits, and how you would present it to stakeholders.
• Contractual Dispute Resolution: Prepare to discuss how you would handle a situation where a subcontractor's design submission is causing delays or contractual issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role like this will be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on practical experience and problem-solving. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates a strategic and operational approach to design management is essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• BIM Software: Autodesk Revit, Navisworks (for coordination and clash detection), potentially others like ArchiCAD.
• CAD Software: AutoCAD, enabling detailed drawing and annotation.
• Project Management Platforms: Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Procore, or similar, for scheduling, task management, and progress tracking.
• Document Management Systems (DMS): Aconex, SharePoint, or proprietary systems for organizing, storing, and distributing project documentation in compliance with IMS requirements.
• Collaboration Tools: Microsoft Teams, Slack, for internal and external communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Dashboards: Internal or custom-built dashboards for tracking design progress, RFI status, approval timelines, and risk registers.
• Data Analysis Tools: Microsoft Excel for data manipulation and basic analysis; potentially more advanced tools if integrated with other project systems.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design information integrates with wider project commercial and procurement systems is key. Familiarity with ERP systems like SAP or Oracle, if used by Al Futtaim, would be beneficial for understanding broader financial and operational flows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in BIM software, particularly Revit and Navisworks for coordination, is paramount. Experience with established project management and document management systems used in large construction firms is also critical for effective operations and compliance.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design solutions that meet or exceed project specifications and client expectations.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where open communication and mutual support between design disciplines and other project departments are paramount.
• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with stakeholders, ensuring transparency in design processes and contractual matters.
• Customer Focus: Understanding and prioritizing client needs and delivering designs that align with their vision and operational requirements.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Project Delivery: Encouraging a collaborative approach where design is seen as an integral part of the overall project delivery, working closely with construction operations from the outset.
• Proactive Communication: Emphasizing regular, clear, and concise communication to resolve issues promptly and ensure alignment across all project teams.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where lessons learned from design phases are shared and applied to future projects, driving continuous improvement in operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated values of Respect, Excellence, Collaboration, and Integrity by the Al-Futtaim Group are likely reflected in the operational culture of its contracting division, underscoring the importance of teamwork and ethical conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Coordination: Managing design interfaces and coordination across multiple, highly specialized disciplines (e.g., MEP, structural, architectural, IT infrastructure) on large-scale projects.
• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse and sometimes conflicting requirements of clients, consultants, regulatory bodies, and internal operational teams.
• Programmatic Pressures: Meeting aggressive project schedules while ensuring design quality and compliance, often requiring rapid problem-solving and decision-making.
• Technological Adoption: Staying abreast of and effectively implementing new design technologies, such as advanced BIM features or integrated project delivery platforms.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM & Digital Construction: Opportunities to gain expertise in emerging digital construction technologies and advanced BIM applications.
• Project Leadership: Development of skills in leading larger teams, managing multi-disciplinary project portfolios, and strategic project planning.
• Contract & Commercial Management: Deeper understanding of construction contracts, claims management, and commercial negotiations within the GCC context.
• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional certifications in engineering, architecture, or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges inherent in large-scale construction projects, offering substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development in a demanding yet rewarding environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Management Philosophy: Be prepared to articulate your overall philosophy and approach to managing the design process for large construction projects, emphasizing your operational perspective.
• Coordination Methodology: Describe your systematic approach to ensuring design coordination between different disciplines (e.g., MEP, Structural, Architectural) and how you address clashes and discrepancies.
• Risk Management in Design: Explain how you identify and mitigate design-related risks throughout the project lifecycle, providing specific examples of risks you have encountered and managed.
• Value Engineering Process: Walk through your process for identifying, evaluating, and implementing value engineering proposals, including how you would present them to stakeholders for approval.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Al-Futtaim Knowledge: Demonstrate an understanding of Al-Futtaim Group's history, its diverse business operations, and its commitment to values like excellence and collaboration.
• UAE Construction Market: Discuss your understanding of the construction landscape in the UAE, including key players, regulatory environments, and common challenges.
• Team Leadership Style: Describe your approach to leading and motivating a diverse team of design professionals. How do you foster collaboration and ensure accountability?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each project presented, highlight the specific challenges you faced and the direct impact of your actions on project outcomes (schedule, cost, quality, safety).
• Process Demonstration: Clearly explain the processes you used – your DMP, coordination workflows, risk assessment methods – rather than just listing tasks.
• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, flowcharts, or anonymized drawings to illustrate complex processes or design solutions.
• Quantifiable Results: Whenever possible, present data and metrics to support your claims.
• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your decision-making, problem-solving abilities, and how you handle difficult stakeholders or unforeseen issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also leadership, strategic thinking, and a strong operational understanding of project delivery in the construction industry. A compelling portfolio presentation is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form via the provided link on the Al-Futtaim careers portal (https://www.afuturewithus.com/).
• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 15-20 years of construction industry experience, specifically with Tier 1 contractors in the GCC/UAE, and emphasizes your design management, BIM, leadership, and risk analysis skills. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant case studies that showcase your expertise in managing complex design processes, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, mitigating risks, and achieving project objectives.
• Research Al-Futtaim Contracting: Familiarize yourself with the company's recent projects, values, and its position within the broader Al-Futtaim Group. Understand their operational focus and market presence.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral and situational questions related to design management, leadership, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially regarding salary and specific benefits, should be verified directly with Al Futtaim Contracting during the interview process before making any application decisions.